The first completed component of the Canal Quarter masterplan is a pedestrian and cycle bridge across the Caldon Canal.
The underside of the 22m clear span is faceted and illuminated to create a visual spectacle for both boat users and pedestrians on the canal bank and define a place where people can rest or gather.
Subtly, when the bridge is viewed from below, the brick pier on the north side of the canal appears to support one end, but its south end looks as though it is either fixed to the side of the pier adjacent or fully cantilever.
Although the structural deck is not directly expressed on the top surface of the bridge, the configuration of block pavers shows NORD’s fascination with pattern making that has a resonance with Stoke-on-Trent’s historically significant ceramic industry and in particular is inspired by ceramic designs used by Thomas Minton in the late 19th century – giving strong links with the history of the local community.