Rolling over the waves
The industrial dock, imbued with the rough and robust energy emitted by the coal gas factory, now attracts artists who follow the vigor of that time, dreaming of a hopeful new future. Located on the banks of the River Lea in East London, Cody Dock is undergoing a transformation into an oasis where creativity and production spring forth from abandoned ruins.
Amidst buildings of various hues lining the riverbank stands a distinctive footbridge, reminiscent of the atmosphere of the old industrial dock, as if rusty factory parts have been repurposed.
How to create an unforgettable bridge that people stop and take notice of? After pondering various alternatives such as raising, swinging, sliding, folding, or tilting the bridge, the architect finally proposed a rolling bridge. Thus, the Cody Dock Rolling Bridge, as the name suggests, connects disjointed riverbanks by rolling along the waterway, linking the river and the jetty. It plays a monumental role in rejuvenating and restoring the entire dock from key positions guarding two thresholds.
Square-toothed portals at either end roll along wave-shaped rails, while counterweights mounted on each portal’s top ensure symmetry of the bridge deck. The bridge railing is designed to fold flat onto the deck when the bridge flips 180 degrees, accounting for a 1-meter ventilation passage needed for vessels passing below. Thanks to meticulous design, everything operates manually without the use of motors or electricity, making it a visually fascinating sight as the 13-ton heavy structure operates efficiently, symbolizing a creative collective.
Crafted from weathered steel and oak, the bridge adopts a restrained posture when fixed but captivates the audience with a lively and cheerful sequence once in motion. Contributing to a vibrant and friendly atmosphere, it adds energy to the community-led regeneration project forged by residents, volunteers, and enterprises.
Project: Cody Dock Rolling Bridge / Location: E16 4TL London, England / Architect: Thomas Randall-Page / Structural engineer: Price & Myers / Mechanical engineer: Eadon Consulting / Contractor: Cake Industries, Charlie Whinney Studio / Client: The National Lottery Heritage Fund / Weight: 13t / Materials: weathering steel, oak / Completion: 2022 / Photograph: ©Guy Archard (courtesy of the architect); ©Jim Stephenson (courtesy of the architect)
