New bridge for Lee

FUNDING has been secured to build a foot and cycle bridge over the Lee Navigation in Bow.

This will be a suspended bridge, with work expecting to start in February, and has been prompted by the Olympic Park and new residential dwellings in the area.

Built in sections

The new 330 yards construction will be built in sections off-site and craned into position to create the suspended walkway. The path will extend out from the original towpath, over the water and onto the new bridge before re-joining the towpath.

The bridge and pathway will be made of steel and clad in timber. The suspended pathway will take pedestrians and cyclists under the A11 crossing.

North to South route

John Middleton, Head of Economic Development, London Thames Gateway Development Corporation, explains:

"This scheme will bridge the gap that walkers and cyclists face at Bromley by Bow providing a continuous north to south route. Getting the towpaths in active and popular use makes them safer and will encourage more people to take a second look at East London."

The £2.4 millions scheme is being funded by London Thames Gateway Development Corporation, British Waterways, the Olympic Delivery Authority, Transport for London, Design for London and Walk London.

British Waterways is managing the design and construction of the scheme.