Designs for a new road bridge over the Thames in east London were revealed on Monday. The proposed bridge between Beckton and Thamesmead would improve cross river connections in a part of London where access across the water is limited.

Engineering consultant Arup has teamed up with architect HOK to come up with the designs and their plan is backed by the London Chamber of Commerce & Industry.

The bridge has been designed to provide a clear passage for ships and would include a segregated cycle path.

Business leaders, residents and commuters are urged to support the 'Bridge East London' campaign. London Chamber’s chief executive Colin Stanbridge pointed out that nearly half of London's population lives east of Tower Bridge, yet they are served by only two fixed road river crossings.

“It is an area with huge amounts of potential and while the Olympics acted as a crucible for creativity and dynamism in the area, its future growth is being held back by this gap in transport infrastructure,” he said.

"New road river crossings linking east and South East London over the Thames will bring new jobs and homes to an area of the capital that has been overlooked for too long."

Arup director Stephanos Samaras added: "London's infrastructure is already under pressure. As the city's population continues to grow it is more important than ever that we provide better accessibility and connectivity to integrate communities.”

Photo courtesy of HOK & Arup

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