Some information from Wilkinson Eyre:

‘This bridge is a small component of the University of Limerick’s ambitious plans for expansion to the north of the River Shannon, yet assumes a strategic importance that transcends its physical presence.

The design grows from the site, an organic response to a natural environment. A curvaceous deck sweeps across the Shannon and its embankments in five spans between strategically located support locations. The impression is both of a single crossing but also of a series of bridges jumping from pier to pier, like stepping-stones.

This span arrangement is a pragmatic response to the founding opportunities within the river, placing piers on the riverbanks, wooded islands and pool edges. The deck width ‘pulses’ along its length, offering wider platforms to be used as resting places or spaces for public art.

In November 2008, the Living Bridge at the University of Limerick has won an award for its structural design in this year’s IStrctE Awards. As winner of the category for Pedestrian Bridge, the bridge is the result of close collaboration between Wilkinson Eyre and structural engeneers Arup.
The judges commented:’ (…) This footbridge is an elegant and exiting demonstration of structural engineer’s art. The underslung catenary cables supporting the deck are spayled sideways, adding visual drama to the sweeping multi-span crossing…’.’

Client: University of Limerick
Architect: Wilkinson Eyre Architects
Structural Engineer: Arup, Dublin
Project Value: 12m Euros
Completed: November 2007

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