Walkers passing through Carleon Cove on the Lizard are in for a treat, thanks to the completion of a stunning new footbridge that carries the South West Coast Path over the Poltesco River.
The bridge has been designed to reflect the curved lines of a boat, and is made in oak and larch, with stainless steel tension wires.
We knew the old bridge was near the end of its life, so we decided to take the opportunity to do something different, to build a bridge that really did justice to this lovely place. We wanted a bridge that encouraged people to stop and linger. Most importantly, it had to be a good place to play Pooh sticks as that’s always a favourite with the many school groups we bring here!
The bridge is nestled within sycamores, just behind the beach and the ruins of a Victorian serpentine stoneware factory, now reclaimed by nature.
The bridge was designed by local architect Matthew Robinson and constructed by Ben Harris of River Oak. Working together with Matt we wanted to incorporate something of the location, it's landscape and history, in the design, hence the boat inspired curves and local stone finials. Poltesco was once the base for a small seine netting fleet, so boats and stone are at the heart of the cove’s history.
Building it has been quite a challenge, not least because every component had to be small enough to carry in by hand down the path! The whole thing was made in Ben's workshop, before being dismantled, transported to site and then put back together like a giant 3D jigsaw.
I’m sure the many walkers out on the coast path will appreciate this fantastic new bridge. We would like to thank Natural England for their generous grant towards this project, and the South West Coast Path team for their support.
Why not pay the new bridge a visit, Pooh sticks optional!
Rachel
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