SYMPOSIUM A New Harbour Crossing
Lille Langebro in Copenhagen by Simon Fryer
1 Completed bridge in Copenhagen © Buro Happold
The Lille Langebro is a major new pedestrian and cycle bridge over the harbour in Copenhagen. The bridge forms a sleek, low level crossing that curves in plan as well as elevation. The superstructure consists of fabricated steel box sections of complex geometry and includes two balanced double cantilever spans on slew bearings which rotate to allow the passage of large ships. The rotating spans are fixed together in the closed position by an arrangement of proprietary mechanical components which form an innovative structural moment connection at mid-span. With a cost of DKK 90 M the bridge delivers excellent value for money in comparison to other similar crossings around the world. It enhances Copenhagen’s worldwide reputation as one of the best cities for cyclists and has quickly established itself as a popular new landmark.
1 Introduction The Langebro bascule bridge which was constructed in 1954 is one of only two vehicular bridges crossing the harbour in the centre of Copenhagen. It carries traffic between the busy Hans Christian Andersen Boulevard and Amagerside Amager Boulevard and is not convenient for non-motorised users as it has narrow footways and no dedicated cycleways. In 2014, client Realdania announced an international design competition for a combined pedestrian and cycle bridge
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2 Bridge location plan © Wilkinson Eyre
to be placed immediately north of the Langebro adjacent to their Blox mixeduse development. A team of designers comprising Buro Happold (engineers), Wilkinson Eyre (architects) and Eadon Consulting (specialist mechanical engineers) submitted the winning entry, which was selected in 2015. This new bridge was later to be christened the »Lille Langebro« in deference to its neighbour following a public vote.
