The new and moveable pedestrian and cycle bridge across the Westerdoksluis forms the link between the west part of city centre (waterfront along the IJ) and the new developed Westerdokseiland. This area consist of several islands and peninsula, where the broad and raised rail way track dominates. In contrast to all the abundance of surrounding elements the bridge has a sober and simple character. The independeness/autonomous of the bridge is accentuated by a the subtle asymmetric placement of the two bridge decks.
The bridge is 48 meter long and 5 meter wide and has two bearings in the water. These bearings are placed asymmetrical in relation to the arch of the bridge. According to the schedule of requirements the bridge has a single draw (drawbridge) of 16 meter long. To realize this length the bridge is made from a light material, aluminum. The bridge deck that opens is pivoted and hangs in vertical position just above the water. So there is no need for a bascule basement. The counterweight and the hydraulic pumps are due to the light material of the moveable draw of minor dimensions and were placed under the bridge deck.
Two slightly bent wooden walls in the water forms the collide protection. In these walls are the counter form of the pivoted part cut out so that when the bridge opens the pivoted bridge deck fills (falls into) the wall. The necessary lightning, navigation signals and camera’s are incorporated in the wooden walls.
The bridge is constructed and furnished with the light material aluminum. The lighting on the bridge is placed under the balustrade and shines through the perforated aluminum panels.
