Nesciobrug is a 170 m span curved steel monocable suspension bridge, bifurcated at both ends, which carries the cycleway connecting Amsterdam to its new suburb of IJburg across the Amsterdam-Rhine canal. The constraints of the site impose a skew alignment with reversing curvature resulting in a main span of 170 m. The client recognised the opportunity for an exceptional bridge which would contribute to a positive perception of the whole IJburg development and they commissioned Wilkinson Eyre Architects for the project because they had undertaken many successful landmark bridge projects, including the South Quay bridge in London's docklands, which had a similar S-shaped alignment.

ECCS Awards for steel bridges Jury comments: The unusual and original shape of this cycle bridge, with a curved plan and double access at each side clearly demonstrates the versatility of steel to create a successful landmark.

Photos: DR