The London Festival of Architecture (LFA) and Wandsworth Council are excited to announce the ‘Transforming Falcon Road Bridge’ design competition. This initiative aims to revitalise and renew Falcon Road Bridge and the route running beneath, turning it into a vibrant, artistic space. Architects, designers, and artists are invited to submit their innovative proposals by September 12, 2024, for a chance to rejuvenate this essential route for pedestrians, cyclists, and vehicles.
This competition offers a unique opportunity to reimagine the 100-metre-long tunnel beneath Falcon Road Bridge, enhancing the public realm and improving the overall experience for the local community. Participants are challenged to create large-scale artistic interventions that address environmental challenges while celebrating local character and heritage.
The installation will coincide with Wandsworth’s year as the Mayor of London’s Borough of Culture 2025, seamlessly integrating into the borough’s extensive cultural programming. The year will showcase Wandsworth’s vibrant and diverse communities and arts and cultural offer. This installation aims to reflect Wandsworth’s rich heritage and vibrant community, particularly enhancing the area around Clapham Junction Station.
The road under Falcon Road Bridge is a critical route connecting Battersea and the river to Balham and Tooting to the south, running under Clapham Junction Station—one of London’s busiest transport hubs. Despite its significance, the bridge currently serves as an unwelcoming and disjointed space within the community. The project aims to create a pleasant and joyful environment for all users, enhance safety and accessibility, develop a visually striking intervention that reflects local diversity, and promote sustainable travel in the area.
Design proposals can include elements such as re-cladding, lighting, public art, wayfinding, greening, and footpath treatments. Practical considerations such as durability, sustainability, and ease of maintenance are essential. Community engagement is crucial for the success of this project. Design teams must consult with local community groups, particularly within the neighbouring Winstanley and York Road estates, to ensure inclusivity and responsiveness to local needs. Designs must also be practical and feasible within budget constraints, withstand all weather conditions, and serve the community for the foreseeable future.
This competition follows the successful ‘Happy Street’ project by Yinka Ilori, a previous LFA competition with Wandsworth Council in 2019 which saw the transformation of Thessaly Road Bridge in Battersea into a welcoming public space.
The judging panel will be announced soon, consisting of a Wandsworth Council Representative, a Network Rail Representative, a Local Youth Representative and an Artist.
Simon Hogg, Leader of Wandsworth Council said: “The gloomy and unwelcoming Falcon Road bridge cuts right through the middle of Clapham Junction’s thriving shopping, residential and transport area. Improvements here are long overdue, so as part of our decade of renewal we’re excited to use funds we’ve collected from local property developers to finally get the bridge transformed into a striking landmark as well as a better and safer route for everyone who uses it.”
Rosa Rogina, Director at London Festival of Architecture said: “We are thrilled to continue our long-standing partnership with Wandsworth Council. This initiative perfectly aligns with the London Festival of Architecture’s mission to celebrate both the ordinary and extraordinary elements of our city. By focusing on overlooked everyday spaces, we aim to demonstrate the immense value of good design in enhancing people’s daily experiences. This project is an exciting opportunity to bring together architecture, design, and transport infrastructure in a manner that is inclusive and reflective of the local community.”
The submission deadline is September 12, 2024. Up to six teams will be shortlisted and awarded an honorarium of £1,500 + VAT to develop their design proposals. Shortlisted entries will be displayed in early November, allowing the local community to participate in a public vote. The winning team will be confirmed in December 2024, with the final design to be installed by the end of September 2025.
Interested applicants are invited to submit their expressions of interest by Thursday 12 September, 12pm
