Silver Jubilee Bridge, Runcorn

All projectsSilver Jubilee Bridge, Runcorn

ENLIGHTENING EMOTIONS

Originally opened in 1961, the Silver Jubilee Bridge is one of the largest steel arch bridges in the UK. Acquiring its official name in honour of the Queen's Silver Jubilee, the bridge is recorded in the National Heritage List for England as a Grade II building. This through arch bridge, featuring a main arch span of 330 m (361 yards), crosses the River Mersey and the Manchester Ship Canal between Runcorn and Widnes in Halton, England.

As part of the recent broader maintenance and regeneration contract between Balvac and Halton Borough Council, Studiotech – one of the most recognised brands for delivering specialist architectural lighting and dynamic control solutions in the UK – was responsible for implementing a new dynamic architectural illumination under a lighting design conceived by Arup. Arup's aims for the project were to enhance the historic and structural features of the bridge, minimizing obtrusive light, and strengthening the timeless identity of this remarkable structure in contrast to the modern Mersey Gateway Bridge upstream.

Year

2024

Lighting design

Arup

Product specification and installation

Studiotech

Pictures

Steve Samosa Photography

Studiotech translated Arup’s concept into a deliverable solution through a comprehensive service package, including engineering design, electrical design, DMX system design, bespoke fixture mounting bracket design and manufacture, supply, installation, as well as control and programming. "A key aspect of the engineering design included accommodating the listed status of the bridge as we were unable to drill or mechanically fix to the Grade II listed structure. To overcome this challenge, we devised a clamping mechanism for each bracket, containment, and cabling, specifically designed to prevent any damage to the historic bridge," stated Studiotech engineers.

Studiotech developed a custom solution, using Jupiter RGBW spotlights for the illumination of the architectural features, supported by a Traxon e:cue control system to create dynamic scenes. Delivered with an additional anti-saline treatment due to the proximity to the sea, the fixtures required a bespoke bracket system matching the aesthetics of the bridge. The brackets were designed and manufactured by Studiotech with every detail considered, including powder coating to match the RAL colour of the bridge itself. A total of 268 units of Jupiter RGBW were installed in the intersections of the steel truss of the bridge arches, cleverly concealed from sight due to their size, positioning, and finishing. The fully controllable, colour-changing LED system enables different light scenes to be pre-programmed, allowing illumination to be colour synchronised with the Mersey Gateway.

The illumination of this iconic structure has not only transformed it into a striking focal point within the community but also equipped it with the versatility to adapt to various occasions, from festive celebrations to awareness campaigns. This well-loved local landmark has become a defining feature, lending a unique identity to the area and enriching its visual character.

Credits:
Client: Balvac | Halton BC
Designer: Arup https://www.arup.com/services/technical-consulting/lighting-design
Product supply, installation, control, and programming: Studiotech https://studiotech.co.uk/
Pictures: Steve Samosa Photography @stevesamosaphotography

Products installed:
268 x JUPITER RGBW with narrow optics Grey RAL 9006 fitted with antisaline treatment