moxon's new granite and steel bridge in rural scotland stands alongside historic crossing

Gairnshiel Jubilee Bridge by Moxon Architects hovers above glen

Moxon Architects, in collaboration with civil and structural engineers Arcadis, completes the Gairnshiel Jubilee Bridge in Aberdeenshire, Scotland, named in honor of Queen Elizabeth II’s Platinum Jubilee. The new bridge diverts highway traffic from the historic 1749 Gairnshiel Bridge, preserving it and providing a vital link for north-south travel.

The structure, featuring two traffic lanes, addresses the challenges posed by the original bridge’s geometry and narrow width. It eliminates the need for detours caused by frequent structural damage. Designed with consideration for flood levels, highway alignment, and the glen’s natural formation, the new bridge is a contemporary interpretation of the 18th-century structure. The slender-profile design, with granite parapets and weathering steel, complements the adjacent historic bridge while maintaining a respectful distance.

all images by Simon Kennedy

slender-profile design complements the adjacent historic bridge

The completion marks a significant infrastructure project for Aberdeenshire Council, improving journey times and preserving the cultural and historical significance of the area. The new bridge provides a dedicated route for vehicles, allowing the 18th-century bridge to be reserved for pedestrians, cyclists, and equestrians. The design team at Moxon Architects engaged in a process that involved years of advocacy with the local community and heritage bodies to ensure a sensitive approach to the site’s unique context. The bridge was formally opened to the public by His Majesty The King on Thursday 05 October 2023.

the new bridge diverts highway traffic from the historic 1749 Gairnshiel Bridge

the construction, featuring two traffic lanes, addresses the challenges posed by the original bridge’s narrow width

the structure is designed with consideration for flood levels, highway alignment, and the glen’s natural formation

the slender-profile design, with granite parapets and weathering steel, complements the adjacent historic bridge

the new crossing, parallel to the 1749 Gairnshiel Bridge, is suitable for modern-day traffic

project info:

name: Gairnshiel Jubilee Bridge
architect: Moxon Architects | @moxonarchitects

location: Aberdeenshire, Scotland, UK

photography: Simon Kennedy | @_simonkennedy

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edited by: christina vergopoulou | designboom