Council chairman opens new footbridge in Abingdon

Yesterday (Thursday 21st August) at 12.45pm, the Chairman of the Vale of White Horse District Council, Councillor Alison Rooke officially opened a brand new public footbridge in Abingdon.

The new bridge crosses the Abbey Stream, linking a development of new homes from housebuilder Barratt Mercia with the Abbey Grounds. A joint venture between Barratt Mercia and the District Council, it forms a stunning feature for the new homes development called The Riverside Collection and provides residents and local people with a direct route to the Abbey Meadows Park and Grounds.

Named the Abingdon Sword Bridge, it has been designed as a piece of public art with the intention of making something functional, attractive and engaging. Local artist Richard Farrington was commissioned to design the 10 bronze panels that are located on the side of the bridge, depicting images found on the famous silver and steel Anglo Saxon Abingdon Sword which was discovered in the river in 1824 and is currently on display in the Treasures exhibition at the Ashmoleon Museum in Oxford.

Pupils from St Edmunds Catholic Primary School recently visited the bridge and participated in a workshop with Richard to learn more about the legend that surrounds the sword.

Andy Peters, Barratt's Managing Director said, "We are delighted to welcome the Chairman of the Vale of White Horse District Council today to officially open this exciting new footbridge in Abingdon.

"With such wonderful scenery and facilities on The Riverside Collection's doorstep, it was important to be able to offer residents a quick and safe way to get to the Abbey Grounds. Not only has the bridge improved access to the park, but it has also contributed to the District Council's Public Art policy and we are very please to have been able to involve the community with this project."

The Riverside Collection comprises one- and two-bedroom apartments and three-bedroom houses. Prices start from £163,400 with many incentives to help you purchase. For more information, log on to Barratthomes.co.uk/theriversidecollection.