Prins Clausbrug - future location Wantij
Prins Claus bridge Dordrecht
Project
Prins Claus bridge Dordrecht
Location
Dordrecht
Client
municipality of Dordrecht
Year design
2015 (concept)
In cooperation with
dJGA architecten, IMD raadgevende ingenieurs.

An iconic bridge
In 2015, the municipality of Dordrecht started a competition for the concept development of a new slow traffic bridge over the Wantij near Dordrecht. Important preconditions were the future iconic value, the system to open the bridge and the layout of the public areas around the bridge heads. The jury appreciated the image that was evoked, but rejected the proposed sliding principle. The competition was won by Rene van Zuuk architects.

In the concept of Blom&Moors and dJGA, the bridge is positioned slightly diagonally across the water, just as a fair straight line. The bridge is executed as a flat double sliding bridge. Two parts slide in and out from the middle simultaneously along the longitudinal axis. The sliding system is not placed underneath the bridge, but is included in the balustrades. By specializing the functional movement of opening and closing by means of moving images, the bridge continues to fascinate in its use. Time and again an intriguing spectacle.

The moving image is created by the principle of a grid (on the moving bridge parts) that slides over a stationary image (on the fixed bridge sections), also known as an 'animated optical illusion'. The images that are applied are inspired by the rich cultural history of Dordrecht.

Where the bridge touches the banks
Bridge, abutments and surrounding public space are designed as a whole. At the side of the Noorderhoofd the abutment rests on the edge of the quay and connects the bridge as directly as possible to the routes to downtown and the train station. The urban square is an extension of the city center as well as access to the water bus stop. Robust pavement and frameworks and a sturdy series of objects such as seating furniture, bollards and light poles accompany the 'walk around the Wantij'.

At the side of the Stadswerven, a green bank offers a more landscaped space in which the land head is integrated playfully. Together with the beach, sitting edges, terrace space and planting, this space invites you to exercise, recreate and stay. Only when the tide is low you can walk underneath the bridge. Here the tidal effect of the Wantij is optimally experienced.