Rydon to build new visitor centre for Clifton Suspension Bridge


January 2014

A new Heritage and Learning Centre is to be created for the Clifton Suspension Bridge, marking the 150th anniversary of Brunel’s world-famous river crossing.

Rydon has been appointed as the contractor to deliver the project, not long after it handed over the refurbishment of another of Brunel’s Bristol icons, the Grade 1 Listed Engine Shed, which has now been transformed into a business and innovation centre for fast-growing technology firms. 

The new buildings, designed by Bristol-based Alec French Architects, will be located on the Leigh Woods side of the Bridge. The visitor centre will sit next to new offices for the Bridge Master and his staff, and will replace a temporary structure to provide much improved visitor facilities.

It will be built to incorporate an existing stone wall and will include a render finish and copper fin detailing. The two-storey building will incorporate a pavilion featuring a large interior exhibition space.

Paul Barber, South West Regional Director, Rydon Construction commented:
“Having recently delivered a careful refurbishment to Brunel’s Engine Shed, we are very proud to now be involved in a significant chapter of another iconic Bristol location. We’re really looking forward to working alongside the trustees of the Clifton Suspension Bridge over the coming months to bring to life a great new addition to Bristol’s tourist industry.”

The Heritage and Learning Centre will be opened in time to celebrate the 150th anniversary of the opening of the Clifton Suspension Bridge on 8th December 2014. It is part-funded by the Heritage Lottery Fund, and forms part of a larger injection of investment to modernise the Bridge’s facilities and support its long-term maintenance and preservation.

The Grade 1 Listed Clifton Suspension Bridge spans the Avon Gorge and the River Avon. Work on the structure began in 1831, first opening for use in 1864.  

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