David Oluwale Memorial Bridge

The Light Lab fabricated and installed bespoke Spectraglass panels to the David Oluwale Memorial Bridge; a striking new structure across the River Aire in Leeds.

The project is a partnership between the David Oluwale Memorial Association (DOMA) and Leeds City Council, with our specialist team brought onboard by BAM Nuttall & Mott Macdonald, to manufacture and install the bespoke low iron, toughened Spectraglass panels, with SGP laminate structure inter-layer. The bridge is approximately 28 metres long, with each of the 16 panels measuring 1.5m ; making it one of our largest external Spectraglass projects to date. Each of the 16 Spectraglass panels feature a bespoke screen print design , to create the desired design intent of an owl flying across the bridge This is achieved by using high output SPI LEDs, controllable at 125mm increments to create the movement of the light and therefore the flight of the owl, with all lighting programming by long term collaborators Architainment.

The bridge, which officially launched on 26th January 2023, is dedicated to the memory of David Oluwale, who tragically died in the river in 1969 after being racially harassed and targeted because of his homelessness and mental health issues. This makes the bridge an incredibly important piece of architecture, which will serve as a lasting reminder and commitment to equality in the city and beyond.

We are delighted with the finished result and it has been a honour to be involved in such an important piece of architecture.

Now shortlisted in DARC Awards 2023 in the ‘Structures-High Budget’ category.

Leeds City Council press release.