The Palm unveils 'Spectacular Design' for main bridge on The Palm, Jumeirah

"The Palm has been conceived and built on one premise - to create the Eighth Wonder of the World", said Sultan Ahmed Bin Sulayem, Chairman for Nakheel. "The scale and vision of this project has captured the imagination of everyone associated with it and this is underlined once again by the spectacular design for the main bridge that we are unveiling today. The bridge is clearly a key element in The Palm, as it is where residents and visitors alike make initial contact with the development. The winning design is a harmonious architectural composition, balancing aesthetic appeal with function and structure".

From the mainland, the bridge will begin with ten lanes (five in each direction), but once over the water it will split into two bridges of five lanes each.

The design incorporates reinforced concrete, steel space frames and textured finishes. The sail like space frames will be 25 metre high and flank the bridge on both sides. Statues of the seven ancient wonders of the world have also been integrated into the design, as has dynamic lighting to bring the bridge to life after dark.

Construction of the bridge has already begun and is scheduled for completion towards the end of 2004. The temporary crossing that is currently in place is expected to be removed when The Palm, Jumeirah opens.

The concept and detail designers for the bridge are H2L2 Architects of New York who are working in collaboration with structural design consultants Leonhardt, Andra and Partner of Germany. In total eight designs were tendered. The main contractor is Belhassa Six.

H2L2 Architects have also be involved in the design of many prominent bridges over the years including the likes of the East Span of the San Francisco and Oakland Bay Bridge and The Benjamin Franklin Bridge in Philadelphia.

Spanning five kilometres in length and width, The Palm, Jumeirah is already considered one of the world's most unique island destinations. Positioned to be a tranquil haven offering serenity and exclusivity, the spectacular homes, waterfront resorts, boutique hotels, shopping, spas, marinas, canals and more will all combine together to provide the most luxurious retreat destination.