Here are some facts about the Millennium Bridge in London.
- The Millennium Bridge crosses the River Tames in London, linking the City of London to Bankside and the Tate Modern gallery. It opened in 2000, after taking two years to build.
- It has a span of 144 metres and is 4 metres wide.
- The 8 cables supporting the walkway allow for 5,000 people to be on the bridge safely at the same time.
- The Millennium Bridge was the first new bridge over the Thames since Tower Bridge was built in 1894. There are over 200 bridges that cross the Thames, and 27 tunnels.
- Sculptor Anthony Caro and architect Norman Foster designed the bridge’s innovative look. The bridge is owned and operated by a charitable trust, Bridge House Estates.
- The bridge was nicknamed the ‘wobbly bridge’ after it opened, as pedestrians discovered it swayed when walked across. It was closed until 2002, so improvements could be made.
- Bridges wobbling or vibrating can be a common problem. Albert Bridge, which also crosses the Thames, has a sign warning marching groups of soldiers to break step when crossing.
- The Millennium Bridge has featured in several films since it opened. It is attacked and collapses into the River Thames in the 2009 film, Harry Potter and the Half Blood Prince.
- Because the Millennium Bridge is in an old area of London, archaeological excavations took place along the river bank before it was built. The remains of several buildings from the Middle Ages were excavated.
- There are several other Millennium Bridges in the UK and around the world. In Britain, Glasgow, York, Manchester, Lancaster and Gateshead all have bridges of the same name.
- One of the best views of St. Paul’s Cathedral is enjoyed from on the bridge. Today, many views of the cathedral are protected, meaning that tall buildings can’t be built to spoil the view.
