THE bridge that links Media City to Trafford has won an award for the way it has been designed.

Media City Footbridge was handed the Structural Awards 2011 Pedestrian Bridges prize by the Institution of Structural Engineers.

The structure is a cable swing bridge that provides pedestrian access over the Manchester Ship Canal into the heart of the new Media City development.

The bridge also addresses anticipated future development at Trafford Wharf and, in conjunction with the existing Lowry Bridge, enhances pedestrian links for the area as a whole.

Awards judge Professor Roger Plank said: “A graceful and well-engineered bridge that displays structural flair in the concept and the details; a delightful testament to the art of structural engineering.”

Some 340 guests attended the Structural Awards, which took place on Friday (November 18) at the Marriott Hotel, Grosvenor Square, in London.