Introduction

The Floodable Bridge Ter in Manlleu River, crafted by Sau Taller d’Arquitectura, serves as a pivotal connector for leisure, culture, sports, and education activities around the Ter riverbed in Manlleu, Spain. This project is guided by three fundamental strategies aimed at enhancing the relationship between the river and the urban landscape.

Territorial Logic: Promoting Riverbeds

The project seeks to reclaim the vitality of riverbeds as spaces of landscape significance. Historically, riverbeds have thrived as ecotones, blending the ecosystems of the river and its surroundings. However, urbanization has led to neglect, fragmenting these areas. By reintroducing activities and blurring the boundary between the river and the city, the project aims to enrich these spaces, fostering a sense of belonging and encouraging their preservation.

Urban Strategy: Creating a Green Axis

Manlleu’s urban fabric has often turned away from the river despite its historical significance in sustaining agricultural and industrial activities. To counter this trend, the project proposes a new leisure-cultural axis aligned with the river. Stretching from the Renfe Station to the Ter Museum, this axis revitalizes the riverside area, offering opportunities for recreation, cultural engagement, and sports activities. By bridging the gap between the two riverbanks, the project unlocks 30,000 m² of additional public space, enriching the city’s recreational offerings.

Technical Solutions: Constructive Logic

To facilitate movement between the riverbeds, the project employs a floodable passageway, minimizing environmental impact. The design comprises concrete platforms reminiscent of traditional river steps, strategically positioned to withstand hydraulic forces. Gaps between platforms improve hydraulic efficiency during periods of high water flow, while removable metal rails ensure accessibility and ease of maintenance. This approach not only enhances connectivity but also immerses pedestrians in the river ecosystem, fostering a deeper appreciation for the natural environment.

Evolution Over Time

As seasons change and water levels fluctuate, the floodable bridge will undergo a transformation, reflecting the dynamic nature of the river. Concrete surfaces will weather, bearing the marks of flood events, while metal elements will develop a patina from exposure to sunlight. This evolution mirrors the adaptation of the riverbed itself, blurring the line between urban and fluvial ecosystems and creating an ecotone rich in biodiversity and cultural significance.

The Floodable Bridge Ter in Manlleu River stands as a testament to innovative design and sustainable urban planning, enriching the cityscape while fostering a deeper connection with nature.