Network Rail has unveiled images of the proposed new footbridge at North Sheen which will be going on display to the public next week before being submitted to the Richmond Council for final planning approval.

The footbridge – ‘Tree Top Walkway by Stephen Speak – was selected as the winner of a competition hosted by Zak Goldsmith MP and Richmond councillors to come up with an alternative design to the standard railway footbridge. Eight designs were judged to be feasible by Network Rail and they were presented, and voted on, at the public meeting.

The bridge design concept, which engineers have now converted into a detailed and practical scheme, will be on display at the Holy Trinity School (between 1pm and 3pm) and Calvert Court, Manor Park, Richmond, Surrey TW9 1XY (between 10am and 12pm) on 10 February 2012.

Richard O’Brien, Network Rail’s route managing director for Wessex, said: “The proposed new bridge will allow pedestrians to cross the railway while the Manor Road level crossing barriers are down. The community has put a lot of effort into the design process and played an active role in choosing the winner. We urge them to support the planning application so we can make the design a reality.”

Cllr Katharine Harborne, North Richmond Ward, added: “I am delighted with this revised design it is what residents voted for a well designed low impact bridge - something we can all be proud of for years to come. I can't thank Network Rail enough for really working with us and listening to our community.”