Accoya timber bridge at Bergen op Zoom

As part of the renovation of the oldest fortification at Bergen op Zoom and its canal, in West Brabant in the Netherlands, a cycle path, a footpath and three bridges were built, one of them entirely in Accoya wood. Designed by the practice RO&AD Architects, this bridge spans more than 20 metres: four large Accoya beams screwed into a U shape rest on concrete foundations. Accoya was the clear choice for its resistance to harsh climates and its ability not to cup or rot close to water, with a guarantee of 50 years above ground and 25 years in ground contact and fresh water. It is the third time RO&AD has chosen Accoya: specifying this wood from sustainably managed forests links the various structures of the Brabant canal, including the celebrated Ravelijnbrug, into a genuine family of projects.