32-long Cirkelbroen will cost £4m and is inspired by local sailing history

Danish-Icelandic artist Olafur Eliasson has designed a new bridge across the Christianshavns Kanal in Copenhagen.

The 32m-long Cirkelbroen - which translates as the circle bridge - will create a winding path across the canal. It will cost about 34m kroners (£4m) and is expected to be completed in 2012.

Based on Christianshavn's history, Eliasson used the sailing ship as his visual starting point. Cirkelbroen consists of five staggered circular platforms of various sizes, each with their own 'mast'.

Eliasson said: “It is my hope that people will stay on the bridge, use the bridge as a public square. In contrast to the long, straight pier, the winding bridge will reduce speed, turn focus. Rather than offering the fastest possible passage across the canal, the bridge will create small variations in the way we see the city and open for a renegotiation of public space”.

The Nordea Foundation, a charity that supports activities that promote healthy living, is the developer and is building the bridge as a gift to the Municipality of Copenhagen.

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