A BRIDGE that links Wokingham borough with neighbouring Henley is ready to shine, thanks to a donation from a law firm with links to the town.
It is the first river crossing over the Thames outside of London, and will now set to be lit up thanks to the Make Henley Shine project.
Supporters include the Leander Club, Phyllis Court Club and Blandy & Blandy Solicitors, which has branches in Henley and Reading, have all made substantial donations.
Henley Town Council will also donate once planning permission has been granted by South Oxfordshire District Council and Wokingham Borough Council.
The sponsors will have their names and logos on the plaques which will be installed on either side of the bridge, subject to planning permission.
Members and guests of Leander and Phyllis Court Clubs will be able to enjoy the bridge lights at their riverside locations, whilst Blandy & Blandy’s offices at 24 Thameside also overlook the site.
General manager at Leander Club, Alastair Heathcote said: “Henley’s riverside is a jewel in our town and has so much potential to enrich the lives of our community as well as visitors.
“Make Henley Shine is a visionary project to do exactly that – and create a wonderful experience for people living in Henley and visitors to enjoy.”
Blandy & Blandy has offered its legal services to set up the project as a charity as well as pledging a donation towards the project.
The charity will work with a range of stakeholders, residents, schools, communities and special interest groups to develop a broad programme of public events and activities for people of all ages around the river.
Nick Burrows, Partner and Chairman of Blandy & Blandy, said: “We are delighted to be working with the Make Henley Shine team and to be supporting this landmark project, including advising on the formation of the charity.
“Henley Bridge dates back to the late 18th Century and nearly as far as our own history in the town.
“We look forward to seeing residents and visitors hopefully enjoying the illuminations in the years to come.”
And Chris Hogan, CEO, Phyllis Court Club, said: “Enjoying the view of Henley Bridge from Phyllis Court is fundamental to the life and fabric of the Club.
“This initiative to focus the viewer on such an iconic part of Henley town can only be applauded and will enhance hugely the reputation, image and ambiance of Henley to residents and visitors alike.
“I have no doubt all 3,500 members of Phyllis Court and their guests will be thrilled at the prospect of this great visual enhancement.”
The Make Henley Shine project will be a low energy sustainable lighting system made up of 460 LED light nodes that follow the line of each arch and balustrade. The design will highlight the architectural detail of the Grade I-listed bridge that greets visitors to the town.
The planning applications are due to be submitted in the summer.
Daniel Bausor, chairman of Make Henley Shine, said: “We are honoured to receive the sponsorship and financial support from Leander, Phyllis Court and Blandy & Blandy who share our vision on this exciting community arts project to illuminate Henley Bridge sustainably.
“We are looking for further donations to make this wonderful light installation a reality and welcome other public, private organisations and individuals to get be part of it.”
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