London’s Thames to undergo dazzling transformation this summer

The River Thames, which twists through the heart of the UK capital, is due to undergo a dramatic night-time transformation, beginning in summer next year.

Illuminated River is a public art project funded by philanthropic sources and partnered with the Mayor of London, various cultural organisations and local councils. It will see all of Central London’s bridges, from Tower Bridge in the east to Albert Bridge four-and-half-miles away in the west, lit up with LED lights in a way that’s never been seen before.

Duncan Wilson, Chief Executive of Historic England, described the Thames as “London’s most ancient space”, and went on to say: “The bridges that span our river are some of the most precious historic sites we have. They are markers of place and beautiful responses to our practical need to navigate the city. The Illuminated River project is the next stage in the Thames’ evolution, a way to reconnect with the river, a celebration of our collective history and a glimpse into our city’s future.”

The project is being directed by Leo Villareal, an American artist who specialises in such displays, and promises to reduce light pollution and cut energy consumption by up to 50% on the larger bridges, which currently use fluorescents. In an interview with The Guardian, he said his objective is to “honour the bridges for what they are” and that it’s “not a rock concert, not a light show”.

Great care has been taken to ensure the project won’t disturb the ecology of the river. The new LED lights will be less intrusive than the existing glares, so this will improve the situation for aquatic wildlife, and detailed bird and bat surveys have been conducted, to safeguard feeding and roosting behaviours.

The project will be rolled out in phases, with the first bridges on the list being London Bridge, Cannon Street Bridge, Southwark Bridge and Millennium Bridge.

Find out more about the project at illuminatedriver.london.

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