Opinions Needed for A2 Graphics Coursework

[pettersolberg29]

As part of my exterior design Graphics Coursework I am designing and building a new iconic feature for Donington Circuit ready for the F1 race in 2010. I've decided to do this in the form of a new bridge, hopefully becoming as iconic as the old Dunlop Bridge. My aim is to raise the profile of the track, improve its worldwide reputation etc.

If you could answer a few questions as motorsport fans, it would help with my research. Thanks:

1) Would you prefer a revolutionary, modern design, or a traditional design.
2) Would a usable bridge for human be better, or one which is not usable but is more like an art form.
3) Is there a particular place on the Donington track you think a bridge would look good?
4) Do you think a bridge is a good idea?
5) Any suggestions of existing bridges/ideas/designs you have? (link form or anything else)

Thanks in advance.

[patnicholls]

Personally I'd go with a slight modernisation of the Starkey's 'Bridge' near the Old Hairpin which at present is the stone bridge on the left of the track and then the gantry with that blue plastic missile-thing going over the track - it's always been part of the Donington I know but with things changing it could be revamped.

The issue there is that with the new Goddards loop being added that looks like extending out a fair way through the infield, so the inside bank looking down onto the Craner Curves -probably the biggest spectator area - is probably in for a MAJOR revamp (don't be surprised to see it levelled entirely, or very severe groundworks at least). And that will impact on how things look for where the Starkey's Bridge joins the inside of the track and whether it's usable. (new track master plan being here: http://www.donington-park.co.uk/files/pdf/master_plan.pdf for those not in the know)

It's tricky to know how it'll turn out - in theory the mods look pretty good aside from the total butchering of Coppice. I'm just not sure how they'll fit everything in in the middle!

[pettersolberg29]

Thanks for answering - any more welcome...?

[The Phantom]

1) Would you prefer a revolutionary, modern design, or a traditional design.

a) I think you need to be careful that you don't make the circuit look like Shanghai, or Sentul (Malaysia) - too modern seems to take away from the 'feel' of a circuit, motor racing of all types is after all rooted in tradition. But a 'half tyre' like Oran Park is a bit uncle too, so something in between I suppose... that's helpful isn't it :rolleyes:

2) Would a usable bridge for human be better, or one which is not usable but is more like an art form.

a) Good art can be walked on :) I think if it's possible it should have a practical aspect. At Eastern Creek (Sydney) there is a pedestrian bridge over the track between turns 7 and 8, which takes spectators to 'Corporate Hill', it's a very plain bridge but extremely useful and it suits the look of that part of the track. You can also do a pretty good burnout in it when you ride your bike through :D

3) Is there a particular place on the Donington track you think a bridge would look good?

a) Sorry I only know the track from bike racing and Playstation... hard for me to say. But run-off is such a big consideration these days, that it can only go on a good straight, to keep the size (and cost) within reason.

4) Do you think a bridge is a good idea?

a) Yep, all good circuits need a bridge or two, they add character, practicality, sponsor signage opportunities, camera locations.

5) Any suggestions of existing bridges/ideas/designs you have? (link form or anything else)

a) It's unfortunate that overhead bridges need to be securely encased to protect track users, I haven't been in many that give any sort of view. Probably on purpose so that you don't get dozens of people crowding the bridge. But perhaps design it so that it captures and funnels the sound of racing machines up to the pedestrians as they cross? There's a lot you can do with accoustics. I guess you could also use glass/perspex/lexan to encase it to allow a view but you would definitely need a way to control crowds in it.

An interesting bridge is being built about 200m from where I work, it's a pedestrian bridge over the Brisbane River:

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3574/3330220100_8b472c8608.jpg

http://www.bustler.net/images/uploads/tank_street_bridge_01.jpg

[pettersolberg29]

Thanks a lot Mr. Phantom. Great feedback - exactly what I was asking for. The idea on acoustics especially.
Thanks again.

[pettersolberg29]

One quick question about the current Dunlop Bridge. Where was it situated on the track, and could people walk across it? I've had friends telling me contrasting stories but I'm sure people on here will know!

[patnicholls]

One quick question about the current Dunlop Bridge. Where was it situated on the track, and could people walk across it? I've had friends telling me contrasting stories but I'm sure people on here will know!

It was on the straight between Coppice and the Foggy Esses - effectively where the new start/finish is going to be. Yep, you could walk across it.

It was weird watching BSB on TV without it last month, but things do change.

[pettersolberg29]

Thanks.