Thorn Lighting has collaborated with Fife Council on a carefully considered lighting scheme for Glenrothes’ White Bridge, an iconic local landmark spanning the town’s central ravine.
The refurbishment project was developed in response to ongoing safety and anti-social behaviour concerns associated with the structure after dark. Working closely with council representatives and external stakeholders, Thorn Lighting helped develop a dynamic lighting scheme designed to encourage greater footfall and activity across the bridge environment while improving visibility and awareness around the structure.
While the bridge had previously been unlit, the new scheme introduces dynamic architectural illumination to the bridge spires alongside carefully positioned lighting directed into the ravine below. The aim was not only to improve the appearance and visibility of the structure after dark, but also to create greater spatial awareness of the surrounding environment.
Derick Ramsay, Key Account Manager at Thorn Lighting, explains:
“From the outset, this project required a very considered approach. The discussions were always centred around safety, sensitivity and understanding how lighting could positively contribute to the environment around the bridge. It was important that the scheme remained respectful while still delivering the visibility and impact the council wanted to achieve.”
One of the key technical challenges involved illuminating the bridge’s two distinctive spires. With no existing fixing points available, Thorn Lighting worked closely with its fabrication team to develop bespoke clamp brackets capable of securely supporting the luminaires without compromising the structure.
Thorn Contrast RGBW DMX floodlights were selected to provide dynamic architectural lighting to the bridge itself, while additional Contrast 3000K DMX luminaires were used to illuminate areas below the structure.
The flexibility of the DMX-controlled system allows lighting scenes and colour settings to be adapted when required, enabling the bridge to support civic events and awareness campaigns while maintaining a restrained day-to-day appearance.
Andrew Wishart, Technician Engineer – Roads and Lighting Contracts at Fife Council, comments:
“The council wanted a solution that balanced practicality, sensitivity and visual impact. Thorn Lighting understood the nature of the brief from the beginning and worked collaboratively with us to develop a scheme that addressed both the technical and environmental challenges of the site.”
(Picture: Thorn Lighting)
