A new bridge in Leeds has been completed in memory of David Oluwale, who died in the city after being racially harassed.
Over the weekend, the David Oluwale bridge was completed, and now connects Sovereign Street to Water Lane over the River Aire in Leeds city centre.
David was tragically found drowned in the River Aire on April 18, 1969, after last being seen being chased by two police officers.
He had travelled to the UK from Nigeria, where he was targeted because of his race, mental health and homelessness.
David's death led to the first time British police was prosecuted for its involvement in the death of a Black person.
Max Farrar, secretary of the Remember Oluwale charity, said: “Right from the start, Leeds City Council has backed our mission to remind Leeds of its tragic past and to support everyone working for a more welcoming, diverse and equal city.
“This bridge, the imminent Blue Plaque for David Oluwale, and the 2023 memory garden featuring a joyful sculpture by Yinka Shonibare CBE, RA show that David’s story will never be forgotten. They combine to demonstrate that we are making real progress.”
It is hoped the bridge will open to the public later in the summer, for use by both pedestrians and cyclists. Leeds City Council and the David Oluwale Memorial Association (DOMA) are working together to commemorate David and his death with the bridge.
Leeds Council intends the bridge to be a symbol of its commitment to inclusion and equality in Leeds.
West Yorkshire’s deputy mayor for policing and crime, Alison Lowe OBE said: “It is great to see that the bridge is now in its final stages of completion, particularly given all it symbolises. Its physical presence will be a lasting reminder of the need to challenge disparity and promote equality in everything we do.
“The case of David Oluwale will continue to reverberate in our local history and why it is so important that the theme of ‘Inclusion’ sits at the core of the Mayor’s first Police and Crime Plan for West Yorkshire.”
Cranes placed the 40 tonne bridge in place over the weekend. Contractors BAM Nuttall transported the 30m long bridge from where it was made in Yorkshire less than 20 miles away.
Gareth Farrier, BAM Nuttall’s North England regional director added: “We feel privileged to work with our long-standing partner, Leeds City Council and the David Oluwale Memorial Association, strengthening community connections, installing this footbridge.
“Our team has been impressed and inspired by the Association’s commitment and work to address racism, homelessness and support mental health. We’re proud to play our part in creating this symbol of David’s life, and an enduring reminder for us all to treat everyone with respect and compassion and celebrate diversity.”
Councillor Helen Hayden, Leeds City Council’s executive member for infrastructure and climate, said: “It’s wonderful to see this moving and inspiring project making such a pivotal step forward and for a lasting tribute to the memory of David Oluwale to be taking shape.
“It is our hope that this stunning new addition to the city will commemorate his story for generations to come as well as standing as a lasting symbol of our shared commitment to diversity and inclusion in a brighter and better connected Leeds.”
The bridge is part of the council's South Bank regeneration programme, which also includes 35,000 new jobs, 8,000 new homes and a new park and schools.
