Local young people invited to help shape Garden Bridge project

Students from primary and secondary schools in Lambeth and Westminster are joining the new youth board. So far Oasis Academy South Bank and St Clement Danes Primary School are involved in the initiative, with more to follow.

The trust says that youth board members will be involved in decision-making about the project, contributing to the trust's education and employment strategy, and gaining an understanding of the challenges of building a bridge, and career opportunities in engineering, design and horticulture.

Oasis Academy South Bank pupil Aya Aslih said: "I am excited to a part of the Garden Bridge Youth Board because it is a new and exciting project that sits in the heart of London.

"I am also proud to represent my school in this opportunity. I think it is a good idea because it is very original, eco-friendly and will help children learn more about nature."

Carly Mitchell, principal of Oasis Academy South Bank, said: "We are delighted to be working with the Garden Bridge Trust on this new landmark in London. It is an excellent opportunity for our students to feed into the legacy of the bridge and support other young people in the city. It also feeds into our vision by giving our students a fascinating opportunity to learn about engineering and other related careers involved in the construction of the bridge."

In June key figures from the Garden Bridge Trust visited Boutcher Primary School in Bermondsey to hear pupils' their ideas for the operation of the bridge.

• Last week the Garden Bridge won in the transport and infrastructure category of the New London Awards.

• On Wednesday night a petition against the Garden Bridge will be delivered to a full council meeting at Lambeth Town Hall.