London Mayor Boris Johnson had sought Apple help for Thames Garden Bridge project

London Mayor Boris Johnson tried to convince Apple to fund the ambitious Garden Bridge project across the Thames, according to a recent report in The Architects' Journal. Johnson is reported to have meet Apple executives in California sometime in 2013.

Apple has closely been followed for its contemporary architectural designs and attention to detail while putting up its retail stores. However, Apple has never entertained the prospect of funding any projects that do not support its product marketing.

Consequently, Johnson's efforts at wooing Apple turned out to be futile. The mayor's office reportedly confirmed that the meeting did take place and Apple responded to the publication saying that the company has "no involvement in this bridge project and is not considering getting involved".

Here is the official statement from the mayor's spokesperson to The Architect's Journal:

"The mayor met Apple in 2013 to discuss a number of investment opportunities in London. Thomas Heatherwick was also in California to meet a separate commitment with Apple. Given that he had already expressed interest in creating a Garden Bridge, the mayor invited him to join the meeting and outline his ideas.

"That meeting had no bearing on the procurement process led by Transport for London for the design of the Garden Bridge, which was open, fair and transparent.

"The Garden Bridge will be a spectacular new addition to London. Work on building the bridge is due to begin this year and it is widely supported by Londoners and businesses on both sides of the river."

Apple's non-involvement does not seem to have affected Johnson's ambitious plans to kick-start the project sometime in 2016. It is reported that the project has the backing of local residents and businesses in the suburbs surrounding the river.