Revealed: Britain’s ‘most secret’ bridge
Sep 1 2008 by Adrian Pearson, The Journal
THE JOURNAL can today reveal the first picture of what has been dubbed “the most secretive bridge in Britain”.
And the people of Sunderland have the final say on whether it will be built over the River Wear. Councillors are considering options ranging from a basic bridge to the stunning design pictured here for the first time.
The Stephen Spence-designed bridge has been the centre of debate at Sunderland Civic Centre as councillors argue over whether or not the council can afford the extra cash needed to upgrade to the more ambitious design.
The long-running considerations prompted a national construction magazine to question wether it was “Britain’s most secretive bridge?” And council leader Paul Watson has had to answer accusations he is reluctant to go-ahead with the grand design as it will be a drain on the authority’s cash reserves.
The final design would make the bridge taller than Penshaw Monument.
Mr Watson has previously said he will not put city finances at risk by backing a potentially budget-busting design, although he acknowledged the desires for an ambitious crossing.
Sunderland residents are expected to be asked to place the criteria they want the council to rate as most important when considering the designs.
In theory, the consultation will give voters a say over millions of pounds worth of infrastructure improvements.
Mr Watson said he wanted the options and the financial implications out in the open in order for people to make the best decision.
He said: “We are about to start a consultation programme with the people of the city.
“We will try to ensure, as far as is possible, that consultees make an informed decision when giving their feedback so we can be sure that we can rely on their information when the decision is made as to how we procure the new bridge.”
The pictured option is similar in design and construction to the Erasmus bridge over the River Mass in Rotterdam, which is an international symbol of that city.
Government transport bosses have already promised £98m towards the scheme. Development agency One NorthEast has offered more than £8m but only on the condition the bridge is “iconic”.
