ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT NEWS: A sweeping statement

A double-arched design was last week chosen for the new crossing over the Tees at Northbank, Stockton. The bridge (see visualisation, above) is intended to carry both pedestrians and cyclists over the river, and "provide a prestigious and distinctive landmark in line with the ambitious development proposals for the site," according to the panel making the selection. Designed by architect Spence Associates, the structure will form part of the regeneration of a 24ha industrial site where government regeneration agency English Partnerships has spent £5 million on land reclamation. Detailed designs for the £4 million bridge will now be drawn up, with construction contracts due to be awarded in the new year.