A NEW bridge for York could be on the cards under £2 million plans drawn up by the city's transport bosses.

The pedestrian bridge has been earmarked to cross the River Ouse, linking North Street and Coney Street.

The bridge, which would be known as the Guildhall footbridge, would offer pedestrians an alternative to Lendal Bridge and Ouse Bridge. It would also aid pedestrian access to the Micklegate area and may also be used by cyclists.

Bill Woolley, assistant director of environment and development at City of York Council, said the bridge, which would link the Guildhall and the gardens across the river, would cost the council an estimated £2 million.

He said: "We have just commissioned a feasibility study into the footbridge to see if the plan is practical. We want to make sure that this is a landmark bridge for York that people would want to come and see."

The council's proposed transport schemes also include looking into a light rail system for York and introducing a new cycle route between the Nestl Rowntree site and the station.

Two more Park and Ride sites, at Monks Cross and Wigginton, and a major resurfacing programme for York roads and footpaths are also planned.

The proposals will go before members of the transport advisory panel and the executive member for transport, Coun Tracey Simpson-Laing next Monday.

The plans follow a massive boost in the council's budget for transport.

The Government has increased the annual transport budget from £5.6 million to £7.9 million. The integrated transport budget has gone up by £1.9million to £6.6 million.

The council is considering adopting an Australian scheme to encourage York motorists to leave their cars at home.

Intelligent Travel gives families a tailor-made travel plan, encouraging alternatives to car travel such as walking, cycling and public transport. Incentives include discount bus travel.

City of York Council's transport planners are planning to adapt the congestion-busting scheme, which will be funded by the Department for Transport.

The project will be piloted in Clifton, Chapelfields and Poppleton.

Coun Simpson-Laing said: "This approach has achieved incredible results. It's a fantastic opportunity to make further inroads to congestion in York and promote healthy lifestyles at the same time."

Updated: 11:15 Monday, March 03, 2003