THE £3 million footbridge proposed for the River Ouse is to be the subject of a design competition.

Councillors agreed that the design of the pedestrian footbridge, which will link the Guildhall and North Street Gardens, should be decided by a design competition, which will see top architects and construction companies vying to be involved in the project.

Coun Dave Merrett (Micklegate), leader of the Labour group, told the meeting of the executive member of transport and planning and its advisory panel last night: "This has to be a bridge of some distinction or it will not be acceptable. The design competition must be done in a way that involves the public."

Coun Christian Vassie (Lib Dem, Wheldrake), agreed the bridge must be of a very high quality. He said: "Modern architecture can look absolutely stunning against old buildings. It could be of great importance for York."

The bridge, which is expected to cost between £3 million and £4 million, will be exclusively for pedestrians and will also have full disabled access.

But Coun Tracey Simpson-Laing (Lab, Acomb), shadow executive for planning and transport, said she thought many cyclists would use the bridge without dismounting as it would be an excellent cycle route into the city.

The project evoked some objections from residents who felt the proposed footbridge was unnecessary.

Objector Michael Fisher, who spoke at last night's meeting, said: "This bridge isn't going to persuade a single extra person to get out of their car. If you really want to open up the river area as a place to enjoy and at the same time increase pedestrian capacity over the Ouse, stop cars going over Lendal Bridge and allow only one lane for public transport."

Council officer Michael Taverner said that funding for the bridge would not use funds which could be used for any other scheme.

But although a feasibility study has been carried out, the project is still in its very early stages.

The executive member for transport and planning, Coun Ann Reid (Lib Dem, Dringhouses and Woodthorpe), said: "We need to make sure residents realise there is still an awful long way to go."

Updated: 10:42 Thursday, September 04, 2003