The City of Sunderland and Sunderland Arc have announced the launch of a design competition for a major new vehicle and pedestrian crossing of the River Wear in north east England. Expressions of interest are being sought from architect or engineer-led teams to design a landmark structure to act as a gateway to the city centre. Up to six teams will be invited to develop their proposals in return for an honorarium. The competition is being organised by the Royal Institute of British Architects in association with the Institution of Civil Engineers. The deadline for expressions of interest is 7 March.