Plans for the Twin Sails Bridge in the southern English town of Poole have taken a major step forward following the signing of a key agreement between the local borough and landowners.

The agreement means that the council has now secured the land required for Poole's second harbour crossing.

A shortlist of six contractors has been invited to submit bids by the end of October for the construction contract with a view to starting work by February 2010.

The opening bridge has been designed by Gifford, Wilkinson Eyre Architects and Bennett Associates.