Local opinion is in favour of the striking concept by Spence Associates and Techniker that was finally unveiled in September after winning a design competition in 2005.

The cabinet is now discussing whether to proceed to the next steps, which would finalise the design and therefore give greater certainty on key issues including cost and risk.

"In our hearts we want a striking new bridge that everyone can be proud of," said council leader Paul Watson. "But in our heads, in this economic climate, we have to look very carefully at the actual costs and funding for the bridge as well as the technical aspects that haven't yet been explored because it is still a concept, not a finished design."