Plans for a new foot and cycle bridge over the River Lagan in Belfast have moved forward.

A preferred option has been announced for the 141-metre long cable stayed bridge designed for use by pedestrians and cyclists.

The proposed bridge will have a steel deck and 40 metre high steel towers which will be constructed close to the banks of the River Lagan, leaving the main central section of the river free from obstruction.

A consultation on the environmental issues associated with the proposed bridge will take place this month.

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Transport Minister Danny Kennedy said: "At a cost of between £7million to £9million, the preferred design is the least expensive of the three options and is expected to have the least environmental impact during construction. In addition, the steel towers will be built close to the banks of the river which will minimise the impact on the river."

The next stage in the process is to seek the views of stakeholders on the environmental issues associated with the proposed bridge. There will also be opportunities for the public to see the preferred design and to discuss the proposals with the design team in the early part of 2015. Subject to the outcome of these events, it is proposed that a planning application could be submitted later in 2015.

(CD/JP)