THE rising price of steel has forced up the cost of a new landmark bridge over East Lancashire's main railway by almost £2million.

Blackburn with Darwen Council secured £7.9million from the Government last year to build a replacement Freckleton Street bridge across the Preston to Colne line at one of its widest points.

But council bosses have been forced to set aside nearly £2million of their own money for the bridge after costs rose -- with no guarantee they will get it back from the Government.

The new bridge will enable traffic to flow both ways over the line for the first time in four years.

The existing bridge was made one way after it was found to have structural defects, forcing council bosses to impose a vehicle weight limit.

The new bridge, yet to receive planning permission, has been described as a 'mini Sydney Harbour Bridge' and will be illuminated at night in an attempt to make it an attractive gateway to the town.

Coun Andy Kay, executive member for regeneration at Blackburn with Darwen Council, said: "We are preparing to ask Government for more money to help build the bridge.

"The time taken between drawing up plans and getting the money has meant it will cost more, but the rising cost of steel is a major factor.

"We want a bridge which will last a long time and be of a high-quality design, and the designers say steel is the best way to go.

"If Government can't give us the money, then we will pay the extra ourselves. Either way, the bridge will go ahead and hopefully on time."

Construction is due to begin next summer, and be completed in October 2008. Work has already begun demolishing the buildings around the existing bridge, including the old Brewers Arms pub in Great Bolton Street.

The price of steel has risen £170 per tonne in the last 12 months.