LANCASTER'S Millennium Bridge celebrates its first birthday this week with a nomination for a prestigious design award.

The city council's millennium project, designed by the internationally renowned engineering consultants, Whitby Bird and Partners, is up for a prize in the Structural Design Awards sponsored by the British Constructural Steelwork Association.

The pedestrian and cycle bridge attracted criticism from some residents who felt it was inappropriate for the historic quayside but since opening 12 months ago it is used by around 2,000 people a day.

The Millennium Bridge will be judged from a wide range of projects throughout the country and Cllr James Airey said: "To be shortlisted for such a prestigious award is an honour and a fitting tribute to all those who planned, designed and built this bridge.

It has already become a landmark in the region and attracts many visitors who come just to travel across it and admire the view it gives of the city and the riverside.

Importantly, it has also become another key transport link, encouraging more people to walk and cycle throughout the area."

The results will be announced in June.