The newest bridge over the River Wensum in Norwich is starting to take shape, and a rather unusual shape at that.

Work is well under way on the �1.5m crossing, which will connect the Barrack Street redevelopment to the Riverside Walk close to the law courts.

Jarrold's secured planning permission for the new footbridge back in 2007 and sees it as a vital part of the redevelopment of the company's land off Barrack Street, where its print works once stood.

The bridge is of an unusual 'J' shaped design, which means that it has a relatively shallow gradient. It is supported on two 'hidden' pillars and a special inflatable dinghy called Bridgit is being used during its construction.

Designers say that because the bridge will always be open, lighting it is a key element and care has been taken to avoid light pollution.

The original idea for a bridge across the river there was conceived by former chairman Peter Jarrold more than 25 years ago.

A spokesman for Jarrold's said: 'The bridge will run from the walkway through the site next to Dragonfly House to St Helen's Wharf car park next to the Adam and Eve pub. The bridge will further improve pedestrian access to the site and create a shorter route to the city centre for residents to the north of the site.' The bridge has been funded by Jarrold and Sons Ltd as part of its planning agreements and work is expected to be completed by the end of the year.

What do you think of the bridge? Write to Evening News Letters, Prospect House, Rouen Road, Norwich NR1 1RE or email eveningnewsletters@archant.co.uk.