River crossing to make city the king of swing in spring

The £7.5m structure, being built by contractors from Barnsley-based firm Qualter Hall, was due to open in December 2010 but was delayed because of funding problems.

But with its larger components expected to be lifted into place by floating cranes within a month, the project is now in track for a spring opening.

Based on a concept by architects McDowell and Benedetti – who have previously built the award-winning Castleford Bridge over the River Aire – it is expected to become a visitor attraction in its own right and will feature eye-catching lighting displays and will open to the sound of a waterfall.

It will be shaped to represent a whale when viewed from the side, with a fin on the top while another two at the very tip will enclose gates that shut when the bridge is about to move.

As well as being the first bridge of its kind in the UK to allow people to remain on it as it swings, it could also house a bistro allowing diners to enjoy the ride as they eat.

It had been intended to link to a £100m development known as the Boom, featuring flats, offices, shops and restaurants, but that project fell victim to funding cuts.