The bridge will cost up to �3m

The �3m bridge in Leamouth - which will be for pedestrians and cyclists only - is part of the regeneration of the Thames Gateway area.

It will connect the Leamouth peninsula near the Millennium Dome to Canning Town Tube, bus and Docklands Light Railway station.

Six of Europe's leading architectural firms have put their designs forward and an expert jury is expected to select a winner in July.

The public can also suggest a name for the new bridge on the Leamouth Bridge competition website.

High aspirations With the Leamouth Bridge competition we are setting the standard to which future London developments will aspire Paul Finch In Pictures: The six proposals Vote for your best design

The intention is to secure planning permission later this year so the bridge can be opened in 2005.

Competition organisers Leaside Regeneration says access to the Leamouth Peninsula is very limited.

Paul Finch, head of the design jury, said: "Bringing the best in design to our communities is essential if we are to develop environments which add value to people's lives and work.

"With the Leamouth Bridge competition we are setting the standard to which future London developments will aspire."

The public will have the opportunity to view the submitted designs and models at Trinity Buoy Wharf from 25th June - 13th July 2003