Plans to build a new pedestrian and cycle bridge across the River Thames between Canary Wharf and Rotherhithe have taken a big step forward following the completion of a detailed feasibility study.

Designers reForm Architects has developed a unique structure that would boast the world’s largest span for an opening bascule bridge.

The plans have been developed with Elliott Wood engineers and cost management advice from Arup.

The 185m central span is supported by cables from angled masts at each side. These wishbone-like structures pivot to enable the bridge to lift at its centre to allow tall and large ships to pass.

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The masts also act as counterbalance weights, so that the bridge can open very efficiently requiring £10 of electricity to open.

Working with Sustrans, the design has been used to test the viability of a crossing at this location in consultation with Transport for London (TfL), London Underground, the Port of London Authority and the Canal & River Trust.

The proposed bridge has the potential to bring significant economic benefits to the communities on either side of the river and beyond, and will be a welcoming gateway for all those arriving into London by river.

It would be the first opening bridge to be built on the River Thames since Tower Bridge in 1894.

The East London design was revealed as another footbridge plan in West London moved ahead after the successful design team was named for the £40m project.

A team led by Dutch firm Bystrup with Robin Snell Architects has won the design competition for a new bridge in Nine Elms. Its design features a slender structure and spiralling ramps at both ends.