PROVISIONAL plans have been drawn up to move Gateshead Millennium Bridge into place on Sunday.

Fierce storms and adverse tides delayed the arrival of the bridge on the River Tyne earlier this month.

Gateshead Borough Council said yesterday that the operation was scheduled to go ahead at the weekend - "weather permitting".

If all goes to plan, the 850-tonne steel bridge will be lifted by a giant crane at the Amec construction yard, Wallsend, on Saturday.

Early on Sunday, the crane will begin the six-mile journey up river to Gateshead quays, where the bridge will be lifted into place.

Wind speeds have to be less than 20 to 25mph. Tides have to be right and are only suitable between Saturday and next Tuesday.

Bad weather could delay or bring forward the operation. The final date will be confirmed 24 to 48 hours beforehand, and posted on www.gateshead.gov.u