The Royal Institute of British Architects is delighted to announce that a shortlist of seven designs for the River Douglas Crossing near Preston in Lancashire has been chosen by an expert judging panel. The international design competition attracted an outstanding response, with 110 designs received worldwide. Entries were received from architects in Hong Kong, Japan, USA, Australia and Malaysia as well as the UK and Europe.

The seven shortlisted practices are:

• Amin Taha Architects, London
• Guy Nordenson & Associates, USA
• JDA with Arup, London
• Nick Hancock Design Studio, London
• NPS North West Ltd, Cumbria
• Ramboll Whitbybird with Priestman Goode, London
• t-hoch-n Architektur, Austria

Competitors were set the challenge of designing a suitable cycle and bridleway crossing of the River Douglas at Hesketh Bank with Becconsall. A new crossing of the River Douglas will improve access within the proposed Regional Park allowing more visitors to enjoy the area. It is anticipated that the crossing will function not only as an access route but also as a flagship attraction within the Regional Park. The bridge will also provide a safe off-road sustainable travel and leisure route for use by local residents, schoolchildren and cyclists commuting between Southport and Preston.

The seven designs are preliminary concepts at this stage and will be modified and developed over the coming weeks ahead of a public consultation in September.

The shortlisted teams will meet with the judging panel in October to discuss their concepts further.