THE search is on for a name for Newport's latest bridge.

The Southern Distributor Road bridge opened in late November last year, but the city's latest river crossing has not been christened yet.

Councillor Ron Jones, cabinet member for transport, is searching for a name before the official opening of the SDR, which is expected in the coming months.

And he has asked Argus readers to join in by suggesting their favourite names.

He said: "The decision has been left to me but I'm looking for any inspiration and ideas that anyone has.

"Just calling it the SDR bridge makes sense but it's quite ugly sounding. I'd prefer a name that is reminiscent of the area. Possible names so far include Lysaghts Bridge, after the nearby institute, Town Dock bridge, or The Orb, because of the Orb steelworks.

"We've already got the Town Bridge, Transporter Bridge and George Street Bridge. Newport's latest link over the Usk deserves a name of its own."

While no public vote is planned to decide the final name, this is the third major construction project in the city where public opinion has been sought.

Argus readers suggested their favourite design for a new footbridge, and a public vote settled the name for the city's new theatre and arts centre, The River-front.

The 55m southern distributor road links the Coldra and Pont Ebbw roundabouts, providing a new route around the southern edge of the city.

The new road, which opened fully in mid-December last year, has proved a big hit with local businesses and commuters.