Built as part of a new road traffic scheme in Durham, it links the A690/A691 on the west side of the river with the A690 and A181 on the east. Previously traffic crossed the old Framwellgate and Elvet bridges in the city centre. The other part of the road scheme is the New Elvet Bridge, though it did not open until 8 years later. The Millburngate shopping centre adjoins the bridge as part of the overall plan.