THE LATEST sensation in Venice is a new bridge by Santiago Calatrava – only the fourth bridge to be built across the Grand Canal in the city’s history. With a 94-metre span, this elegant contemporary crossing is supported by a steel structure not unlike the bones of a fish.

Described by Calatrava as “a walkway of light”, the new bridge links the bus station at Piazzale Roman with Santa Lucia railway station and it’s already in such heavy use, so soon after being opened on September 11th, that one wonders how Venice managed without it. Painted red and illuminated at night, the steel undercroft is topped by a deck faced by polished Istrian stone, which is also used for the sweeping piers on either side, with glass balustrades, bronze handrails and shatterproof glass steps – 126 of them in all.

The steps are controversial, because they deny “access” to anyone in a wheelchair or those pushing baby buggies. A notice by the bridge – named Ponte della Costituzione – says that lifts are to be installed in the near future.

Apparently, Calatrava didn’t want to burden the aesthetic appearance with unsightly wheelchair ramps. So an accessibility system has been devised with the University of Padua, involving “cabins” to transport disabled people when required.

Meanwhile, Japanese starchitect Tadao Ando is renovating the historic Punta della Dogana, beside Salute church, as an art museum.