The three arches of the historic Bewdley bridge will be lit up from beneath under plans to create a “landmark gateway” to the town.

A “substantial bid” for lottery funding is being made for the project, it was revealed today. White spotlights would be attached to the brickwork to illuminate the arches.

The 27ft-wide bridge, which is a grade II listed structure, would be bathed in light and seen for long distances down the River Severn, councillors say.

Bewdley Town Councillor Derek Killingworth said it would be a focal point of the town and attract visitors at night. The plans have moved a step closer now the bid for lottery funds has been made.

Bewdley Town Council has been working on the plan for months and the Heritage Lottery Fund has already expressed an interest in the project.

Councillor Killingworth said: “The bridge is the first thing people see when they get into Bewdley and use it to cross the river and enter the town.

“The bridge would look superb lit up at night — it would be a landmark gateway and a real focal point.”

The town council also hopes to get funds for the project from Worcestershire County Council.

Members of the council and Bewdley’s Mayor Paul Gittins have now approved the final version of the lottery funding bid.

It will be submitted over the next two months and it is hoped a decision will be made early in the New Year.

The council today declined to reveal the amount of the lottery fund bid in case it prejudiced the decision but said it was substantial.

Town councillor Derek Killingworth said: “It has taken a long time to put the bid together but the council is now ready to submit it.”

The council hopes to emulate the historic Iron Bridge in Telford, which was illuminated in coloured lights on Saturday. But Councillor Killingworth said he wanted Bewdley’s lights to be “subtle”, so the plans would only include white bulbs.