The bridge was opened to the public by EU Commissioner for Regional Policy, Johannes Hahn; accompanied by the First and deputy First Ministers, Peter Robinson and Martin McGuinness; and the Irish Taoiseach Enda Kenny.[4] It is intended to improve relations between the largely unionist 'Waterside' on the east bank with the largely nationalist 'Cityside' on the west bank, by improving access between these areas, as part of wider regeneration plans. The bridge also provides a crossing over the railway line approaching Waterside station. The asymetrical bridge, which is 235 m (770 ft) long and 4 m (13 ft) metre wide, is supported by two sloping pillars and symbolises a coming-together of the two communities. Its curved footpath, track and cycleway link the Guild Hall, in the centre of the city, with Ebrington Square in the Waterside area, and St Columb’s Park