The structure, made only of 22,000 sheets of paper, was designed and erected by environmental artist Steve Messam. It took three years to develop after it was commissioned by Lakes Culture as part of its Lakes Ignite 2015 program.

While the red paper bridge might not be that appealing to some people who understandably are scared to walk on it lest it’s collapse, Messam claims the 4.5 tons of paper make it stronger even than oak.

One of the first visitors to the bridge, which will stand in the Lake District for a limited period only, mountaineer Alan Hinkes described how it felt.

He said: “I was slightly perturbed at crossing the bridge – after all it is made out of paper, and I ventured across the first time with slight trepidation. There was a bit of a wobble at the top and you are nearly 10ft off the rocky stream bed, so it is no place for vertigo sufferers. Even after heavy rain the bridge showed no signs of damage and looked and felt secure and robust.”

Hinkes added: “At first glance the bridge looks dramatic as you approach it from Patterdale or Glenridding. The red really stands out in the wild landscape and draws you to explore it and touch it or even walk over it. The bridge looks very impressive and fits in really well with the terrain, it does not appear out of place or feel like an eyesore in the surrounding area.”

The paper was specially made by specialist paper maker James Cropper who told reporters that even if it rains, the colour will not run into the water below, and it will be recycled once it’s taken down.

The paper bridge can be seen and visited until May 18, when it will be taken down and disposed of with the environment in mind.