Opening date revealed for long-awaited £145m bridge

Lowestoft's Gull Wing Bridge will be opened for pedestrians to walk over before motorists are allowed on

The opening date for a brand new £145m bridge has been announced.

Suffolk County Council said the new Gull Wing Bridge in Lowestoft, which has been under construction since 2021, will open on 7 September.

The structure was initially due to open last year but the council has faced several delays over the years.

The leader of the Conservative-controlled council, Matthew Hicks, said the bridge would stand as an "iconic new landmark" for the town.

Announcing the date, Mr Hicks said the people of Lowestoft had waited for a third river crossing over Lake Lothing for a long time.

He added: "Suffolk County Council promised we would build a new bridge, and I am delighted to announce today that we have delivered on that promise.

"The Gull Wing will not only serve as a vital transportation link between north and south, but also stands as an iconic new landmark for the town, representing a new era of development and prosperity for Lowestoft.

"I look forward to seeing the positive impact it will have on our community."

The bridge was due to open in 2023 but there were several delays

The bridge will be the largest of its kind, with the bascule span 39.5m (130ft) long, 22m (72ft) wide and 35m (115ft) tall.

It will sit clear of the highest tide by 12m (39ft) and the J-beams will be more than 50m (164ft) above the sea.

It will offer a third route over Lake Lothing, reducing traffic congestion in the area and shortening journey times.

A community walkabout on the bridge will take place on the opening day before traffic is allowed to cross.

From 09:00 to 11:30 BST, pedestrians will be free to walk over the bridge.

The project was paid for using funds from the Department for Transport and Suffolk County Council

Civil engineering contractor Farrans built the bridge on behalf of the council.

Project manager Tristram Browne said the team was "proud" to have worked on the construction.

"We have brought the region on the journey of the bridge build with us, creating some memorable sights with the arrival of the bridge and bascule sections," he said.

"It has been a pleasure to work on such a complex, technical project and we would like to thank the local community for their support."

The construction helped to employ 76 local people as well as providing apprenticeships and volunteer work.

The work was initially approved in 2015 before construction began in 2021.