First section of Lowestoft's Gull Wing Bridge lifted into place
It's a big step forward for the project to build a third bridge in the town
The first section of Lowestoft's Gull Wing bridge has been lifted into place over the East Suffolk railway line.
The complex engineering operation has taken place over the weekend, led by civil engineering firm Farrans.
The section of the northern end of the crossing arrived at Lake Lothing in March having crossed the North Sea on a 32 hour journey from Belgium.
Work to move the 1,450 tonne structure into place started at midnight on Friday (October 21) and concluded this morning.
The Gull Wing bridge was given the go ahead in 2020 and is expected to cost in the region of £150m.
It's expected to open in 2023.
Councillor Matthew Hicks, Leader of Suffolk County Council, said: “This is a significant and exciting milestone in the building of the Gull Wing bridge.
“People can now start seeing the bridge really begin to take shape, a structure which once finished will have a huge and positive impact on the town of Lowestoft and the wider area.
“It will open up investment into the town by tackling congestion and improving connectivity for motorists, cyclists and pedestrians.”
Peter Aldous, MP for Waveney, said: “It’s good news that progress continues to be made on the construction of the Gull Wing Bridge, which once completed will change our skyline forever; making it easier to travel between north and south Lowestoft, reducing traffic congestion in the town, and attracting new investment to the area.
“It is essential to ensure that the bridge, which has been such a long time coming, delivers a lasting legacy of increased business activity and skilled jobs for local people, and I will be doing everything I can to ensure that this happens.”