Her Royal Highness and CILT Patron, The Princess Royal has officially opened the Gull Wing Bridge in Lowestoft, Suffolk County Coun
cil has confirmed.
The multi-million-pound bridge backed by £73 million of government funding by the Department for Transport (DfT) opened publicly to pedestrians and vehicles in September however the formal opening took place on 19 November.
It was built on behalf of Suffolk County Council by civil engineering contractor Farrans.
Her Royal Highness unveiled a commemorative plaque formally opening the structure and Suffolk County Council has said the bridge is already bringing huge benefits.
Councillor Matthew Hicks, the leader of Suffolk County Council, said: “It is a wonderful piece of engineering that is already bringing significant benefits to the town and will do so for decades to come, so it was only fitting it should receive a Royal visit to formally mark its opening.”
According to the council’s businesses and residents, the bridge has already reduced congestion and improved mobility around the town.
It is expected to create new job opportunities and streamline logistics and transportation.
Gull Wing Bridge is said to be the largest rolling bascule bridge in the world at 345 metres in length and provides a third river crossing over Lake Lothing, linking the southern and northern parts of Lowestoft.
The main bascule span across the navigation channel leaves a clear gap of 32 metres for marine vessels.
Speaking in September upon completion of the bridge, Tristram Browne, Project Manager at Farrans, said: "Our team is proud to have delivered the iconic Gull Wing Bridge for the town of Lowestoft.
“During the delivery of this project we have employed 76 local people, provided apprenticeships, volunteered on local community projects and donated significant sums to local charities. 
Minister for the Future of Roads, Lilian Greenwood added: “I know the importance of the Gull Wing Bridge to the people of East Suffolk.
"It will be transformational for local people and businesses."