Princess Anne Inaugurates Lowestoft’s £146m Gull Wing Bridge

Local residents gathered to witness the official opening of a £146 million bridge, the culmination of years of development. Princess Anne, the Princess Royal, arrived in Lowestoft, Suffolk, by helicopter to inaugurate the Gull Wing Bridge, a new crossing spanning Lake Lothing. Before formally opening the bridge with the press of a button, she engaged with members of Suffolk County Council and individuals involved in the construction project. A commemorative plaque, detailing the bridge’s official opening date, was also unveiled at the base of its control tower. Construction of the Gull Wing Bridge commenced in 2021 and experienced several delays over the years. It became accessible to pedestrians and vehicles on 7 September, with many motorists sounding their horns as they traversed the new structure. This bridge is recognized as the largest of its kind, featuring a bascule span that measures 39.5 meters (130 feet) in length, 22 meters (72 feet) in width, and 35 meters (115 feet) in height. It serves as Lowestoft’s third crossing and maintains a clearance of 12 meters (39 feet) above the highest tide level. While the bridge is projected to have a lifespan of 120 years, its final total cost remains undetermined, though the council anticipates it will reach £146 million. Initial funding of £74 million for the bridge was first declared by former Prime Minister David Cameron in March 2016.