A landmark for movable bridge engineering

The Gull Wing Bridge is a major piece of infrastructure for Lowestoft in the UK, connecting the north and south of the town with its record-breaking rolling bascule design. As one of the most advanced movable bridges in the UK, it improves travel across Lake Lothing while keeping the waterway accessible to maritime traffic.

Gull Wing Bridge UK IABSE winner 2025 with Arup — Close-up view of the bridge's lifting mechanism. Credits: Arup

The Gull Wing Bridge, formerly known as the Lake Lothing Third River Crossing, is a 350‑metre steel rolling bascule bridge linking the south and north banks of Lake Lothing in Lowestoft. A rolling bascule opening rolls the main span backwards like a wheel allowing for a quicker lift compared to typical pivotal mechanisms. This quick mechanism helps minimise the traffic congestion in the area. Its innovative engineering has already gained international recognition, including the IABSE Award 2025 for Small Road and Rail Bridges.

Working in partnership with Arup, Ramboll carried out the Category III design check, ensuring the bridge performs to the highest standards of safety and performance. This independent verification forms a vital part of the assurance process for nationally significant infrastructure projects.

Designed to improve connectivity across Lowestoft, the bridge provides a more reliable north–south route across the lake while maintaining essential access for vessels using the inner harbour. When raised, the bascule span opens to allow shipping to pass safely through Lake Lothing.

At the heart of the structure is a 38.5‑metre opening span that is powered by hydraulic cylinders housed within a pier and supplied by hydraulic fluid from a unit located 80 metres away. This engineering achievement makes the Gull Wing Bridge the largest rolling bascule of its kind in the world.