Since being opened to traffic on September 7, 2024 the bridge has significantly reduced congestion and improved connectivity between the northern and southern parts of the town.
It has performed more than 1,000 lifts in its first year of operation, with more than 350 vessels travelling under the span without causing delay to traffic during the summer.
It has also won awards - the 2025 Bridges Design and Construction Award for projects over £10 million, and a Highly Commended honour at the Chartered Institute of Highways & Transport award. It is also currently shortlisted in the Best Transport Project category for the British Construction and Infrastructure Awards 2025, which are being held in October 2025.
The bridge crosses Lake Lothing and the East Suffolk railway line and comprises of eight spans, including the largest hydraulically driven rolling bascule bridge in the world.
Councillor Paul West, Suffolk County Council’s Cabinet Member for Operational Highways and Flooding, said: "The Council was delighted to deliver this third crossing of Lake Lothing, with the benefits being felt across the town and surrounding areas almost immediately.
"By taking the pressure away from the existing crossings, Gull Wing has transformed travel times, supporting local businesses and the local economy.
"Modern cycle and pedestrian routes flank the carriageway along the bridge, encouraging more sustainable modes of transport, providing a significant step forward tor Lowestoft, its residents, and businesses.”
Work began on the bridge in April 2021, having been an aspiration since the early 20th century.
Lowestoft’s new landmark was in the spotlight within 24 hours of opening as the cycling tour of Great Britain passed over it.
It was then formally opened by Her Royal Highness, Princess Anne The Princess Royal on November 19.
Spanning 345 metres in total, the bridge features a main bascule span that is 39.5 metres long and 22 metres wide. It sits 12 metres clear above high tide when closed and can accommodate marine vessels up to 32 metres wide.
When it is required to open for larger vessels, there is a typical delay of around six minutes.
The opening of the bridge has relieved congestion as through traffic no longer has to use the existing Bascule Bridge in Lowestoft town centre, or the crossing at Oulton Broad.
The name 'Gull Wing' was coined by Somerleyton Primary School pupils Eva Ainslie, Jack Baldry, and Hayden Nicholls in a competition for local schools.
They took the inspiration for the name from the shape of the bascule span's beams and their resemblance to the wings of a gull.
