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Gull Wing Bridge

The Gull Wing Bridge in Lowestoft, Suffolk, is the world’s largest rolling bascule bridge lifted by hydraulic cylinders. The complete bridge spans 345m, of which 38.5mm is the moving span, it serves as the third crossing over Lake Lothing, providing an alternative route to connect the north and south sides of the town – helping to ease heavy traffic.

 

Key facts

Location

Lowestoft, Suffolk 

In Partnership with

Suffolk County Council

Client

Farrans Construction, Arup, Bam Nuttall 
The £146m project was commissioned by Suffolk County Council and delivered by Farrans Construction in collaboration with a team of specialists, including Arup, Bam Nuttall, Eadon Consulting and Moxon Architects. Eadon played a key role as a specialist mechanical,  electrical and hydraulic sub-consultant to Arup. Eadon’s work involved the exemplar design the mechanical equipment and the detailed specification of the electrical, hydraulic and control systems. Eadon’s involvement began by supporting Suffolk County Council during the early stages during the application for funding and planning and then transitioned to the role of exemplar designer for the bridge operating equipment. 

The bridge features an unusual rolling bascule design where the deck rolls back onto the approach span – an engineering challenge given the lack of a fixed foundation. It is powered by a pair of huge hydraulic cylinders (580mm bore, 520mm rod, 13145mm stroke) which lift and lower the deck. The client requirement was for the bridge to open 116 seconds and close in 106 seconds to minimise disruption to traffic around the town. Meeting these operational criteria involved precise control of hydraulic systems, synchronisation of mechanical components, and seamless integration of electrical controls. 

The design also features a tail lock mechanism, which locks the bridge securely in the raised position – a key safety feature especially important during high winds. The counterweight, composed of ultra-dense concrete, ensures proper balance and efficient operation. 

In March 2025, the Gull Wing won the Bridges Design and Construction Award (above £10 million) at the Bridges Awards 2025. It is also shortlisted for an award at the NCE Bridges 2025 conference in July. 

 

 

 

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