Gull Wing bridge control tower works progress in Lowestoft

With leading building and civil engineering contractor Farrans Construction overseeing work on the £126.75m Gull Wing bridge, on behalf of Suffolk County Council, the long-awaited third crossing is now due to be opened next year.

It comes after the opening date was pushed back from its original target of December 2023, as work was set back by two months with construction taking longer than expected.

The bridge Control Tower for the Gull Wing in Lowestoft. Picture: Gull Wing Bridge (Image: Gull Wing Bridge)

But as works continue to progress, this week a Gull Wing Bridge spokesman said: "The bridge control tower is now really taking shape.

"With the outside walls now in place work will continue inside with the lift to be installed as well as the internal electrical systems.

"Externally there is still glazing to take place."

The bridge Control Tower for the Gull Wing in Lowestoft. Picture: Gull Wing Bridge (Image: Gull Wing Bridge)

With the control tower required to operate the opening span of the bridge, it is offset from the quay edge.

After the closure of Denmark Road was extended until October 31 to allow for the completion of the new northern roundabout and approach road to the bridge, as well as other works, the main bascule span is expected to be installed in the new year.

Set to transform how traffic moves around the town, the Gull Wing bridge will provide an essential link from Waveney Drive (south) to Denmark Road and Peto Way (north) of Lake Lothing in Lowestoft.

Meanwhile, a 'Public Site Open Day and Tour' - offering people the chance to see the latest progress in construction of the third crossing - on Saturday, October 21 has sold out.

All slots for the three free bookable sessions - which had limited spaces - sold out quickly.

A Gull Wing Bridge spokesman said: "We appreciate the popularity of the event and thank you for your support."