New opening bridge providing a vital road, cycle and pedestrian connection across the waterway, reducing traffic congestion and promoting waterside regeneration in Lowestoft. Working within WSP’s multi-disciplinary team Matter acted as architectural design adviser for the wider bridge project and concept architect for the control tower.

The bridge creates a distinctive new landmark on the horizon, with a 35m span rolling bascule central section that opens to allow port shipping to pass. As well as a two-lane highway it includes generous pedestrian and cycle paths and landscaped areas at both approaches. The control tower, clad in coloured and patterned stainless steel, includes a raised control room for bridge operation as well as plant for the opening mechanism. Sheltered below the cantilevered control room, a public deck provides views and display area.

The concept design also allows for the future addition of public access stairs and enlarged public lift between the bridge and the quayside below, which can be easily added once the planned waterside development is advanced. Following DCO approval, the bridge, named the Gull Wing Bridge from a children’s competition, was delivered through design/build contract and opened in 2024.

Client: Suffolk County Council

Cost: £76m

Status: Opened 2024

Team (concept design): WSP, Matter, KGAL