The proposed design for Lowestoft's long-awaited £90m third crossing has been unveiled today, with inspiration drawn from the town's wind turbine.

Eastern Daily Press: The third crossing would be 12 metres above the highest water mark, meaning it would not have to open on a frequent basis. Picture: WSP.The third crossing would be 12 metres above the highest water mark, meaning it would not have to open on a frequent basis. Picture: WSP. (Image: Archant)

The bridge has been in development ever since conditional funding was granted by the Department for Transport in March 2016, with the crossing design not only focusing on its functionality but also its look and potential to become a new emblem for the town.

Revealed for the first time by Suffolk County Council today, the design reflects Lowestoft's position as one of the UK's key areas for offshore renewable energy, inspired by the town's Gulliver wind turbine.

The bridge will be required to open to maintain the Port of Lowestoft's operations, and the proposed crossing will be 12 metres above the high tide levels, significantly higher than the A47 Bascule Bridge, enabling a larger number of vessels to pass under without a need for it to open.

Colin Noble, leader of Suffolk County Council, said: 'The design of the bridge reflects the forward-thinking attitude of the town and ensures the crossing will be an iconic place in the town alongside its primary role as a route for all road users.

'Inspiration has come from the area surrounding the town and industries emerging from Lowestoft.

'I'm really impressed with the designs and I believe this has the potential to become an iconic structure not only in Suffolk, but across the country.'

To open the bridge, hydraulic pistons will lift the bridge deck, rolling back on the vertical part of the structure, that contains a counterweight, holding the bridge at a specific angle to allow vessels to pass through safely. A control tower would operate the bridge – although no decision has been made on its location yet.

The public will be invited to have their say on the bridge design as part of a consultation which is due to begin on Monday, September 4.

Waveney MP Peter Aldous said: 'The design stage is yet another important milestone of progress towards the Third Crossing over Lake Lothing becoming a reality.

'What is suggested here gives Lowestoft an iconic symbol of future growth based on renewable energy. This illustrates the positive future Lowestoft will have in the next few years.

'I encourage people to fully take part in the consultation as this is their bridge and their views about it are very important.'

What do you think? Email lowestoft.journal@archant.co.uk or write to us using the address on page 35.