The Gull Wing Bridge in Lowestoft, built by Northern Ireland-based civil engineering contractor Farrans, has been officially opened by Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal.

The bridge, which was constructed on behalf of Suffolk County Council and provides a long-awaited third crossing over Lake Lothing, opened publicly to pedestrians, cyclists and vehicles in September and is already bringing huge benefits through reduced congestion and improved mobility around the town.

At the opening, the Princess was introduced to people and teams that worked on the bridge project, including with the planning, design and construction.

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During a tour of the bridge, The Princess Royal saw the bascule wings up close before unveiling a commemorative plaque, formally opening the iconic structure.

Councillor Matthew Hicks, the leader of Suffolk County Council, said: "It was a great honour for Suffolk to welcome Her Royal Highness to Lowestoft to open this landmark bridge.

"It is a wonderful piece of engineering that is already bringing significant benefits to the town and will do so for decades to come, so it was only fitting it should receive a Royal visit to formally mark its opening."

Minister for the Future of Roads, Lilian Greenwood added: “I know the importance of the Gull Wing Bridge to the people of East Suffolk. It will be transformational for local people and businesses.

“Our £73 million investment in this iconic structure will improve journey times through the town, and better connect communities to spread growth as we embark on our decade of national renewal.”