Over 100 attendees from local, regional and national businesses heard how they could be involved in the supply chain for Lowestoft’s Lake Lothing Third Crossing, at an event in Lowestoft today (6 June 2019).

This nationally significant project will see a much-needed bridge connecting the north and south of Lowestoft, if consent to build it is given later this year.

Attendees were given an update on the progress of the crossing, details on how to register their interest to be a supplier and how they will be able to submit quotations for potential work.

Jon Barnard, Project Manager at Suffolk County Council, said:

“I’m delighted to see so many local businesses represented here today. It is important to us that we give the local economy every opportunity to be involved in the construction of the bridge.

“With a such a large-scale project as this, the supply chain will need to involve a huge range of businesses. We will need everything from specialist mechanical and electrical equipment through to welfare services, security and accommodation.”

Councillor Matthew Hicks, leader of Suffolk County Council, added:

“I’m excited by the prospect that a cross section of local businesses, whether small, medium or large, will contribute to this future landmark of the Suffolk skyline, during its construction.

“Once open, the crossing will improve travel across the town, further boost the local economy and make Lowestoft an even more attractive centre for new businesses.

“I’m delighted to see that the project is already establishing itself in the local community, with contractors currently running sessions in local schools. Children are learning about the benefits of the crossing, how it will be built and all the potential jobs on offer – opening their eyes to new career possibilities as Suffolk’s Energy Coast develops.”

Pat Spillings, Managing Director of Lowestoft-based P J Spillings Builders Ltd, said:

“For Suffolk County Council to provide the opportunity for local companies to be considered to work on this exciting project, and providing local employment, came as welcome news. Today’s event was beneficial to get an overview of the project and meet the other interested businesses.”

The last of the hearings have now been held as part of the Planning Inspectorate’s examination period. Inspectors now have until early September to submit their report and recommendation to the Secretary of State, who will then make a decision whether to grant consent for construction. This decision is expected in early December 2019.

Work on the bridge has been continuing throughout the examination period. The engineering and design contract was awarded to BAM Nuttall in November 2018, who have been progressing the final details with support from engineering design house ARUP. The contract for the construction phase of the project will be announced later this year.

More details of how businesses can get involved in the project will be made available soon, for those who were not able to attend.

All the latest information on the Lake Lothing Third Crossing can be found online

https://www.suffolk.gov.uk/roads-and-transport/transport-planning/lake-lothing-3rd-crossing/