A tender process to award the contract for constructing the Lake Lothing Third Crossing in Lowestoft will begin on Monday 14 October 2019.

It comes as a report following the Public Examination has landed on the desk of the Secretary of State for Transport, whose decision whether to grant consent to build the bridge is expected by December 2019.

A similar, comprehensive tender process took place last year, when BAM Nuttall was awarded the contract to finalise the design of the crossing (Stage 1). The project has now moved onto Stage 2, where a firm will be selected to build the bridge.

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

“It is my responsibility as leader of the Council, to ensure that we get the best possible value for the Suffolk taxpayer. We will achieve this by completing the comprehensive tender process.

“When we asked the people of Lowestoft about the Lake Lothing Third Crossing, 96% of those consulted said they thought there was a need for a new bridge. The people of Lowestoft want the new bridge, but some still doubt that it will happen.

“I look forward to reviewing the applications to build this bridge, which will make an incredible difference to Lowestoft and the eastern region.”

The bridge is planned to open in 2022.