LKAB Minerals played crucial role in bridge design and build

LKAB Minerals, a leading provider of high-quality industrial minerals and a global expert in mining and material processing, is proud to announce its recent win in the Bridges Design and Construction Award at the Bridges Award 2025, held at the Coventry Building Society (CBS) Arena. The Gull Wing Bridge, which won the award, is a groundbreaking structure that represents the future of bridge engineering, and LKAB Minerals played a pivotal role in making the iconic design a reality.

The award was presented to Arup, the lead designer on the project, which was recognised for its exceptional design and construction of the world’s largest rolling bascule bridge lifted by hydraulic cylinders. While Arup received the award on behalf of the project, LKAB Minerals’ contribution was crucial in enabling the bridge’s unique design and functionality.

The Bridges Awards, introduced by Bridge Design and Engineering magazine and organised in partnership with the Bridge Owners Forum and the Bridges Conference and Exhibition, are held biennially to recognise and honour outstanding achievements in the bridge industry. The awards celebrate the ingenuity, project management, and collaborative efforts of individuals and organisations involved in the design, construction, and maintenance of pedestrian, highway, and rail bridges in the UK.

The award-winning Gull Wing bridge, officially opened on 7^th September 2024 by HRH The Princess Royal, features striking wing-shaped arms that provide the counterweight enabling the bridge to be quickly and efficiently lifted. These wings were made possible through the use of LKAB Minerals’ MagnaDense, a high-density iron ore aggregate that was vital in achieving the precise counterweight required for the bridge’s design. The density and functionality of MagnaDense was what ensured the counterweight was perfectly balanced, enabling the innovative bascule mechanism to operate smoothly.

Richard Hunt, Magnetite Sales Manager at LKAB Minerals, played a key role in supporting stakeholders throughout the project, working closely with Arup, Suffolk County Council, Farrans Construction, Capital Concrete, and Camfaud Concrete Pumps. The collaboration included rigorous testing, including a full-size mock-up of the wings conducted four months prior to the actual installation.

Richard commented on the success of the project: “We are incredibly proud of our involvement in the Gull Wing Bridge project. While our material may not have been the most voluminous component, it was essential in enabling the design and functionality of the bridge. Our close partnerships helped ensure that the bridge would perform as required, making it a truly innovative structure that is well-deserving of this award.”

The Gull Wing Bridge serves as a prime example of how LKAB Minerals’ products and technical expertise can contribute to landmark engineering projects. The award win is a testament to the strong relationships and dedication that LKAB Minerals maintains with its partners across the construction and engineering sectors