List of lattice girder bridges in the United Kingdom
A lattice girder or truss is often defined only in two dimensions, that is (in the case of a bridge) the structure as seen from the side.
[1] Such definitions sufficed for the early lattice girders such as the US Town truss which was designed for construction in timber.
Early iron structures using a Town-type lattice replicated this appearance, leading to the instantly recognisable lattice-work shown in the bridges in Part A of this list.
Thus, on closer examination, the delicate appearance of these early iron lattices is belied by this much more complex stiffening in the thickness or third dimension.
In later forms, various developments took place: for example, the lattice became less dense and each individual diagonal thus much more substantial; vertical members were introduced; and eventually both diagonal and vertical members achieved cross-sectional dimensions comparable to those of the main top and bottom components, thus forming what is more commonly known as a truss.
Bennerley Viaduct photographed from Nottingham Canal Towpath in 2006