The bridge carries the A63 road through the south of the city connecting the west and east regions of Hull.

[12] The bridge, which was designed by Bernard Wex of Freeman Fox and Partners, stretches for 83 metres (272 ft) across the river, and swing section weighs 800 tonnes (880 tons).

Due to this, much of the extra concrete and steel was used on the back of the shorter span to balance out the weight and provide ballast for the swing operation as a kentledge.

[19] The design was envisaged with vessels to a maximum gross weight of 1,500 tonnes (1,700 tons) and no more than 60 metres (200 ft) in length.

Due to these constraints and associated additional city centre infrastructure, it was decided that a swing span would be better than a lifting bridge.

[7] The mechanism to swing the bridge open takes 150 seconds, creating a clear passage of 98 feet (30 m) for river vessels.

[22] By 2004, it was carrying about 40,000 vehicles a day, and was required to open to river traffic on average ten times per month.

[27] Whilst these renovations were underway, the repair team needed seven days notice for any vessels which required the bridge to be swung open as this would involve moving plant machinery and enabling the balance to be correct.