Due to the large dedicated area required for this type of bridge, this design is not common.

A retractable design may be considered when the maximum horizontal clearance is required (for example, over a canal).

A recent example can be found at Queen Alexandra Dock in Cardiff, Wales, where the bridge is jacked upwards before being rolled on wheels.

Helix Bridge at Paddington Basin in London is a more unusual example of the type, consisting of a glass shell supported in a helical steel frame, which rotates as it retracts.

Historical examples of designs for retractable bridges include those by Leonardo da Vinci[2] and Agostino Ramelli.