Designed by Wilkinson Eyre Architects / Gifford & Partners and built by Gateshead-based construction company - Harbour & General, the bridge was opened on Monday 20th November 2000. It is still the world's first and only tilting bridge! The unique design is based on the simple idea of a pair of steel arches - one is the deck, the other supports the deck. The whole bridge tilts, undergoing a metamorphous into a grand arch, in an operation that evokes the slow opening of a huge eye. People were amazed when this bridge first opened and I am sure in 100 years time they will still be in awe. Follow this link to see a timelapse video http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S7nXXy1NhpM