The Jiangyin Yangtze River Highway Bridge is a dual three-lane, 1385m-span suspension bridge that crosses the Yangtze River and forms a vital part of the expressway network of Jiangsu Province, China. Innovative engineering was required to meet the challenges faced during the design and construction of the bridge and its successful completion was achieved by the effective co-operation between Chinese and British designers, consultants and contractors. This paper outlines the studies undertaken to select the preferred location and form of the bridge. The development of the design of the principal elements of the bridge is discussed and the construction process described. During the project's planning and implementation, full consideration was given to the social development, safety, environmental and economic issues that were essential to ensuring the overall sustainability of this major river crossing. These aspects are covered in the second half of the paper.