RCT Council has provided an update on the Riverside Footbridge replacement in Llwydcoed – with the new structure having recently been assembled on site and lifted into place, ahead of its planned opening to the public in November.
The former footbridge provided a key link for pedestrians and cyclists between the community of Llwydcoed and the Cynon Trail, but the structure was in a poor condition and needed to be replaced. A significant replacement scheme started in July, and it will install a new structure that is wider and more suitable for the community.
The scheme is being delivered using important funding that was secured by the Council from Welsh Government’s Active Travel Fund for 2024/25.
Since work started on site during the summer, the Council’s contractor Horan Construction Ltd has carried out important repairs to the river wall and has constructed the abutments – in readiness to take delivery of the new bridge.
The most-recent site activity has seen the new bridge structure being transported to the works site in several components. These elements were then assembled on site before the bridge was lifted into place over the river. This activity in recent weeks is illustrated by the above photos.
Please be aware, while the replacement bridge is now in place, it still remains closed to the public. This is essential to ensure safety for the remainder of the scheme, which is anticipated to be completed next month. A key outstanding activity includes casting the ramp support walls at either side of the bridge.
Pedestrians and cyclists should continue to use the alternative route that is being clearly signposted. This remains available via Lon Las, Cwmynysminton Road, Llwydcoed Road and the Cynon Trail – or this route in reverse order. Access over the footbridge cannot be maintained for emergency services.
Councillor Andrew Morgan OBE, Leader of Rhondda Cynon Taf Council and Cabinet Member for Infrastructure and Investment, said: “This bridge replacement in Llwydcoed represents one of this year’s key investments in active travel, having secured full funding from Welsh Government. Recent site activity has seen the contactor receive the components of the new bridge at the site, assemble the structure, and lift it into place over the river. These are key milestones towards the project’s planned completion in the weeks ahead.
“The wider £6.2m allocation from the 2024/25 Active Travel Fund is enabling us to progress several schemes this year, to improve local infrastructure and help encourage more people to walk and cycle more often as part of their everyday journeys. Other projects being that are being progressed in this year’s programme include Cynon Trail enhancements at Cwmbach, Taff Trail upgrades at Trallwn, town centre schemes in Pontypridd and Aberdare – and further delivery and design work for the Rhondda Fach Active Travel Route.
“With the Riverside Bridge scheme in Llwydcoed now entering its final stages, officers are reminding residents that the bridge remains closed – even though the new structure is now in position. This is to ensure safety, as the contractor still has several activities to be carried out to the bridge. Thank you to the community for your continued patience, as we work towards future-proofing this key structure and maintaining the popular local link onto the Cynon Trail.”
