The new structure will be a manually operated bascule bridge and will be installed alongside the existing bridge.
The existing bridge is not being removed, it will remain in place next to the new bridge, providing two crossing points at the lock.
The new bridge is designed to remove the risk of bottlenecks along the canal path at the lock. It will feature a counterweight lift which will allow it to be lifted so that boats on the canal can pass underneath it.
Funding for the new bridge has come from Welsh government and Transport for Wales via their active travel fund. Works are scheduled to be completed sometime in late March.
While work is ongoing, the canal towpath will be closed between Bettws Lane and the entrance to the towpath at the bottom of Blaen-Y-Pant Crescent.
A diversion will be in place via Blaen-Y-Pant Crescent during the closure period.
In Pillgwenlly, we are upgrading the paths in the park by Pill Millennium Centre and Jeddo Close.
The upgrades, which include widening some of the paths, will make the paths active travel compliant, providing better facilities for residents to be able to walk, wheel or cycle to the community centre, school and other local amenities.
Funding for these upgrades has also been provided by Welsh government.
“I’m pleased that work has commenced on these upgrades,” said Councillor Rhian Howells, cabinet member for infrastructure and assets.
“Whether it’s for work, school or leisure, these are routes that our residents use every day, and it’s important that we keep them in the best possible condition.
“I’m looking forward to seeing both sites once they have been completed!”
