The regeneration scheme—backed by Neath Port Talbot Council—will restore the Grade II listed structure and introduce a shared pedestrian and cycle track across the bridge, alongside upgrades to Newbridge Road, Riverside Road and Dock Road.
The funding follows an earlier £803,000 Levelling Up allocation awarded in June to support detailed design work for the project. That initial grant allowed the council to begin planning improvements aimed at reducing severance caused by the River Afan and enhancing east-west connectivity across Port Talbot.
Cllr Wyndham Griffiths said the Newbridge Active Travel Link and Dock Access project will “improve walking and cycling connections” and tie into ongoing regeneration work in Civic Square. He added, “It’s very much in keeping with our culture strategy.”
Local Transport Minister Simon Lightwood MP described the bridge as “a fantastic project” that will improve connections, unlock jobs and support economic growth.
Originally opened in 1903 during the expansion of Port Talbot’s docks, the plate-girder bridge is noted by Cadw for its unusual design—carrying a strategic road rather than a railway. The bases of original gas lamp posts still stand on its stone piers.
The total cost of the project is £13.5m, with £1.35m match-funded by the council. The funding announcement comes as part of a wider £301m transport package revealed in the Chancellor’s Spending Review.
