The red Japanese Bridge at Clyne Gardens, closed since concerns were raised about its structure, is to be repaired, with contractors due on site in the coming weeks.
Swansea Council says the work will renew the rotten deck planks and the anti-slip surface on top of them, replace corroded steel tie-bars, bracing and fixings, and secure a loose post at the bridge’s north-west corner.
Damaged and decayed handrails along the northern approach and the path beside it will be repaired or replaced. The stonework by the stream will be patched, moss and vegetation cleared, and rocks that have been knocked out of place beside the water put back.
A 1973 copy that is itself listed
The bridge is Grade II listed, one of a group of listed structures in the grounds of Clyne Castle, and was built in 1973 as an exact copy of an earlier bridge, the council says.
Cadw‘s listing describes a shallow arched wooden footbridge painted red, with square posts topped by white finials. It dates the original to the years when Admiral Algernon Walker-Heneage-Vivian lived at the castle, from 1921 to 1952, and extended its pleasure grounds.
The Vivian family had owned Clyne Castle since 1860. After the Admiral’s death the borough bought the house and grounds, and opened the gardens as a public park in 1954.
The copy has stood for more than 50 years. Concerns about its structure led the council to close it, and in May it brought in specialist bridge inspectors to carry out detailed surveys.
Mahogany in the handrail, pine in the finials
Tests on the timber found mahogany in part of the parapet handrail and pine in the approach handrails and finials, which the council says will guide the choice of materials for the repairs.
The council says the bridge’s listed status means its appearance, materials and setting will be respected, red-painted timber and white finials included.
Cabinet member Cllr Andrew Stevens said: “The Japanese Bridge is one of Clyne Gardens’ most recognisable and cherished features. Its Grade II listed status reflects its importance to the history and character of the gardens, and we’re committed to restoring it with the care it deserves.”
He added: “For many local people, the bridge is part of their connection with Clyne Gardens, a place for walks, family visits and shared memories. This work will help protect that connection, preserving the bridge’s distinctive appearance while making it safer and more resilient for years to come.”
The bridge was listed on 29 October 1999, 27 years ago this month, for its group value with the castle and the other listed features in the gardens, according to the listing record.
Clyne Gardens, best known for its spring rhododendrons and azaleas, kept its Green Flag in July alongside eight other Swansea parks and green spaces.
The council has not put a cost on the work or said when the bridge will reopen.
It says the aim is to keep the bridge looking as it does now while making it safe for years to come.
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