A bridge that has been crashed into dozens of times over the years has been struck once again in Gowerton, temporarily closing the road from vehicle access.
Trafle Mill railway bridge, located on Victoria Road in Gowerton, which has a height limit of 3.3 metres, is a notorious accident blackspot, hit over 30 times in the past decade, often by tall lorries and buses.
As of 2026, it remains one of Wales’ most frequently struck bridges, causing significant traffic delays and rail safety checks.
Despite existing signage and warnings, vehicles continue to hit the bridge. Network Rail has previously installed extra warning signs and laser sensors to alert drivers, but still accidents occur.
The most recent notable vehicle strike occurred in April 2023, when a van hit the bridge, requiring police assistance for traffic management. Other significant strikes in recent years include:
- May 2022: An agricultural vehicle struck the bridge, leading to a temporary road closure for damage assessment.
- August 2020: A Swansea Council refuse collection vehicle (bin lorry) hit the bridge, causing significant tailbacks and disrupting local bus services.
- March 2020: A Kingsmill bread van had its roof sliced off while attempting to pass underneath.
- October 2019: A lorry’s roof was completely ripped off, which prompted rail service delays as a safety precaution.
On this occasion, the road was closed in both directions on the B4296 and the A484 roundabout (near the old ‘the Wave’ studios) for some time, with South Wales Police present.
One local passerby captured the dramatic scenes below.
Thankfully, no one was hurt in the accident, with the Force confirming the road had reopened later in the evening.
[Lead image: Julian Morgan]
