WORKS for a proposed active travel project involving a historic Port Talbot Bridge have taken a step closer this month after funding of more than £800,000 was awarded for designs.
Neath Port Talbot Council has been awarded £803,000 of UK Government funding for detailed design work on an active travel project redeveloping Dock Road, Port Talbot, linking it to Harbour Way.
The project is expected to be worth a total of £13.5 million and would also see work done to the Grade II listed Newbridge Road Bridge.
The bridge was officially opened by the former Aberavon Corporation on October 29, 1903 as a result of expansion at Port Talbot’s docks.
It is part of a scheme that aims to to improve walking and cycling connections as well as”east-west connectivity” in Port Talbot, offering a “safe and continuous route” that avoids the busy Victoria Road.
A council spokesperson said: “The total estimated cost of the proposed project is £13.5m, with £12.3m to come from UK Government funding via the Levelling Up Fund and £1.2m being matched by Neath Port Talbot Council.
“UK Government funding for the project will not be confirmed until early July after a budget review but the design work funding will allow a start to be made on the scheme.”
