Introduction
Newport's new Footbridge and Cycle Bridge was lifted into position in May 2006. The tallest crane in the UK was used, arriving on 48 articulated lorries, to help lift the 70 m high (229 ft), 850 tonne footbridge.
It took approximately a week to assemble the main structure of the bridge. The footbridge spans the River Usk and forms a key part of the regeneration plans by allowing quick and easy access for pedestrians travelling from the east into the City Centre. The bridge features four crane-like masts, standing in pairs, which support the bridge from the west bank.
The forward mast is 80 m (262 ft) long and the back mast is 69 m (226 ft) long, but because of the angles at which the masts are positioned, the back mast is the tallest part of the structure above ground level. The deck is 5 m (16 ft) wide, 145 m (476 ft) long and 4.1 m (13.5 ft) above water at mean tide.
Contractors for the footbridge were Alfred McAlpine; the design team was led by Atkins special structures group, with architects Grimshaw providing the concept and design services. Newport-based Rowecord Engineering manufactured the footbridge.
The footbridge will serve existing communities, the new developments and the rugby club and will create a direct access to the new shopping centre and the city’s commercial core.
Download the Newport City Footbridge Information Sheet (1.02MB) 
