The Copr Bay Bridge over Oystermouth Road is designed to improve access for pedestrians and cyclists between the city, the marina and the coastline.
Council leader Rob Stewart said: “This is another big milestone in the transformation of our city. With its bold design and striking façade that will complement the new state-of-the-art arena, the bridge will become a stunning new landmark for the city and an emblem nationally and internationally of a modern welcoming city.”
The installation process was overseen by Buckingham Group Contracting, which is main contractor for the first phase of the council's Copr Bay regeneration project. SH Structures was hired for the building and installation of the bridge. The operation to move the bridge into place was carried out using two mobile transporter units supplied by Sarens. Panel delivery for the bridge had begun in September 2020 (link opens in new tab).
Swansea-born artist Marc Rees, who designed the pattern on the bridge's side panels in collaboration with architect Acme, said: “It's been a difficult time recently, especially for the cultural sector, so the bridge installation is timely as we need a positive and aspirational symbol.”
Friedrich Ludewig, design director for Acme said: "The new bridge is a true piece of international innovation for Swansea." Acme worked with Brussels-based structural engineer Ney & Partner to design the bridge, which is made from steel plate.
“The iconic arch stabilises the super-slender bridge deck and creates a new urban space floating over the road, enclosed by patterned steel offering glimpses across the road, the arena and the new coastal park," said Ludewig.
It is expected that the bridge will be ready for use in the second half of this year, ahead of the opening of the regeneration project's arena which is on schedule to be completed this year.