The link that can make Neath thrive once again

A steam train crossing the River Neath Swing Bridge

The bridge provides a link between the Neath Valley rail lines to the main Swansea-Paddington line at Briton Ferry.   This is the route for any Neath Valley rail scenic excursion - like the one shown by Mike Davies on Youtube.

History
The Rhondda and Swansea Bay Railway was incorporated in 1882 but was not completed until 1900, the original plans having been extensively modified. The line between Neath and Swansea, crossing the River Neath, was authorised in 1892. The bridge was built 1892-4 with a swing portion of 52 metres and a gross weight of 1422 tonnes. The chief engineer was S.W. Yockney, the resident engineer was F.E. Goldwyre and the contractor was George Palmer. Steelwork was supplied by Finch & Co of Chepstow. It was originally hydraulically operated, the machinery supplied by William Armstrong of Newcastle, but is now fixed.  It is now a Grade II listed structure.

A diesel train crossing the River Neath Swing Bridge

(Google images)

Thought should be given to restoring valley industries like the former Cam Gears at Resolven - the rail infrastucture is there.

Sometimes you have to make things happen.   Let's bring life back to the Neath Valleys!