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The project, called the Newbridge Road Bridge Active Travel Link, will involve reopening it and linking Riverside Road and Newbridge Road to create a safe, accessible route for walking and cycling.   

As part of the scheme, a new shared footway will be developed along Riverside Road, and traffic-calming measures will be introduced on Newbridge Road to improve safety and encourage active travel.  

Neath Port Talbot Council has successfully secured funding for the project from the UK Government’s Levelling Up Fund.   

The re-opening of Newbridge Road Bridge is being considered alongside the wider Sandfields Masterplan, which aims to make it easier for everyone to walk, cycle or wheel for everyday journeys.  
 

How to have your say  
We are holding a public consultation between Monday 2nd February and Sunday 15th March 2026 to gather feedback. 
Full details here: https://www.npt.gov.uk/activetravel#consultations.    
 
Drop-in events  
There are three drop-in events at two locations where you can discuss the proposals with Neath Port Talbot Council and its consultants, Amey.  

Aberavon Leisure Centre, The Princess Margaret Way on:  
•    Thursday 12th February 2026   9am-5pm  
•    Friday 13th February 2026  1pm-7:30pm  
 
Aberafan Shopping Centre, Port Talbot, SA13 1PB on:  
•    Saturday 14th February 2026  9am-12pm  

You can give your feedback via the survey: https://forms.office.com/e/avCjCvTtR2  

Paper copies of the survey will be at the drop in events listed above, as well as at Sandfields Library (where it should also be returned before the consultation closes on 15th March).

What will the Historic Newbridge Road Bridge Restoration offer?  
•    A safe, direct route for pedestrians and cyclists between Sandfields and Port Talbot Docks, supporting regeneration and local access.  
•    An active travel link to Port Talbot Docks, making jobs and training opportunities more reachable without a car.  
•    The restoration and maintenance of a Grade II listed bridge, protecting an important historical asset for future generations.
•    The promotion of walking and cycling, helping residents adopt healthier lifestyles.
•    A dedicated, upgraded route for active travel, reducing risks associated with sharing roads with motor traffic.  

Neath Port Talbot Council’s Cabinet Member for Strategic Planning, Transport and Connectivity, Councillor Wyndham Griffiths said:

“Restoring this Grade II listed bridge will offer more convenience and greener and healthier ways to travel such as cycling and walking.

“This is a local project for locals to benefit from, so I encourage people to give their views on the plans. It would be great to see the bridge being put to good use for our County.”