In many major ports throughout the world, there is an extensive
program of regeneration in place transforming the old redundant
docks into smart new offices, retail, residential and leisure
facilities. Swansea is no exception. Under the Welsh Development
Agency, the
SA1 Swansea Waterside area is being transformed. Part of this
transformation is the construction of two striking new bridges over
the River Tawe - the
Sail Bridge, featured here, and the Lock bridge at the barrage at
the seaward end.
The Sail Bridge was opened in June 2003. Design was by William
Eyre, structural engineers Flint and Neill Partnership, main
contractors Balfour Beatty, and steelwork contractors, Rowecord
Engineering. The bridge is 142 metres long, and the deck is
supported by cables strung from a 40 metre high mast; the design is
inspired by the sail of a yacht. For further technical details
see the
Steel
Construction organization website.
