Caerleon Bridge facts for kids
The Caerleon Bridge is an important bridge in Wales. It crosses the River Usk in the town of Caerleon. This town is part of the city of Newport, Wales. The bridge helps people travel on the B4236 road. It connects different parts of Caerleon.
This sturdy stone bridge was built a long time ago. David Edwards and his team constructed it between 1806 and 1812. It replaced an older bridge that was made of wood. For many years, this narrow bridge was a main route. It carried traffic from Newport to Raglan.
In 1972, a new road called the A449 road opened. This new road helped reduce traffic on Caerleon Bridge. Two years later, in 1974, a special footbridge was added. This footbridge is made of steel and concrete. It gives people a safe place to walk across the river.
The Caerleon Bridge is special for another reason. It is the bridge furthest upstream on the River Usk. There are twelve bridges over the Usk within Newport's city limits. This bridge is the first one you would reach if you traveled up the river.
A piece of history is built into the bridge itself. A foundation stone from the original Newport Bridge is here. It has an inscription that tells a story. It says the bridge was built by David Edwards and his two sons, William and Thomas. It was finished in 1800.
Contents
Exploring Caerleon Bridge
What is Caerleon Bridge?
Caerleon Bridge is a historic stone bridge. It crosses the River Usk in Caerleon, Wales. The bridge helps cars and people get across the river. It is a key part of the local road network.
Who built the bridge?
A man named David Edwards built the bridge. He worked with his two sons, William and Thomas. They built the stone bridge between 1806 and 1812. It was a big project for its time.
Why was a new bridge needed?
The new stone bridge replaced an older wooden one. Wooden bridges do not last as long as stone ones. Building a strong stone bridge made travel safer and easier. It was a big improvement for the area.
How has the bridge changed over time?
The bridge has seen some updates. In 1974, a separate footbridge was added. This made it safer for people to walk across. Before 1972, the bridge was a very busy main road. Now, other roads help carry traffic.
More About Bridges
Other bridges in Wales
Wales has many interesting bridges. They cross rivers, valleys, and even parts of the sea. Each bridge has its own story and design. They help people travel all over the country.
- List of bridges in Wales
