Transporter Bridge

220 steps up to the top and a walk across the Usk river is not for the fainthearted! If someone tells you not to look down, don’t do it! While it seems sturdy enough the walkway is full of gaps to see right into the river bed below. I felt a bit lightheaded looking down so kept the head up.
The transporter bridge has been around for a long time although I didn’t get long enough to read all about it other than it’s been there since 1905 or so. The gondola below carries up to 6 cars and many passengers and for each car it costs £1 to get to the other side. Pedestrians cost more as it’s mainly tourists like myself that walk to the top and across. The views were great with views of the Brecon Beacons (as pointed out to me by my friend) and the sea.

Newport’s Transporter Bridge is one of only eight of its type in the world, and three in the UK, and is a grade I listed structure. Currently undergoing repairs, when operational it provides a unique river-​crossing experience.
History
The need for a bridge across the River Usk in Newport, downstream of the existing bridge in the town centre, was identified late in the 19^th century. However, the site was a difficult one because of the very high tidal range of the Bristol Channel and the need to maintain access for high-​masted ships.
Various alternatives were suggested, but the Borough Engineer, R H Haynes, had heard of French Engineer Ferdinand Arnodin, who had designed an ‘Aerial Ferry’. This consisted of two high towers supporting a track, from which was suspended a platform or ‘gondola’ on which passengers or vehicles could ride from one side of the river to the other.
Parliamentary approval was obtained in 1900, and the new ‘bridge’ was completed and opened in 1906. However, by 1985 it had deteriorated so much it had to be closed on safety grounds. It reopened in 1995 after much-​needed repairs, but closed again in 2007 for further repairs. It is due to reopen in summer 2010.
The bridge
The bridge is a magnificent example of Edwardian engineering, and with its 242ft high towers, forms a distinctive landmark. The towers are 645 feet apart either side of the river, and supported by cables. The gondola is pulled across by a cable a maximum speed of 10 feet per second, and can hold half a dozen cars. It is the largest of the type remaining (eight have been lost). Of the two remaining in the UK, the one at Middlesbrough is arguably the most famous, and is still very much in operation. One at Warrington has not worked since 1964 and is in poor condition.
The experience of crossing is unique, as the gondola gently sways when it is breezy, and yet crosses silently with the river below.
Practicalities
See website for operational times once the repairs are completed. There is a Visitor Centre and car park on the western bank.