Bridge survey works at Machine Bridge North Broadway, Treforest, Pontypridd

What was proposed

Retrospective listed building consent was sought for targeted structural investigations and temporary opening-up of the bridge fabric.

“As alluded to in the application description, Members are advised that the application is retrospective and that the works comprised a series of targeted survey investigations, which required temporary opening-up of the bridge fabric at specified locations.”

Officer report

The site and its history

The Grade II* bridge carries a footway and cycle route across the River Taff and has important industrial archaeological and historic interest.

“The bridge carries a single footway and cycle route across the River Taff, extending from the western bank at the south-eastern end of Broadway, adjacent to St Dyfrig’s Church, to the eastern bank where it connects with the A470 at the Glyntaff Interchange.”

“The bridge spans the channel of the River Taff, perpendicular to its flow. There are two more modern structures immediately downstream to Machine Bridge North, Machine Bridge South and Pont Richard Griffiths which accommodate vehicular traffic across the River Taff, at this location. Machine Bridge South carries two lanes of eastbound traffic and Pont Richard Griffiths carries two lanes of westbound traffic.”

Officer report

Why officers supported it

Officers considered the works minor, justified and conservation-led, with temporary disturbance reinstated and benefits for the bridge’s long-term sustainability.

“Consequently, it is considered that the harm caused by these temporary interventions is outweighed by the public benefits of ensuring the long-term sustainability and viability of the bridge. By facilitating targeted repairs, the works have safeguarded the bridge’s continued role as a key access route across the Taff, while securing its architectural and historic significance for future generations…”

“Any impact is considered minor, and the information gained by the applicant will be essential in informing future conservation. In conclusion, it is not considered that the works have materially harmed the significance of Machine Bridge or its wider setting.”

Officer report

Public and heritage responses

Notifications, a site notice and a press notice produced no responses, and the consulted heritage organisations had not responded.

“This has included the direct notification of properties surrounding the site and the erection of site notices. A press notice has also been published in a local newspaper; however, no responses have been received as a result of this exercise.”

“Consultation was undertaken with the Joint Committee of the National Amenity Societies who are responsible for each of the National Amenity Societies as well as the Royal Commission on the Ancient and Historical Monuments of Wales. At the time of writing this report, no responses have been received.”

Officer report

The committee presentation

The Head of Major Development and Investment presented the application to the committee.

The committee decision

The committee approved the application in accordance with the recommendation of the Director, Housing and Regeneration.

“The Head of Major Development and Investment presented the application to Committee and following consideration it was RESOLVED to approve the application in accordance with the recommendation of the Director, Housing and Regeneration.”

Minutes