News - Ministers open People's Bridge to the people

16th July 2010

The Deputy First Minister was joined today by the Environment Minister Jane Davidson, as well as a host of other local dignitaries to open Pont y Werin.

The £7m bridge, £1.65m committed from the Welsh Assembly Government, will provide pedestrian and cycle crossing access, across the River Ely, linking the Vale of Glamorgan to the International Sports Village in Cardiff Bay.

The Deputy First Minister, who cut the special ribbon to mark the opening of the bridge, said: "I'm delighted to be able to officially open this bridge today which I hope will prove to be a valuable asset to residents of Cardiff and the Vale.

"As we celebrate the 3rd anniversary of the One Wales programme of Government, this investment outlines our commitment to delivering a truly sustainable transport system for Wales and provide people with alternatives to using the car. Encouraging more people walk and cycle across Wales will help reduce their dependence on the car, and contribute to cutting CO2 emissions. We are all aware of the need to reduce our carbon footprint, and walking and cycling instead of driving can help to make a real difference."

Jane Davidson, the Minister for Environment, Sustainability and Housing said, "Development of bridges like the one here at Pont y Werin is a key element of the Assembly Government's Walking and Cycling Action Plan. We know that if we get the built environment right, people will cycle and walk more regularly. This in turn will help Wales to reduce its carbon footprint and will mean that more and more of us are reaping the benefits of a healthy and active lifestyle."

The bridge, which incorporates a 20 metre opening section to allow river traffic to pass, delivers on one of the key commitments towards making Cardiff Wales first Sustainable travel centre.