Gelli-Isaf Tramroad Bridge, Abernant Tramroad

Cadw's description

Summary description and reason for designation

The following provides a general description of the Scheduled Ancient Monument.

The monument consists of the remains of a bridge, dating to the early 19th century. The Abernant tramroad was built in 1805. It ran from the head of the Neath Canal at Glynneath, via Hirwaun to the Llwydcoed and Abernant Ironworks at Aberdare, crossing the gorge of the Cynon by a masonry bridge. The bridge consists of a single round-headed arch resting on a rectangular pier. The bridge is faced with coursed stone with a wide deep segmental arch with stone voussoir, flanked by pilasters; the stone blocks of a tramroad still remain on the bridge deck.

The monument is of national importance for its potential to enhance our knowledge of 19th century industrial construction techniques and transportation systems. It retains significant archaeological potential, with a strong probability of the presence of associated archaeological features and deposits. The structure itself may be expected to contain archaeological information concerning chronology and building techniques.

The scheduled area comprises the remains described and areas around them within which related evidence may be expected to survive.