New Taff Bridge: Cardiff’s Latest Development Over a Historic Shipwreck
A new Taff bridge, is set to be built over the River Taff in Cardiff, spanning a historic shipwreck hidden beneath the water. This exciting development will see the construction of a six-metre-wide structure stretching 165 metres in length, with a 60-metre span and three supporting pillars in the river. The new Taff Bridge will create a crucial link between The Marl and Hamadryad Park in Grangetown, enhancing connectivity for pedestrians and cyclists.
A Modern Connection with a Historic Past
The new Taff Bridge is part of the wider redevelopment of the Channel View estate and is currently in the planning stages. The project includes seating areas in the middle of the bridge, allowing visitors to pause and take in the stunning views of the River Taff. However, what lies beneath this new landmark is of significant historical importance.
Submerged under the waters of the Taff are the remains of Louisa, a large merchant ship that was wrecked off the coast of Grangetown. This historic vessel now rests beneath the proposed site of the new Taff Bridge, hidden beneath the river’s surface south of Jim Driscoll Way along the Cardiff Bay Trail.
The Protected Shipwreck Beneath the New Taff Bridge
Designated a scheduled monument in 2001, the Louisa shipwreck is legally protected due to its historical significance. It joins Cardiff’s other prestigious heritage sites, such as Castell Coch, Cardiff Castle, the Roman Fort, and Blackfriars Priory in Bute Park. The wreck, dating back to the 19th century, lies embedded in silt on the western bank of the River Taff, between Clarence Bridge and the PDR Bridge.
Before the impoundment of Cardiff Bay, the wreck was occasionally visible during low tides when fluctuating water levels exposed it. The new Taff Bridge will now stand over this fascinating maritime relic, adding another layer of historical intrigue to the city’s modern developments.
The Importance of the Louisa Shipwreck
According to its scheduled monument description, the Louisa is of national importance due to its potential to enhance understanding of maritime transport. The site retains significant archaeological value, with a high likelihood of associated features and deposits still present beneath the riverbed.
Originally registered in Bristol, the Louisa was listed under Cardiff’s registry from 1872. It was likely used for transporting Canadian timber to Bideford and Bristol. The vessel last appeared in the Lloyd’s Register in 1902, under the ownership of Joseph Rees from Aberaeron.
The Future of the New Taff Bridge
If planning permission is granted, the new Taff Bridge will offer a vital new route across the River Taff, seamlessly blending modern infrastructure with Cardiff’s rich maritime history. As this project progresses, it will not only improve connectivity in the city but also bring attention to the hidden historical treasures lying beneath Cardiff’s waters.
