GM347

Iron Tram Bridge, Robertstown  

 

Designated  

Rhondda Cynon Taff  

Llwydcoed  

299711  

203630  

Transport  

Bridge  

Post Medieval/Modern  

The following provides a general description of the Scheduled Ancient Monument. The monument consists of the remains of a very early cast iron bridge, dating to 1811. The bridge measures c. 3m wide by c. 10m long and crosses the River Cynon at Robertstown. It comprises a decking of 17 cast iron plates supported on four parallel lattice beams between stone abutments. Cast on a pillar of the bridge is the inscription 'Abernant 1811' (Abernant was a local iron foundry). It was built to carry the Llwydcoed tramroad which ran from Hirwaun to Cwmbach. 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.