• Active-travel route scheme from Cwmgwili to Ffairfach
• Two single-span bridges installed
• Social Value Partnerships
• Extensive collaboration with Natural Resources Wales
• Supporting safer, more connected walking and cycling links across the Twyi Valley
Project Outline -
Walters is delivering a key section of the new 21km active-travel route connecting Cwmgwili to Ffairfach, a major Carmarthenshire County Council initiative aimed at improving long-distance walking and cycling access throughout the Twyi Valley.
Our allocated 4km stretch includes some of the project’s most technically demanding features, notably the installation of two large single-span pedestrian bridges. These structures, critical to maintaining the continuity of the route, enhance connectivity across the valley, linking communities and supporting sustainable travel, recreation, and tourism.
Project Delivery -
Within our section, we successfully installed two major bridge spans: a 64-metre structure over the River Cothi and a 57-metre structure over the River Tywi, each weighing approximately 110 tonnes. Both operations required precision lifting methodologies and close coordination between engineering teams, crane specialists, and the client.
Given the sensitivity of the working environment, we worked closely with Natural Resources Wales throughout the planning process, particularly when designing and informing the temporary works. The temporary crane pad areas were positioned within a floodplain, requiring extensive environmental assessment, flood-risk planning, and strict compliance to ensure safe, sustainable construction.
Alongside the bridge installations, Walters continued to deliver path formation, drainage works, and embankment stabilisation with minimal disruption to surrounding communities and the local environment.
Added Value & Client Partnership -
By working transparently with Carmarthenshire County Council, Natural Resources Wales, landowners, and local stakeholders, we developed safe and efficient solutions for complex lifting operations and floodplain constraints.
We also worked closely with the local school, providing them the opportunity to watch the second bridge lift live.
Our commitment to safety, environmental protection, and dependable delivery helped maintain programme certainty and contributed to a high-quality active-travel route that will provide long-term social, health, and connectivity benefits across the Tywi Valley.
