Newport Transporter Bridge Visitors Centre

Following a competitive tender process, our team was entrusted with the task of building the state-of-the-art visitor centre for the iconic Newport Transporter Bridge. This Grade I listed structure is a powerful symbol of Newport’s industrial and maritime heritage, commissioned by Newport City Council and supported by funding from the Welsh Government, National Heritage Lottery Fund, and the Wolfson Foundation, the project was part of a broader £13.7 million initiative to restore the bridge and elevate visitor experiences.

The visitor centre, designed by AWW Architects, was developed with sustainability and inclusivity at its core. It incorporates environmentally friendly materials and energy-efficient systems, aligning with Newport City Council’s sustainability goals. Furthermore, the building is fully accessible, ensuring visitors of all abilities can enjoy the centre, it’s exhibits and the bridge itself.

This new build project first required site preparation, starting with demolition and clearance of the small existing visitors’ centre. We then dug and installed the pile foundations which were concerted in place creating a robust foundation to support the structure. A steel framework was then erected and concrete slabs poured to form the building’s skeleton. Once the building frame was securely in place the robust external cladding was installed. The cladding was chosen not only for its durability but to ensure that it was aesthetically in keeping with the historic Grade I listed bridge. Mechanical and electrical systems were integrated to ensure both energy efficiency and functionality. Accessibility was prioritised with the installation a lift and central staircase, providing seamless access throughout the building, as well as to the multiple terraces and link-bridge.

The interior was meticulously finished to include essential visitor amenities such as W/C’s, educational spaces, display areas, and a café. External landscaping further enhanced the surroundings, with significant attention given to consolidating the riverside barrier to ensure safety by embedding sheet piles and then securing them with concrete beams.

The installation of the link-bridge connecting the visitors centre to the transporter bridge enabling visitors to access the bridge seamlessly, came towards the end of the project and felt like a landmark moment, literally bridging the gap between old and new

The riverside location, designated as both a Special Area of Conservation and a Site of Special Scientific Interest, posed environmental and logistical challenges. However, these were effectively managed to ensure no harm to local habitats or species.

Delivering social value is at the core of our company mission and was a cornerstone of this project from the outset. Working closely with Newport Council and our other local contacts to team worked consistently throughout the duration of the project to include the community.

At the very start of the project local artist Andy O’Rourke was invited, along with students from Coleg Gwent collaborating to transform the site hoardings into vibrant street art. The students came from all over Newport from Pill to St Julians, and Bettws. Andy led the students and their learning to create a fantastic piece of art, exhibiting their creative talents, producing stunning visuals that celebrated the community.

Alex Jenkins, Commercial Director of John Perkins Construction “We’re keen to get the community involved as the Newport Transporter Bridge Visitor Centre build kicks off. There’s so much talent among the local students of Newport, and we’re excited to showcase that talent on the hoardings that surround our site. What they’ve been able to create is truly stunning.”

Walking tours were hosted for local students, businesses, and construction groups such as Women in Construction. The site was also included in the annual Chepstow Walking Festival, providing valuable insights into the construction and restoration process for the wider community.

Site Manager, Hayden Pickett, initiated a Christmas foodbank collection in collaboration with many of our supply chain to support local charity The Warehouse Church, with generous contributions from as Ash Health and Safety Consultancy Ltd and Morgans of Usk Ltd and others. These efforts highlight our team’s dedication to supporting the local communities that we work in. The project was also registered with the Considerate Contractor Scheme, earning “Excellent” ratings in both inspections.

The project has taken over 2 years to complete, overcoming varied complexities with the help of good communication between JPC and the client team. This inspiring centre was designed and built with its visitors in mind, but also pays homage to Newport and The Transporter Bridge’s heritage. The project has fostered meaningful engagement with the local community through art, education, and charitable initiatives, leaving we hope, a lasting positive impact.