Blackwood/ Chartist Bridge

caerphilly.gov.uk
Press Release | 19.10.2005
Chartist Bridge

The Chartist Bridge is an impressive new landmark

Caerphilly county borough council has officially named a striking new bridge being built as part of a major new road scheme in Blackwood.

The impressive structure, which spans the valley between Oakdale and Blackwood town centre, has been named 'Chartist Bridge' in recognition of the historical link the area has with the Chartist Uprising of the 19th Century.

Many of the protesters involved in the march to Newport in 1839 started their journey from Blackwood and the surrounding communities. The major demonstration led to a bloody confrontation between troops and protesters outside Westgate Hotel in Newport town centre. The Chartist movement demanded that the 'People's Charter' be adopted which set out changes to voting rights and electoral reform.

The council's cabinet agreed the new name at a meeting this week - which is also 'Local Democracy Week'.

Cabinet Member Cllr Keith Griffiths welcomed the decision, "It is timely that 166 years after that fateful day we recognise the part the Chartists played in winning all the benefits we enjoy today. Chartist Bridge marks the point where many protesters, led by Zephaniah Williams, crossed the valley on their fateful march to Newport on the steps of the Westgate Hotel.

"These valleys have a proud heritage and this new structure will act as a major landmark that reflects the past while looking to the future and the benefits this new road scheme will bring the area," he added.

The bridge is part of the Sirhowy Enterprise Way road scheme which will link Blackwood, Oakdale, Pontllanfraith and the surrounding areas. The 4.7 km road will help bring thousands of new jobs to the area by opening up Oakdale Business Park and will also ease traffic congestion in Blackwood Town Centre.

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