Pen y Fai, Bridgend, CF31 4LQ
The Duffryn Llynfi & Porthcawl Tramroad opened in 1829 with the very unusual gauge of 4 ft. 7 ins. to carry coal from the Llynfi valley to the sea. It was the first example of a port development and railway promoted by the same company. It became part of the GWR and the gauge was accordingly widened before being reduced later to the standard gauge. The line closed when Porthcawl ceased to be a port due to competition from other ports, and became a seaside resort.
It crossed the Ogmore river on a three arch masonry bridge of solid proportions and with unusual tiered cut-waters. The bridge now carries a road.
By road: The minor road over the bridge leaves the A 4063 north of Pen y Fai. It is nearly beneath the M4 motorway where it is carried over the Ogmore valley.
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Forgotten Relics - Listed Bridges and Viaducts
