The redevelopment of Swansea city centre has taken a step forward with the installation of a striking new footbridge.
The 160ft long golden bridge over Oystermouth Road will form a pedestrian link to the under-construction concert and events arena.
The structure was raised into position in a lengthy operation on Saturday night, and the council hopes it will become a landmark for the area.
It is expected that the bridge will be ready for use in the second half of the year, ahead of the opening of the new arena which is scheduled to be completed in 2021.
The pedestrian and cyclist bridge will improve access between the city and the marina and coast, and replaces a 40-year-old concrete footbridge by the LC leisure centre that was demolished last year.
Rob Stewart, leader of Swansea Council, welcomed the installation of the bridge.
He said: "This is another big milestone in the transformation of our city.
"With its bold design and striking façade that will complement the new state-of-the-art arena, the bridge will become a stunning new landmark for the city and an emblem nationally and internationally of a modern welcoming city.
"The work we're doing couldn't be more timely for Swansea and Wales as we emerge from the pandemic.
"We're transforming the landscape, and we're creating jobs, new opportunities and a new future for our city centre. The bridge, when completed, will be part of that bright future."
The bridge is part of the redevelopment of the area which includes the new 3,500 seat arena next to the existing leisure centre, a coastal park and outdoor spaces, flats, commercial units, and a multi-storey car park - together the scheme has been christened Copr Bay in a nod to Swansea's copper industry heritage.
The area will be linked to the rest of the city centre by a new street running from near St Mary's church which will be named Cupid Way in honour of athlete Cyril Cupid, the first Welshman to run the 100m sprint in under 10 seconds.
The distinctive golden bridge was designed architects ACME along with Swansea artist Marc Rees.
Fredrich Ludewig, design director, for ACME said the footbridge was a "true piece of international innovation" for Swansea.
He said: "ACME worked with Brussels-based structural engineers Ney & Partner to design this bridge made from steel plate. The iconic arch stabilizes the super-slender bridge deck and creates a new urban space floating over the road, enclosed by patterned steel offering glimpses across the road, the arena and the new coastal park.
"Until now, Oystermouth Road was for cars, not people. The bridge will be a stepping stone for a greener and more liveable Swansea city centre."
