UK, February 2025 – More than a decade after its inauguration, Acrospire worked
with Centregreat to deliver a stunning, yet sustainable handrail lighting retrofit to the
Newport City Footbridge.

Newport City footbridge (often referred to locally as the Millennium Bridge) gracefully
spans the River Usk in South Wales, linking the Rodney Parade stadium area on the
east bank to University Plaza on the west. Opened in 2006, its distinctive white
crane-like structures pay tribute to the city’s industrial heritage while embracing a
modern aesthetic. Over the years, this pedestrian and cycle route has won multiple
awards, including recognition from the British Constructional Steelwork Association
and the Institution of Civil Engineers in Wales.

More than a decade after its inauguration, the footbridge handrail required a lighting
upgrade to maintain safety, reduce energy consumption, and protect the local
habitat.

Working with Centregreat, the council’s electrical engineering team, Acrospire’s
approach was to retrofit 178 existing strip casings—previously housing 28W
fluorescent tubes—with new 12W LED gear tray units, specified in a warm 3000K
colour temperature. The installation was streamlined by reusing the current
housings, and material waste was reduced.

Where required, an asymmetric distribution ensures that the walkway remains safely
illuminated while minimising light spill onto the river below. Upgrading from 28W to

12W per unit translates to an estimated 57% energy saving, a substantial reduction
that significantly lowers operational costs. The warm white 3000K LEDs maintain a
welcoming ambience, eliminating harsh glare and enhancing user comfort as they
cross.

The newly installed LED solution ensures that the Newport City footbridge remains a
standout feature of the city’s skyline. Pedestrians and cyclists benefit from improved
visibility, reinforcing a sense of safety at all hours.

This reduced energy consumption and targeted illumination reflect Newport’s
commitment to environmental stewardship by avoiding unnecessary light pollution
and safeguarding the river habitat. In the long term, lower maintenance requirements
support the city’s objective of developing resilient infrastructure while honouring the
bridge’s iconic design.

Mike Marshall, Contracts Manager, Centregreat, comments, “Newport City footbridge
has become an unmistakable symbol of the city’s regeneration. Our retro fit lighting
solution upgrade, not only enhances safety and sustainability but also preserves the
bridge’s stunning architectural presence for years to come.”