Swansea Barrage, Dam and lock complex at River Tawe, Wales.
Swansea Barrage is a dam and lock complex spanning the River Tawe, with control mechanisms that regulate water flow between the river and Swansea Bay. The structure includes a spillway section and turbine systems that generate electricity for the National Grid while maintaining stable water levels for boat navigation.
Construction of the barrage was completed in 1992, transforming the waterfront by converting the former South Dock into an extensive marina. This project marked a major shift of the industrial waterfront into a modern recreational and commercial zone.
The barrage serves as a gathering place where locals engage in water sports and environmental education activities throughout the year. It has become integral to how residents interact with the river and waterfront.
The site is easily accessible with several vantage points along the barrage where you can watch the lock system and water levels. Visiting during different tides offers a better understanding of how the structure operates and its role in managing water flow.
The structure features an advanced aeration system with diffusers and propeller mixers that maintains oxygen levels in the river. This setup allows fish and aquatic life to thrive in what would otherwise be a stagnant area upstream of the lock.
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