One of Swansea city centre’s biggest ever transformation projects has been given the planning go-ahead.
Full planning permission has been granted for the £120m Swansea Central Phase Onescheme.
It means that building could start soon for a 3,500-capacity digital indoor arena, coastal park, digital plaza, “gateway” landmark pedestrian bridge, new homes and premises for retail, food and drink.
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The project is likely to be a catalyst for city-wide regeneration.
Council leader Rob Stewart said:
“This is a big day for Swansea. Today’s final planning decision allows us to progress swiftly with one of our city’s biggest ever transformation projects.
“Our 3,500-capacity state-of-the-art arena will be the first such venue in the UK to be wrapped in a dynamic digital skin
“It will be a unique draw for Swansea, will generate hundreds of new jobs and a significant annual boost to the local economy.
“It will help us attract more hotels, retailers, restaurants and other leisure offerings.”
Cllr Stewart was adamant that Swansea Central Phase One would provide a kick start for future development and growth.
He said: “Today’s approval by the planning committee is not the end of the journey but the start.
“The Kingsway and neighbouring roads are already being transformed into a fabulous, people-friendly environment and further planning applications will be submitted for that area’s digital district – this will be a perfect environment for tech companies to grow.
“We are also working hard to bring to fruition an upgrade for Castle Gardens, to create a Swansea Central Phase Two project and to develop our Civic Centre site.”
“More major investment announcements will follow in the coming months as we deliver more and illustrate why Swansea is such a great place to invest.
“Swansea has always had great people who make this place unique – it has always been a very special place. Now we are giving it a once-in-a-lifetime lift; Swansea Central Phase One and other major projects will truly transform our wonderful city and further strengthen our great sense of civic pride.”
The plans for Swansea Central Phase One won overwhelming public support.
They will deliver a dramatic, innovative and hi-tech new look for a huge area of land between the core shopping district and the Marina.
The scheme will be built over the next two years either side of Oystermouth Road – on the LC car park and St Mary’s car park. It will border buildings such as Tesco, St David’s Church and the LC.
