Helping to boost footfall and support traders, plans for a major new development in Swansea city centre have taken a big step forward.
Planning consent has now been granted for a public sector hub building at the former St David’s Shopping Centre site.
The development will include commercial floor space for shops and restaurants, with the council occupying office space above with a range of other public sector partners.
Made up of four floors above ground level and one floor below, hundreds of workers will be based there.
Swansea Council and its regeneration partners Urban Splash will develop the proposed public sector hub, with ownership retained by the council. This would form the first phase of the overall site’s redevelopment being led by Urban Splash, who are continuing to work on plans for the rest of the site.
The public sector hub would also enable the redevelopment of the Civic Centre site on the seafront.
Urban Splash are continuing to work on proposals for that site, which will be made available for public feedback as soon as they’re finalised.
Cllr Rob Stewart, Swansea Council Leader, said: “The public sector hub will help generate more footfall in the city centre, which will boost our existing traders and help attract more investment in future.
“This is just one feature of an overall plan for the redevelopment of the former St David’s Shopping Centre site though, so we’ll continue to work with Urban Splash on other proposals for the site that will be announced as soon as they’re ready for feedback.
“Our plans for this development site are part of a £1bn regeneration programme that’s unfolding in Swansea to benefit our residents and businesses. This shows how committed we are to creating jobs and high-quality facilities as Swansea is transformed into one of the UK’s best cities to live, work, enjoy, study and visit.
“Alongside our partners in the private sector and others, this work is bearing fruit.
“Swansea’s economy is projected to be the seventh fastest growing in the UK next year, which is testament to all that’s been achieved so far and our plans for the future.”
David Warburton, Urban Splash development director, said: “We’re delighted to have secured planning approval, which clears the way for a vibrant new commercial hub in Swansea.
“Our vision is to create a space that serves both the community and the local economy, offering high-quality amenities, dynamic workspaces, and a place where people can connect and collaborate.
“This building is set to create new job opportunities and inject fresh energy into the city centre, supporting Swansea’s growth as a forward-thinking, thriving urban environment.”
Construction work on the public sector hub is anticipated to start in 2025.
