Further site investigations have begun at the former St David’s Shopping Centre site in Swansea, marking a major milestone in plans for a new city centre office development that will bring hundreds of workers – and a significant boost in footfall and spending – back into the heart of the city.
The preparatory works, being carried out by Andrew Scott Ltd on behalf of Swansea Council, mark a significant step forward in the transformation of the prominent city centre site – which will be known as Porth Copr.
Main construction of the new office scheme is anticipated to begin in late spring.
When complete, the new office building will accommodate hundreds of workers from both the public and private sectors.
The influx of daily workers is expected to generate significant additional footfall in the city centre – supporting existing traders, boosting spending in local shops, cafés and restaurants, and helping to attract further retail and business investment in the years ahead.
The scheme will be developed by Swansea Council in partnership with regeneration specialists Urban Splash, with the council retaining ownership of the building.
The office development will form part of the first phase of the wider regeneration of the site, with Urban Splash continuing to progress plans for the remainder of the area. The broader vision for the site includes a high-quality, mixed-use development with significant greenery and landscaped public spaces, creating an attractive environment for businesses, residents and visitors .
Cllr Rob Stewart, Swansea Council Leader, said: “This is another major step forward in our long-term plan to regenerate Swansea city centre and create the conditions for more jobs, more investment and more opportunities for local businesses.
“Developments like this are about far more than bricks and mortar. By bringing hundreds of workers into the city centre every day, we’re increasing footfall and spending power for our existing traders. That in turn helps create the confidence and demand needed to attract new shops, cafés and other businesses.
“We all know the challenges facing high streets, including the growth of online shopping. The reality is that shops and other businesses will only choose to open in Swansea if the city centre footfall figures show it’s worth their investment.
“Schemes like this directly strengthen that case and help ensure our city centre has a strong and sustainable future.”
The new office scheme will follow a series of recent city centre developments that are already delivering increased activity and footfall, including 71/72 Kingsway and the Y Storfa community services hub. Both projects have brought new workers and visitors into the heart of Swansea, supporting local businesses and adding to the city centre’s growing momentum.
