#blaen-y-maes — Public Fediverse posts

SWANSEA: The Kicks kid who couldn’t keep his temper on the pitch played for Wales in Mexico

Harri Stevens used to lose his temper on a football pitch. At 12, in a clip Swansea City AFC Foundation has just put out, he says it himself: “Before I started going Kicks, I was like naughty when I was out. But since I’ve gone there, like, I’ve just been behaving.”

This spring, at 16, he walked out in a Wales shirt at the Street Child World Cup in Mexico City. The Foundation has now told his story in full.

The Tuesday-night football that turned into something else

Harri started at the Foundation’s free Premier League Kicks sessions, the drop-in football the club’s charity runs for young people in parts of the city where organised sport is thin on the ground. The Foundation says managing his behaviour and emotions had been difficult before that, and that anger in particular got the better of him, on the pitch as much as off it.

What he found, it says, was somewhere to play with his mates, adults he trusted and, over time, a different way of handling himself. The relationships with youth engagement manager Craig Richards and the coaches were the thing that stuck.

Harri’s own view now is blunt. “If I weren’t going there, I think I’d be causing trouble all the time,” he says. “I’ve grown up more. I’ve behaved more.”

Local Legend at 12

Two years in, in 2022, the Foundation named him its Premier League Kicks Local Legend, an award for attitude, love of the game and how far a young person has come away from football as much as on it. He is photographed holding the certificate in a green bib, all of 12.

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Then Mexico

In May ten young people from the Foundation’s Kicks sites in Llanelli and Blaenymaes flew to Mexico City as the first team to represent Wales at the Street Child World Cup, and came fifth. They had spent 18 months volunteering and fundraising to pay for it. Harri was one of them.

He went with one of his closest friends, who says on the video that the pick made him proud: “That’s a really good achievement for him.” Harri’s own review of Mexico City is a 16-year-old’s: “It was a good laugh with all the boys. We done good in the tournament as well. The Brazil team loved us.”

Craig Richards, the Foundation’s youth engagement manager, says the change was visible on arrival: “First day, he’s happy. He felt free. You could see it in him. Tried new stuff.” He adds that Harri was picked “just for his incredible journey” with the Foundation.

The tournament, run by Street Child United, mixes football with art workshops and a young people’s congress on rights and stigma; players spend as much time speaking as playing. For Harri, the Foundation says, being picked to represent his country gave him something to hold onto, and a reason to keep the progress going.

“We feel the Premier League Kicks sessions that he attended on a weekly basis have helped him to overcome his behaviour and anger issues,” Mr Richards says. “Opportunities like the Premier League Kicks Cup and Mexico has kept Harri out of trouble.”

What the Foundation says it proves

The Foundation’s point in telling the story is that none of it happened fast. Four years of turning up, the same coaches, and a trip that only existed because the players raised the money themselves.

“Kicks gave Harri somewhere to start,” it says. “The people around him helped him keep moving forward; and Mexico showed just how far that journey could take him.”

Premier League Kicks is funded by the Premier League and run through club charities across England and Wales. Swansea City’s Foundation runs sessions across the city and in Llanelli, free to attend, for anyone aged eight to 18.

Related stories from Swansea Bay News

SWANSEA: Ten kids from Llanelli and Blaenymaes flew to Mexico City to represent Wales, and came fifth in the world
The squad, the 18 months of fundraising, and the result.

Premier League Kicks
Our coverage of the free sessions in Swansea and Llanelli.

Swansea City AFC Foundation
The club charity’s community work across south west Wales.

SWANSEA: Ten kids from Llanelli and Blaenymaes flew to Mexico City to represent Wales — and came fifth in the world

Ten young people from Swansea flew to Mexico City last week and came home with a fifth-place finish at the Street Child World Cup — Wales’s first ever appearance at the tournament, and one that took 18 months of fundraising by the players themselves to make happen.

The boys team was drawn entirely from Swansea City AFC Foundation’s Premier League Kicks sessions in Llanelli and Blaenymaes — two of the programme’s community sites in south-west Wales that offer free football and personal development sessions to young people who might not otherwise have access to them.

The Street Child World Cup, organised by Street Child United, is not a conventional football tournament. It uses sport, art and advocacy to challenge the stigma faced by street-connected children and campaign for their rights — shining a spotlight on young people living in street situations and the fundamental rights they often lack. Alongside the football, participants took part in arts workshops and congress sessions focused on human rights, diversity and cultural understanding.

Wales entered two teams — the boys’ side from Swansea, and a girls’ team based in Blaenau Gwent. The boys finished fifth overall in their first appearance on the global stage.

What makes the achievement particularly striking is how the players got there. The young people selected from the Premier League Kicks sessions spent 18 months volunteering and fundraising to cover the costs of the trip themselves — a commitment that required sustained effort long before any of them set foot on a pitch in Mexico.

Thomas Williams, Head of Programmes at Swansea City AFC Foundation, said the experience had been everything the programme hoped it would be. “We are thrilled to be a part of the Street Child World Cup, offering deserving young people a once-in-a-lifetime experience to represent Wales and play football against teams from across the globe,” he said.

“Young people from our Premier League Kicks sites in Llanelli and Blaenymaes were selected and over the last 18 months have been volunteering to raise funds to cover the costs of the trip,” Williams added.

“The young people selected from our Premier League Kicks sessions demonstrated tremendous commitment throughout the journey, spending 18 months fundraising to help make the trip possible. We could not be prouder of everything they achieved both on and off the pitch.”

The Premier League Kicks programme operates across Swansea City Foundation’s community sites, offering free sessions to young people in areas where access to sport and structured activities can be limited. For many of those who took part in the Mexico trip, it will have been their first time travelling internationally.

Wales’s debut appearance at the Street Child World Cup ended with a fifth-place finish — a result that, given it was the nation’s first ever entry in the tournament, represents a remarkable start for a programme built not on elite talent but on community, commitment and opportunity.

Related stories from Swansea Bay News

Swansea City Foundation news from Swansea Bay News
All our coverage of the Foundation’s community work across south-west Wales.

Premier League Kicks news from Swansea Bay News
Our coverage of the Premier League Kicks programme in Swansea and Llanelli.

BLAENYMAES: ‘He was the light of our lives’ — beloved chihuahua Hugo killed in garden attack on Eagles Place

A Swansea family is grieving the loss of their beloved eight-year-old chihuahua after he was fatally attacked by another dog in the garden of their own home – in an incident that has left neighbours shaken and sparked calls for tougher action on dangerous dogs.

Hugo, who had been due to serve as ring bearer at his owners’ wedding, was killed on Thursday 23 April at the family’s address on Eagles Place in Blaenymaes. Hugo’s dad had returned home from work and let him outside into their private garden as normal, when he discovered a large bulldog-type dog already on the property. The attack happened within minutes.

Hugo’s mam said the family was struggling to come to terms with what happened. “He was a bundle of joy. Not your average chihuahua. He was the light of our lives,” she said. “He absolutely loved adventures – hiking a lot of the Brecon Beacons and mid and south Wales, joining us on bike rides, beach days, you name it. He will be sorely missed by his two St Bernard best friends Herbie and Missy.”

She paid tribute to the neighbours and her father who helped her partner in the immediate aftermath. “My partner is shaking and traumatised from witnessing it all,” she said. “I want to include my sincere thank you to my neighbours and father that day who helped my distraught partner, kept others safe on the street and communicated with the police further. I cannot thank them enough for their support.”

Hugo had become a much-loved figure in the local community, joining his owners at the annual Christmas Parade each year and going everywhere with his mam. The couple had been making plans to take him travelling across Europe, and he was set to play a starring role at their wedding as ring bearer – which had been planned around him and their other family dogs.

South Wales Police confirmed they attended the scene and later executed a warrant, seizing the offending dog under the Dangerous Dogs Act. An investigation is now underway to establish any criminal liability. A police spokesperson said: “Our thoughts are with the family of the victim dog following this traumatic experience for them.”

Hugo’s mam said the person who came to collect the attacking dog did not claim ownership, saying it belonged to a family member who was unaware it had been out roaming. “The dog was loose and my poor partner had to search for the owner,” she said.

She said she had been raising concerns about the address the dog came from with both the police and the council, but felt action had been too slow. “The address the dog came from has heavy activity which I’ve reported to the police and council,” she said. “I have been emailing our housing officer and received unsatisfactory replies, some limited to ‘thank you for the email’ regarding serious matters. I find this disgusting.”

She confirmed she intended to take the matter further once she had recovered from the immediate trauma. “I am going to be following it up with MPs to call for tighter restrictions and harsher punishments for those unable to control their dogs,” she said. “The council need to have swifter action. He should have been able to be safe and free within his own private property.”

Multiple neighbours had to come outside to help her partner bring the situation under control on the day of the attack. The owner raised concerns that the attacking dog had entered neighbouring properties before reaching their garden, and said the incident had heightened fears in the community. “There are children, infants and other pets on the street,” she said. “I am deeply concerned about the safety of other pets and children in the area if dogs are able to roam and access private properties in this way.”

South Wales Police are continuing their investigation. Anyone with information about the incident is asked to contact South Wales Police by calling 101.

Related stories from Swansea Bay News

Police investigate increased Penlan and Blaen-y-Maes antisocial behaviour
Our previous coverage of community safety concerns in the Blaenymaes area.

DRUG DEALING: Ammanford pair used ‘Chinese’ as codeword for cocaine orders — jailed after being caught waiting for a delivery in Swansea

Two men from Ammanford have been jailed after being caught supplying cocaine on the streets of Swansea — with an examination of their phones revealing drug users were ordering their fix by asking for a “Chinese.”

Jac Cadman, 23, of Florence Road, Ammanford, and Jamie Cook, 31, of Tabernacle Road, Glanaman, were spotted by officers on patrol in the Blaenymaes area of Swansea on March 13 this year, sitting in a parked Renault on Pentregethin Road. The officers noted the pair appeared “overly nervous and fidgety” and that the vehicle was registered and insured to a provisional licence holder.

A search under the Misuse of Drugs Act uncovered 28g of cocaine and £470 in cash in Cadman’s pockets, and 5g of cocaine and £880 in cash on Cook. Three mobile phones were also seized.

Subsequent searches of the defendants’ home addresses revealed further cash — £1,620 and an additional $1,330 in US currency were found at Cadman’s property.

Swansea Crown Court heard that messages on Cadman’s phone showed “clear evidence of involvement in the supply of cocaine,” and that he had been waiting in Pentregethin Road to collect a delivery for onward supply at the time of his arrest.

Cook’s phone told a more colourful story. Caitlin Brazel, prosecuting, told the court that a large number of messages from known drug users referred to buying “Chinese” — which she said appeared to be a codeword for cocaine. The prosecution said police concluded Cook’s phone was being used as the drugs line.

Investigators were also able to link messages from a phone seized in a separate drugs investigation in 2025 to Cook, suggesting he had been involved in supplying cocaine since at least 2024. Cook had previously been convicted in 2022 of possession with intent to supply and being concerned in the supply of cocaine after being caught operating as a street dealer in the Penlan area of Swansea by a plain-clothed police officer.

Both men answered “no comment” to all questions in interview, save for Cadman telling officers he worked in tarmacking.

The court heard that Cadman, who has no previous convictions, had begun drinking and taking drugs as a teenager as an escape from the pressures of being a carer for his parents. His barrister said he had found himself in debt and turned to dealing as a result, and that he was “deeply ashamed” of the impact on his family — including an unborn child.

Cook’s barrister told the court his client had experienced adverse childhood experiences linked to his mother’s addiction issues, and that the breakdown of a relationship following his 2022 imprisonment had seen him turn back to drugs. While on remand, the court heard, Cook had reflected on his situation and hoped to undertake the 12 Steps addiction programme upon release.

Recorder Greg Bull KC, sentencing, said those who involve themselves in Class A drug supply are “dealing in human misery” and that the courts would always treat such offending seriously.

With one-third discounts for their guilty pleas, Cadman was sentenced to 28 months in prison and Cook to 40 months. Both will serve no more than half their sentences in custody before being released on licence.

Sergeant Luke Tucker, of South Wales Police, said: “Both Jac Cadman and Jamie Cook will have felt great when they thought that their Class A drug dealing was going to net them a quick windfall. However, unfortunately for them, that feeling was quickly shattered when officers caught them in the act.

“Both will now follow in the footsteps of other drug dealers who have plagued the streets of Swansea as they rightfully head to prison.”

Related stories from Swansea Bay News

Drug gang busted: Swansea man jailed as cocaine network smashed in multi-area operation
More of our coverage of Class A drug supply sentences from Swansea Crown Court.

Five jailed after street brawl saw family arm themselves with nail-studded plank in revenge attack
Another recent sentencing story from Swansea Crown Court.

SWANSEA: 186 homes planned for Penplas – including derelict supermarket site

Plans have been unveiled to build 186 new homes on land in Penplas that has stood derelict for nearly three decades.

The proposals focus on three sites off Milford Way — including the former Leo’s superstore, which has remained vacant since it was demolished in the mid-1990s.

Developers say the scheme could finally bring the long-neglected land back into use, delivering new housing for local families and first-time buyers.

The plans have been submitted to Swansea Council for pre-application consideration by housing association Codi (previously known as Pobl), working in partnership with building firm Morganstone and the local authority.

If approved, the development would form a key part of wider efforts to regenerate the Penderi area, which covers Blaenymaes, Portmead, Penplas and Cadle.

The move comes amid growing demand for housing in Swansea, particularly in established communities where younger generations are struggling to stay close to family.

Local resident Dylan Jones said the plans could help keep communities together.

He said: “New houses are very much needed in this area. People who grow up here naturally want to live near to their parents and friends when they start their own families.”

He added: “We are a proud community, who always look out for each other, and these proposals look like they will also enable those who may want to downsize from family homes as they get older.”

The new homes are expected to be modern and energy efficient, with developers promising lower energy bills and environmentally friendly design.

Plans also include improved green spaces and better links between different parts of the neighbourhood, reflecting feedback from local residents.

The development builds on wider regeneration work already underway in Penderi, including the launch of a major masterplan aimed at transforming the area, as previously reported when a long-term vision for the community was unveiled.

It also follows significant investment in existing homes, including a groundbreaking energy retrofit scheme that has seen hundreds of properties fitted with solar panels to cut costs and carbon emissions — part of what we reported as the UK’s largest project of its kind.

Codi says the latest proposals are another step in a long-term commitment to the area, where it has been a landlord for more than 30 years.

Development director Claire Tristham said the plans are about more than just housing.

She said: “These proposals add another step in delivering high-quality, energy-efficient homes providing comfortable, affordable homes.”

She added: “Regeneration here isn’t short term — it’s a long-term commitment to people, place and opportunity.”

The scheme is still at an early stage, with further consultation expected before any formal planning application is submitted.

But for many in Penplas, the prospect of finally seeing the long-empty supermarket site brought back to life could mark a turning point for the area.

Related stories from Swansea Bay News

Masterplan launched to transform a Swansea community
The wider vision behind regeneration plans in Penderi.

Contract awarded for largest UK energy retrofit of its kind in Penderi
Major investment has already upgraded hundreds of existing homes in the area.

UK’s largest energy retrofit scheme reaches milestone in Swansea community
Ongoing work to cut energy bills and emissions for local residents.

SWANSEA: Local football gets £750,000 boost for new facilities

This significant funding is poised to make playing football more attractive and accessible to a wider range of people, from existing players to new participants, according to Swansea Council.

The improvements are a joint effort, driven by Swansea Council in partnership with the Cymru Football Foundation (CFF).

The CFF, the charitable arm of the Football Association of Wales (FAW), is the sport’s national governing body.

Community clubs across Swansea are expected to benefit directly from these new, modern facilities, the council has indicated.

Cllr Andrew Stevens, Cabinet Member for Environment and Infrastructure, has warmly welcomed the substantial funding.

He believes the investment will significantly boost football’s popularity across Swansea.

Cllr Stevens highlighted the anticipated positive impact on grassroots sport.

“The improvement work on playing field changing rooms at Trallwn Fields, Cwm Level and Ynystawe Park will encourage more people to get involved with grassroots sport,” he stated.

He further emphasised the goal of attracting a diverse group of users.

“Once built, the facilities will be attractive to existing players and many others – including women and girls, amongst whom we’re already seeing huge participation growth across the city – who perhaps don’t play right now,” Cllr Stevens added.

This investment in new facilities is part of a larger, planned £1 million council commitment to upgrading football infrastructure city-wide.

Aled Lewis, director at the CFF, has underscored the foundation’s dedication to inspiring communities through improved facilities.

“These much-needed investments across Swansea will be essential for the growth of the game,” Mr Lewis commented.

He praised the collaborative effort with Swansea Council, noting its importance.

“Through collaboration with Swansea Council, we’re ensuring grassroots players have safe, community-led environments for everyone to enjoy. We’re looking forward to seeing the positive impact they’re going to have once they’ve been completed,” he said.

The council’s new local football strategy, developed with the CFF and FAW, aims to enhance opportunities to play the sport in the coming years.

Key improvements are set to include high-quality, inclusive changing facilities, upgraded to modern standards, as outlined by the council.

These upgrades are specifically designed to ensure the facilities are attractive and accessible to a more diverse group of users.

The sports fields at Trallwn, Cwm Level and Ynystawe are already well-utilised by several clubs and the Swansea Senior and Junior Football Leagues.

Designs for the upgrades will now be created, following council plans.

The work will be subject to planning approval, which includes necessary studies like ecological surveys.

Local clubs have been actively involved in shaping the designs, a process the council has reported.

Once finalised and approved by funders and planners, the designs will be shared with all stakeholders.

Crucially, this grant will also free up council funds, Swansea Council has confirmed.

These freed-up funds can then be used to improve other football facilities around Swansea, including Cadle Mill, at Blaen-Y-Maes, and Bonymaen Park, according to the council.

Swansea’s blue bag plastics trial extended – 70 tonnes collected so far

Around 20,000 households across the city have been stuffing crisp packets, bread bags and biscuit wrappers into special blue bags for kerbside pick‑up. The trial, launched in spring, was designed to see if residents would embrace recycling the trickiest plastics that usually end up in black bags.

They did. Within weeks, Swansea Bay News reported more than five tonnes had already been collected. Now the total has soared past 70 tonnes, with the material recycled into new products like bags for life and bin liners.

“A great success story”

Cabinet Member Cyril Anderson said:

“The trial so far has been a really great success story. Residents have got on board with it and have quickly seen the value in using the recycling service and reducing the amount of household waste they put in the black bag. Our plan is to continue the trial into the new year and give residents in the trial areas the opportunity to use the blue bags until June.”

Where it runs

The scheme covers a mix of areas across Swansea – from Blaenymaes, Fforestfach and Penlan to Clydach, Hafod and Townhill – chosen to test how different housing types use the service. Residents outside the trial can still recycle soft plastics at supermarket collection points.

What goes in the bag

Accepted items include crisp packets, bread bags, cereal liners, pet food bags, magazine wrapping and multipack rings. Residents are asked to rinse items and tie bags securely with a double knot.

Items such as cling film, polystyrene, cleaning product pouches and blister packs are not accepted and should go in black bags.

What’s next

The Welsh Government is collating data from Swansea’s trial to help decide how similar schemes could be rolled out across other towns and cities. For now, Swansea households in the pilot areas can keep filling their blue bags until 30 June 2026.

Related stories from Swansea Bay News

Council to trial soft plastic kerbside recycling scheme in Swansea
Swansea Council launched the pilot scheme in April, inviting 20,000 households to recycle soft plastics at the kerbside.

Swansea residents embrace new soft plastics recycling trial with over five tonnes already collected
Early figures showed strong uptake, with residents quickly filling blue bags and more than five tonnes collected within weeks.

Plans revealed to change kerbside recycling in Swansea
Wider proposals to reshape recycling collections across the city, including how soft plastics could fit into future services.

Blaenymaes & Portmead super‑school merger takes step forward

The project, backed by Welsh Government, promises modern classrooms, outdoor play areas, a part‑time nursery, Flying Start provision and specialist support facilities.

The move hasn’t been without controversy. Parents raised concerns when the school plan was first unveiled, sparking a row over whether the two schools should be forced together. A formal consultation followed, with the majority backing the merger.

Councillors have now confirmed the schools will amalgamate in 2030, creating one governing body and one headteacher. Pupils are expected to move into the new build in 2031, with the new school proposed close to Blaenymaes Primary.

Council Leader Rob Stewart said:

“We are absolutely committed to this huge investment that will transform education for generations of children. Together with Welsh Government we’re investing more than £400m in new and improved facilities across Swansea — the largest ever investment in school infrastructure here.”

Cabinet Member for Education Robert Smith added:

“Better school buildings are needed to meet the needs of pupils at Blaenymaes and Portmead. A brand new school will bring them the benefits already enjoyed by other communities where we’ve built new schools.”

For families, the decision means the countdown is on. In five years’ time, Blaenymaes and Portmead will no longer exist as separate schools — and by 2031, hundreds of children are set to swap ageing classrooms for a modern “super‑school” designed to change the face of education in the north of the city.

Related stories: Blaenymaes & Portmead school plans

Row over Blaenymaes & Portmead school plan
Parents voiced concerns as proposals for a new super‑school first emerged.

Consultation backs merger
Formal consultation showed support for amalgamating the two schools ahead of a new build.

New school proposal unveiled
Council outlined plans for a modern site near Blaenymaes Primary to serve both communities.

#BlaenYMaes #BlaenYMaesPrimarySchool #CllrRobStewart #CllrRobertSmith #education #Portmead #PortmeadPrimarySchool #schoolMerger #Swansea #SwanseaCouncil

Swansea woman and ex‑husband jailed after cocaine bust

Dramatic footage released by South Wales Police shows the moment Lisa Regan, 53, from Portmead, Swansea, was arrested as she stepped off a plane — bringing down a drugs empire she ran with her ex‑husband.

Regan and Phillip Jones, 44, from Brynhyfryd, Swansea, oversaw a cocaine supply chain that flooded Swansea and Ammanford. Investigators found images on their phones showing Jones cutting up a kilo of cocaine, while the pair laundered their profits through a café in Blaenymaes.

At Swansea Magistrates Court in October, Jones admitted being concerned in the supply of cocaine, two counts of possession with intent to supply, concealing criminal property and driving while disqualified. He was sentenced to six years and eight months in prison. Regan admitted similar offences and was handed seven years and four months.

Police also uncovered a Carmarthenshire link. Tracy Lewis, 54, from Llandybie, was buying large amounts of cocaine from Regan and running his own operation in Ammanford.

He admitted multiple offences including supply of cocaine, crack cocaine and cannabis, possession with intent to supply, and possession of criminal property. He was jailed for six years.

Sergeant Luke Tucker said:

“Between them, Lisa Regan, Phillip Jones and Tracy Lewis were responsible for flooding our local communities with significant quantities of Class A and B drugs.

“They thought they were above the law – but they will have been devastated to discover their operations weren’t as impenetrable as they thought. Their removal from society has made our streets far safer and better off.”

#Ammanford #BlaenYMaes #Brynhyfryd #cocaine #drugDealer #DrugDealing #drugs #Llandybie #Portmead #SouthWalesPolice #Swansea

Blaenymaes PCSO honoured at South Wales Police annual awards

PCSO Stephen Evans received the Community Award, sponsored by the Police and Crime Commissioner, for his work building trust in one of Swansea’s most deprived neighbourhoods.

Championing youth outreach

PCSO Evans was instrumental in bringing the Premier League Kicks programme to Blaenymaes — a youth outreach initiative run by Swansea City AFC Foundation that uses football to engage young people and reduce offending.

Every Thursday evening, dozens of children take part in free football sessions at the local multi‑use games area, watched by parents who might once have been wary of police. The project has become a safe space for families to come together, with Evans often on the touchline talking to residents and encouraging youngsters.

According to South Wales Police, Evans has also worked closely with local schools to break down barriers. Teachers report that children now draw pictures of him when asked what they want to be when they grow up — a sign of the trust he has built.

A familiar face in Blaenymaes

Known for his hands‑on approach, Evans is said to know “everyone’s name” in the community and has even altered his shifts to support residents when needed. His award citation praised him as “a real advocate for young people” who ensures their voices are heard.

South Wales Police and Crime Commissioner Alun Michael said the awards highlighted “the extraordinary commitment of officers and staff who go above and beyond to serve their communities.”

Police & crime news

Stay up to date
The latest police appeals, court reports, and crime updates from across Swansea Bay and South Wales.

View all Police & Crime stories

#BlaenYMaes #community #CommunityAward #Kicks #PCSO #Penderi #PremierLeagueKicks #SouthWalesPolice #SwanseaCityFC

Blaenymaes man charged after drugs and cash seized in police raid

South Wales Police said officers from the Penlan Neighbourhood Policing Team, supported by the Special Constabulary and the Territorial Support Team, executed a search warrant at an address in Woodford Road, Blaenymaes, on Friday 3 October.

During the operation, officers recovered significant amounts of Class A controlled drugs and cash. Several off‑road motorcycles were also seized as part of the investigation.

Andrew Clarke, 35, from Blaenymaes, has been charged with possession with intent to supply cocaine and possession of criminal property. He has been remanded into custody.

Three other individuals who were arrested at the scene remain under investigation.

Police have released an image showing a number of off‑road bikes propped against a garden wall and driveway gate at the property.

Related stories from Swansea Bay News

Swansea cannabis dealer jailed for harassing ex and witness intimidation
A dealer who harassed his former partner and intimidated a witness has been jailed after police uncovered his cannabis operation.

Mayhill man jailed for Class A drug supply
Ricky O’Connor, 33, was sentenced to 30 months after police seized cocaine, cash and weapons during a raid at his home.

Birmingham men jailed after dealing Class A drugs in Swansea
Ayaz Hussain and Asam Bashir were jailed for more than seven years each after being caught supplying heroin and crack cocaine in Swansea.

Swansea man linked to transatlantic yacht cocaine plot as crime group jailed
A Swansea man was among those sentenced after a crime group was caught smuggling cocaine across the Atlantic by yacht.

#arrests #BlaenYMaes #Blaenymaes #cocaine #custody #drugsRaid #offRoadBikes #Penlan #SouthWalesPolice #Swansea #WoodfordRoad

7,000 homes promised, just 300 built: Swansea’s housing blueprint falters

What this feature covers

• The 7,000 homes promised in Swansea’s Local Development Plan – and why fewer than 300 have been built
• A site‑by‑site look at the Strategic Development Areas: from Penllergaer to St Thomas
• The obstacles – from Covid and costs to nutrient neutrality rules
• The impact on families, communities and local services
• How the next Local Development Plan (LDP2) could reshape Swansea’s growth to 2038

When Swansea councillors adopted the Local Development Plan (LDP) in 2019, it was meant to be a clear guide for growth. Instead of scattered estates, the council wanted builders to focus on a dozen large “Strategic Development Areas” (SDAs) — planned new neighbourhoods with schools, shops, roads and green space. The promise was bold: more than 7,000 homes within five years. Six years later, the council’s own Annual Monitoring Report shows fewer than 300 have been built.

At the latest planning committee, Cllr Peter Black voiced frustration:

“It does seem as if the plan is aiming to be a planned economy without actually any control over the economy. We’re saying how many houses we want built without having any control over that.”

Responding, Tom Evans, the council’s Placemaking and Strategic Planning Manager, acknowledged the difficulties, stressing that Swansea is not alone:

“Deliverability of residential sites has been one of the biggest difficulties we’ve experienced — and it’s not limited to Swansea, it’s a national issue.”

The Strategic Development Sites

Parc Mawr, Penllergaer (planned: 644 homes | delivered: 119)

Bellway Homes is building here, and aerial photos show rows of new houses already occupied. But Parc Mawr has been one of the most controversial sites. A vocal campaign group, Preserve Penllergaer, fought the allocation from the start, warning that the promised primary school and relief road might never materialise. Penllergaer Community Council has echoed those concerns, arguing the development risks overwhelming local services. The late Cllr Wendy Fitzgerald was a prominent critic, warning in 2020 that the scheme would “change the character of the village forever.”

Garden Village, Gorseinon (planned: 700 homes | delivered: 24)

Garden Village has history: it was first conceived as a model community in the early 20th century, but World War I halted progress. A century later, Persimmon was tasked with reviving the idea. Yet only 24 homes have been built so far. The site has been dogged by concerns over ancient woodland, which led to a public inquiry, and by scepticism that the “garden village” branding masks a conventional estate. For now, the grand vision remains largely on paper.

Pontarddulais (planned in the LDP: 486 homes | delivered: 0)

On paper, Pontarddulais was supposed to take around 486 homes under the Local Development Plan. In reality, the schemes now on the table go well beyond that figure — and the town has become one of the fiercest battlegrounds in Swansea’s housing debate.

Persimmon’s zero‑carbon neighbourhood

The biggest proposal is from Persimmon Homes, which has branded its 280‑acre scheme south of Glanffrwd Road as a “zero‑carbon ready” neighbourhood. The plans, lodged in 2024, set out 516 homes powered by air‑source heat pumps and solar panels, with no gas connections at all. Persimmon promise a new primary school, a community hall, parks, play areas and sports pitches, alongside contributions for a 3G pitch at Pontarddulais Comprehensive and upgrades to local bus services.

Supporters say it would bring jobs and give young families a chance to stay in the town. But opponents point to the same pinch‑points that have dogged every major application here: traffic through St Teilo Street, the Station Road/Water Street junction, and the pressure on schools and GPs. Councillors resolved to approve the scheme in March 2025 “despite traffic and infrastructure concerns,” but as of this autumn, the fields remain untouched.

Walters’ aluminium site and the spine road row

A second scheme is also moving forward on the former aluminium factory site off Station Road, promoted by Walters Land Ltd. Outline consent has been granted for up to 150 homes, part of a wider tract of land that could eventually deliver as many as 720. The plan has been mired in rows over the so‑called “spine street” — a relief road meant to take traffic away from Water Street. The original LDP envisaged a western route parallel to the railway, but flood risk has forced Walters to propose a new alignment via High Street and Woodville Street. Residents fear it will funnel HGVs and commuter traffic through residential streets.

Even councillors have voiced unease. Cllr Phil Downing warned at committee: “It’s either going to be a functional road, or it’s not – in which case what are we doing?” Despite those misgivings, the outline plans were approved, with just 10% affordable housing promised because of abnormal remediation costs. Walters intend to clean up the site and then sell it on to a housebuilder for detailed consent.

For now, Pontarddulais remains in limbo: two major schemes approved in principle, more homes than the LDP ever envisaged, but not a single brick laid. To campaigners, it’s proof the town is being asked to take too much. To developers, it’s a chance to deliver “sustainable, future‑proof” neighbourhoods. To residents, it’s years of uncertainty with no clear end in sight.

Both major schemes also fall within the nutrient neutrality catchment, meaning even with outline approvals, progress could be delayed until developers can prove their plans will not add to pollution in the Burry Inlet.

Morriston, Clasemont Road (planned: 490–600 homes | delivered: 0)

The land north of Clasemont Road, known as Pantlasau Farm, was one of the flagship allocations in the Local Development Plan. A detailed “Design Code” was drawn up in 2017 by consultants Mitchell Eley Gould on behalf of the Morris Estate Trustees, setting out a vision for up to 600 homes.

The plans imagined a high‑density, walkable neighbourhood inspired by the original 18th‑century Morriston grid. Key features included:

• A new primary school and playing fields.
• A local centre with shops, community space and a small commercial hub.
• A network of green corridors and a nature reserve to buffer the site from the M4.
• A mix of houses and flats, with higher densities around the centre and lower densities at the edges.
• Play areas and sports facilities (one multi‑use games area, three larger play areas and nine smaller ones).
• A street layout designed as “shared spaces” to slow traffic and prioritise walking and cycling.

The 26‑hectare site was to be built in phases over a decade, starting with around 100 homes and a small commercial space, before expanding to include the school and community hub.

A masterplan on paper

Yet despite the detailed framework, no homes have been built. The allocation remains on paper, a reminder that even with masterplans and design codes, delivery depends on developer appetite, infrastructure funding and market conditions.

Llangyfelach, M4 Junction 46 (planned: 565 homes in the LDP | live proposals: up to 1,950 | delivered: 0)

From 565 to 1,950 homes

At the northern edge of Swansea, just off Junction 46 of the M4, lies one of the most ambitious housing sites in the Local Development Plan. Known as Pentref Rhostir, the 280‑acre tract of farmland was originally allocated for 565 homes. Since then, developer Llanmoor Homes has secured outline consent for a far larger scheme: a new community of up to 1,950 homes to be built over 15–20 years, with around 15% affordable.

The masterplan promises more than just housing. It includes:

• A new primary school.
• A local centre with shops, food outlets, medical and community facilities.
• A 1.4km link road designed to ease congestion on Llangyfelach Road.
• Around 100 acres of public open space, with sports pitches, play areas and landscaped green corridors.
• Contributions to active travel routes, ecology improvements, and an on‑site demand‑responsive bus service.

Outline consent, no spades in the ground

The first phase was expected to deliver 472 homes, with Llanmoor previously aiming to start infrastructure works in spring 2025 and open a sales centre by autumn. But as of autumn 2025, the fields remain untouched. Despite outline consent and glossy brochures, not a single home has yet been built.

For supporters, Pentref Rhostir is a chance to deliver the scale of housing Swansea desperately needs, in a location with space to grow. For critics, it is a symbol of the gap between the city’s housing promises and the reality on the ground — a flagship allocation still waiting to break ground.

Despite outline consent, the site lies within the affected catchment, so condition discharge and detailed applications may now face additional scrutiny under the new nutrient rules.

Penderi Regeneration

Penderi — the collective name for the communities of Blaenymaes, Portmead, Penplas and Cadle — is not a strategic LDP housing allocation but a neighbourhood regeneration programme. The area is dominated by social housing, with thousands of homes owned by Pobl and Swansea Council, and has long faced challenges of poor connectivity, deprivation and ageing housing stock.

Since the LDP was adopted, the most significant investment here has been in retrofitting existing homes rather than large‑scale new construction. The flagship Penderi Energy Project, led by Pobl in partnership with Sero, is one of the UK’s largest residential retrofit schemes. It is upgrading 644 social homes with solar panels, battery storage and other energy‑efficient technologies, aiming to cut bills and carbon emissions.

There has also been some new council housing: Swansea Council has completed 36 homes off Colliers Way in Blaenymaes — 18 built to ultra‑efficient Passive House standards and 18 to the council’s own “Swansea Standard,” which performs 25% better than building regulations.

The 2022 regeneration prospectus, prepared with The Urbanists, sets out a 15‑year vision for a 92‑hectare area. It proposes:

• Transforming The Ravine and other green corridors, with 27ha of landscape improvements overall.
• Upgrading 14ha of sports fields at Penlan Fields.
• Testing layouts for 384 new dwellings, potentially adding around 921 residents.
• Raising tree canopy cover from 7.5% to 50% within 15 years, through new street trees, fruit trees in gardens and extensive planting.

The ambition is to turn Penderi from a low‑density, service‑poor estate into a greener, healthier, better‑connected neighbourhood. Progress so far has been modest — a retrofit programme and a handful of new council homes — but the groundwork has been laid for a much larger transformation if the masterplan is realised.

Cefn Coed Hospital, Tycoch (planned: 371 homes | delivered: 73 pre‑LDP, 0 since)

The sprawling Cefn Coed Hospital site was originally earmarked for around 350–370 homes once services moved out. An early phase on the edge of the site, built by Bellway Homes off Lon Masarn, delivered 73 houses before the Local Development Plan was adopted.

But the wider redevelopment has stalled — and the scale of housing is now set to shrink. In 2023 Swansea Bay University Health Board confirmed that part of the land will be retained for a new adult acute mental health unit, with space for parking and possible future expansion. That means the number of homes likely to be built has fallen to around 170, almost half the original figure.

The health board has also acquired and plans to demolish an old Welsh Ambulance Service building on the site to make way for the new unit, subject to planning approval. Officials said the change reflects the need to modernise NHS facilities while managing a £100m+ maintenance backlog across the estate.

At the same time, the board has identified surplus land, including parts of Cefn Coed, as potential “candidate sites” for housing in Swansea Council’s next Local Development Plan (LDP2). That means some areas could still be released for development, but the final balance between health facilities and housing will only be confirmed in the new plan.

Waunarlwydd / Fforestfach (planned in the LDP: 716 homes | delivered: 0)

This corner of Swansea was earmarked in the Local Development Plan for major growth, with around 716 homes expected. In practice, the proposals now emerging are even bigger.

Persimmon’s ribbon of development

Persimmon’s outline for a 600‑home estate has already stirred fears of a “continuous ribbon” of development stretching from Penllergaer to Gowerton. Campaigners warn it would erode the green gaps between communities and overload the A484 corridor.

Barratt’s Keepers Lodge vision

And in late 2024, Barratt Homes began consulting on a second scheme at Keepers Lodge Farm, off Titanium Road. Their boards, shown at a pre‑application consultation in November 2024, set out a vision for around 400 homes, a new primary school, and a “community heart” with shops, commercial space and community facilities.

The boards also noted that the wider site is allocated in the LDP for mixed‑use development of approximately 1,319 homes — far more than the 716 figure usually quoted. Barratt’s “Keepers Lodge” would be the first phase of that larger allocation.

For now, though, the fields remain untouched. No formal planning application has yet been lodged, and residents are bracing for another round of arguments over traffic, schools and the loss of green space.

Gowerton, Fairwood Terrace (planned in the LDP: 664 homes | delivered: 0)

A strategic site with zero delivery

This site has become a symbol of the contradictions at the heart of Swansea’s Local Development Plan. On paper, the land at the end of Fairwood Terrace was earmarked for hundreds of homes. But when the first major application came forward — a joint bid by Persimmon Homes West Wales and Urban Style Land Ltd — councillors turned it down, despite their own officers recommending approval.

The outline application, lodged in 2024, sought permission for up to 216 homes alongside some mixed‑use commercial space. The plans promised a blend of flats and houses from one to four bedrooms, with just over 10% affordable housing, plus new pedestrian crossings, an upgraded signal‑controlled junction at Fairwood Terrace and Victoria Road, and even a potential park‑and‑ride hub to serve Gowerton railway station.

Residents were unconvinced. A Facebook campaign group, “Save Gowerton From Gridlock,” mobilised hundreds of objections, warning that the extra traffic would overwhelm the already congested Fairwood Terrace/Victoria Road junction, where a low railway bridge and rugby club access already create bottlenecks. Others raised concerns about the loss of mature trees and green space, and about pressure on local schools and GP surgeries.

In September 2024, the planning committee narrowly voted to refuse the scheme, citing congestion and amenity impacts. Officers warned the refusal reasons were weak and would be hard to defend at appeal, but councillors stood firm.

The twist came in 2025, when the case went to appeal before Planning and Environment Decisions Wales (PEDW). Gowerton ward councillors Susan Jones and Dai Jenkins, who had opposed the scheme, initially agreed to defend the refusal. But they later stepped back, saying they wanted to represent their constituents’ views more freely outside the formal constraints of the planning process. Into the breach stepped Cllr Peter Black, who has taken on the role of defending the council’s decision at the hearing, supported by planning officers.

The developers, meanwhile, are pressing hard. Persimmon and Urban Style Land argue the scheme fits the Local Development Plan and meets pressing housing needs. They have even lodged a claim for costs, insisting there is an “overwhelming case” for approval. Nearly 600 local submissions have been made to PEDW, underlining the depth of feeling in the community.

For campaigners, the refusal was a victory for common sense. For developers, it is a test case of whether Swansea can deliver the homes its own plan says are needed. For the council, it has become an awkward standoff: a strategic allocation with zero delivery, a developer determined to push ahead, and a community that feels it has already reached breaking point.

The Fairwood Terrace appeal has already been postponed while Planning and Environment Decisions Wales (PEDW) seeks further evidence on nutrient impacts — underlining how the new rules are already slowing decisions.

⚖️ Gowerton at Appeal

The Fairwood Terrace site (216 homes, part of the Gowerton allocation) was refused by Swansea’s planning committee in 2024 on traffic grounds, despite officers recommending approval.

Planning officers warned the refusal reasons were “not particularly strong” and may be hard to defend at appeal.

After ward members stepped back, Cllr Peter Black was nominated to defend the decision at a Planning and Environment Decisions Wales (PEDW) hearing.

Developers Persimmon Homes and Urban Style Land argue the scheme complies with the LDP and would provide “much‑needed housing.”

Nearly 600 local submissions have been made to PEDW, alongside petitions and objections citing congestion and safety concerns.

The appeal has since been postponed while inspectors seek further evidence on nutrient impacts, showing how the new nutrient neutrality rules are already affecting live cases.

Central Area / Waterfront (planned: 856 homes | delivered: 128 so far, with more underway)

The Central Area / Waterfront SDA covers Swansea city centre and the SA1 Waterfront. It was earmarked in the Local Development Plan for 856 homes, alongside new commercial and leisure space. Since adoption in 2019, only 128 homes have been completed, but several major schemes are now underway that could lift delivery closer to target.

City centre regeneration

City centre regeneration has been the most visible. The Copr Bay Arena and bridge opened in 2022 as Phase One of the Swansea Central project. Phase Two is now progressing, with the former St David’s Shopping Centre site earmarked for a new office and learning campus. The council’s flagship 71/72 The Kingsway office scheme is complete, providing space for around 600 jobs in the tech and digital sectors. Alongside this, upper floors of vacant commercial buildings on The Kingsway and High Street are being converted into apartments to bring more residents into the core.

The Civic Centre prize

The Civic Centre site on the seafront is the next big prize. Urban Splash unveiled a “sketchbook vision” in December 2024 to transform the 23‑acre site with 500–600 homes, ground‑floor cafes and bars, a hotel, and even a two‑storey aquarium. The scheme will only move forward once council services relocate to Y Storfa, a new public sector hub in the former BHS store on Oxford Street. Y Storfa is due to open in late 2025, housing the central library, West Glamorgan Archive Service, and a range of council and partner services.

SA1 Waterfront schemes

SA1 Waterfront remains a key housing location. Pobl’s Sidings development added new apartments soon after the LDP was adopted, and further schemes are now in train. Construction began in early 2025 on 43 affordable homes on Langdon Road, due for completion in 2027. In late 2024, Beacon Cymru (formerly Coastal Housing) started work on 104 social rent apartments with ground‑floor commercial space on Kings Road. In May 2025, the Welsh Government agreed to sell two further SA1 plots (D5B and D9B) to Pobl and Beacon Cymru for 69 more social homes.

The University of Wales Trinity Saint David is also expanding its footprint in SA1. Its Innovation Matrix — a facility to connect business and academia — launched in 2025, with further research and collaboration projects under discussion.

Taken together, these projects show the Central Area / Waterfront is finally beginning to deliver on its promise of a denser, more vibrant urban core. But while the commercial and cultural elements have advanced quickly, the housing element is still catching up. Council officers say the area remains a priority for affordable and mixed‑use growth, with brownfield redevelopment and conversions central to the strategy.

Fabian Way Corridor (planned: 525 homes | delivered: 60)

Marketed in the Local Development Plan as Swansea’s “Innovation Corridor,” Fabian Way was supposed to deliver hundreds of homes alongside jobs, research facilities and new commercial space. To date, just 60 homes have been built, leaving the residential element far short of the 525 promised.

Instead, most of the activity has been around infrastructure and employment. Swansea University’s Bay Campus is now firmly established, Amazon’s distribution centre dominates the eastern end, and SA1 continues to grow with new university and residential blocks. But the corridor’s housing allocations remain largely untouched.

Transport first, housing later

Two linked transport schemes are now at the heart of the strategy. The Baldwin’s Bridge replacement would see the existing bridge over Baldwin’s Crescent rebuilt or upgraded, while a new Langdon Road connection would create a spine road through SA1, parallel to Fabian Way. Together, they are designed to ease congestion, improve access to the city centre, and provide safer walking and cycling routes for students and commuters. Swansea Council has already approved land acquisition south of Fabian Way at the docks, and Welsh Government funding is in place for feasibility and design. The project is listed as a priority in the regional transport plan.

Crucially, this is a joint scheme between Swansea Council and Neath Port Talbot Council, because the county boundary runs directly through the middle of the development zone — just west of the Bay Campus. That split jurisdiction has long complicated delivery, but both councils are now working together to unlock the corridor’s potential.

Another missing piece is the long‑promised Southern Access Road to Coed Darcy. Planned for more than a decade, it was intended to link the 4,000‑home “urban village” on the former BP refinery site directly to Fabian Way, relieving pressure on Jersey Marine and providing a dedicated public transport corridor. Sometimes referred to as “Ffordd Amazon Stage 2,” the road was identified in the 2010 Fabian Way Transport Assessment as essential early infrastructure. Yet only a short stub was ever built, ending abruptly. The full link has been repeatedly delayed by the slow pace of Coed Darcy itself and the engineering challenge of crossing the protected Crymlyn Bog. Neath Port Talbot Council now acknowledges the scheme “has not been developed,” and its future depends on whether the re‑scaled Coed Darcy plans finally move forward.

Other works are also reshaping the area. Neath Port Talbot Council has begun major drainage improvements on Fabian Way to tackle persistent flooding, supported by the Welsh Government’s Resilient Roads Fund. Plans are advancing to expand the Fabian Way park‑and‑ride into a “green transport hub”, potentially with hydrogen production and large‑scale EV charging. And within SA1 itself, new planning applications for apartments on Langdon Road show that piecemeal residential growth is still happening.

For now, though, the vision of a thriving mixed‑use corridor remains incomplete. The infrastructure projects may unlock development sites and improve connectivity, but the housing allocations are still waiting to be realised — a decade after they were first promised.

Tawe Riverside / St Thomas (planned: 258 homes | delivered: 0)

On the east bank of the River Tawe, the St Thomas allocation was supposed to deliver 258 homes as part of a wider riverside regeneration. To date, not a single dwelling has been built. Instead, the area has become the focus of a broader transformation effort, backed by UK Government Levelling Up funding and a new masterplan led by Urban Splash.

Urban Splash and Lovell’s riverside vision

The St Thomas Riverside site, once home to a railway station and later left as a green corridor, is now the subject of detailed proposals by Urban Splash and Lovell. Their Stage 1 Project Plan sets out around 158 new homes, half of them affordable, alongside a riverside promenade, a new public square, and flexible commercial units. Stirling Prize‑winning architects AHMM are part of the design team, with plans for riverside townhouses, a six‑storey “marker” building, and a central garden street. The scheme promises to reconnect St Thomas with the river for the first time in 150 years, with potential for a new pedestrian and cycle bridge to the city centre.

Levelling Up heritage projects

At the same time, the Tawe Riverside Corridor Action Plan highlights the area’s role as a heritage destination. A £28m Levelling Up programme is funding restoration of the Hafod Morfa Copperworks, new pontoons on the river, and upgrades to Swansea Museum. Together, these projects aim to create jobs, attract visitors, and complete missing links in the riverside walkway and cycle network.

Council depot site in play

The council’s own landholdings are also in play. Swansea Council has confirmed plans to vacate its long‑standing Pipehouse Wharf depot, relocating operations to a new facility at the Enterprise Park. The riverside depot, currently used for waste and recycling vehicles, sits next to the St David’s student accommodation on Morfa Road. Officials say the site is expected to generate “significant interest” from potential purchasers once it is released, adding to the pool of land available for regeneration along the Tawe corridor. Coastal Housing previously explored a 150‑home scheme here, though those plans did not progress. With the depot now earmarked for disposal, the site is once again likely to attract developers as part of the city’s wider riverside transformation.

For residents, the promise is of a greener, better‑connected neighbourhood, with new homes, public spaces and heritage attractions. But as with so many of Swansea’s strategic sites, the vision remains on paper. Delivery will depend on overcoming viability challenges, securing infrastructure funding, and navigating new environmental rules such as nutrient neutrality.

📊 Strategic Sites at a Glance

Parc Mawr, Penllergaer
644 planned | 119 built

Garden Village, Gorseinon
700 planned | 24 built

Pontarddulais
486 planned | 0 built

Morriston, Clasemont Road
490–600 planned | 0 built

Cefn Coed Hospital, Tycoch
371 planned | 73 built (before the LDP, none since)

Waunarlwydd / Fforestfach
716 planned | 0 built

Gowerton, Fairwood Terrace
664 planned | 0 built

Llangyfelach, M4 J46
565 planned (LDP allocation) | 0 built

Central Area / Waterfront
856 planned | 128 built

Fabian Way Corridor
525 planned | 60 built

Tawe Riverside / St Thomas
258 planned | 0 built

Total promised: 6,575–6,685 | Total delivered: fewer than 300

Why Swansea’s big sites stalled

The council points to Covid shutdowns, labour shortages, rising material costs, and new rules on drainage and biodiversity. Developers say large, infrastructure‑heavy sites are harder to make viable quickly. Campaigners argue the allocations were unrealistic, too big, or in the wrong places. And Swansea is not alone: Cardiff, Newport, Bridgend and Neath Port Talbot have all reported housing shortfalls.

Evans told councillors the next plan will need to be more selective:

“All of those sites that are identified, whether for housing or employment, are being reviewed as part of the new plan. What we need to do is make sure we’re identifying the most sustainable and deliverable, most appropriate sites for the next 10 to 15 years.”

On top of these challenges, a new environmental constraint has emerged — one that could stall Swansea’s housing pipeline even further.

Environmental rules put housing targets at risk

New nutrient neutrality rules could delay major housing projects across Swansea for months, threatening the city’s ability to meet its housing targets.

Natural Resources Wales (NRW) has ruled that the Burry Inlet and Carmarthen Bay Estuary Special Area of Conservation is in an “unfavourable condition” due to excess nutrients. That means every new development in the catchment must now prove it will not add to pollution levels.

Ian Davies, the council’s development manager, told the planning committee:

“We have to be sure that the development is not adding to the nutrients that are entering the water course and therefore impacting adversely on water quality.”

He warned that while small schemes such as household extensions can be “screened out”, larger housing projects — from single dwellings to 500‑home estates — will be on hold unless developers can demonstrate nutrient neutrality.

“Some of the larger applications… are going to be on hold. My feeling is that’s likely to be months rather than weeks in resolving this, even longer potentially.”

The change affects some of Swansea’s biggest growth areas, including the Loughor Estuary and north‑west Swansea, where thousands of homes are allocated in the Local Development Plan.

Cllr Peter Black told the committee:

“This area is one of the biggest areas of new house building growth in Swansea… those bigger applications are going to be massively hit by this.”

Knock‑on effects for viability

Developers will be expected to fund mitigation measures, such as reed beds or land set aside for nutrient offsetting, secured for the lifetime of the development. Officers warned this could reduce the scope for Section 106 contributions, meaning fewer affordable homes or lower investment in schools and community facilities.

“You may see reports recommending approval but not at the sort of levels of policy requirements in terms of section 106 contributions,” Davies said.

Regional challenge, national task force

The rules apply equally to council‑led housing schemes, not just private developers. Swansea is now working with Welsh Government, NRW and neighbouring authorities through a new task force to find long‑term solutions.

Tom Evans, the council’s placemaking and strategic planning manager, stressed that Swansea is not being passive:

“We have a seat around the table at the Welsh Government task force… we are very closely involved in trying to find the solutions.”

Officials stressed the requirement is a matter of law under the Habitats Regulations, not optional guidance, and will shape how housing sites are brought forward in the next Local Development Plan.

What it means for people here

For families, it means fewer affordable homes and more bidding wars. For young people, it means being priced out or pushed further afield. For communities, it means the schools, GP surgeries and roads that were supposed to come with the big sites haven’t materialised, leaving existing services under strain. Instead, most of Swansea’s new homes are coming from smaller “windfall” sites like Cwmrhydyceirw Quarry and Hendrefoilan. They’ve delivered hundreds of homes, but without the infrastructure the SDAs were supposed to guarantee.

The road to LDP2

The council is now preparing a new Local Development Plan, known as LDP2, which will run to 2038. Officials say the lessons of the past five years will feed into it: why the strategic sites stalled, how to make development viable, and how to ensure infrastructure arrives alongside homes.

Evans added that continuing to monitor delivery will be important:

“Producing another monitoring report would help us see whether or not delivery has been significantly affected by these new constraints.”

The draft “Preferred Strategy” for LDP2 doesn’t re‑list the stalled strategic sites by name. Instead, all existing allocations are being reviewed — some may be carried forward, others dropped, and new ones added. More than a thousand “candidate sites” have been submitted by landowners and developers, but inclusion on the register doesn’t guarantee allocation. Only those judged sustainable and deliverable will make it into the next plan.

For campaigners in Penllergaer, Pontarddulais and Gowerton, it’s a chance to argue again that their communities cannot absorb the scale of development proposed. For those struggling to find a home, it’s a reminder that Swansea’s housing crisis is far from solved. The next plan will shape where the city grows for the next decade. The question is whether it can succeed where the last one has so clearly stumbled.

Officials have confirmed that nutrient neutrality will be a core test for candidate sites, with only those able to demonstrate mitigation likely to survive into the final plan.

🗂️ What is LDP2?

The new plan:
Swansea is replacing its current Local Development Plan with a new version, known as LDP2, which will run to 2038.

Preferred Strategy:
Published in late 2024, it sets the vision, growth level and broad approach for where new homes and jobs should go.

Candidate sites:
More than 1,000 pieces of land have been put forward by landowners and developers. These are not allocations — they are being assessed for suitability and deliverability.

Strategic sites under review:
The big sites from the current plan are being reassessed. Some may be carried forward, others dropped, and new ones added.

Timeline:
A detailed “Deposit Plan” with confirmed sites is due in 2026. Adoption of LDP2 is expected around 2027/28.

Environmental constraints such as nutrient neutrality will be central to which sites are judged “deliverable” in the new plan.

New school plan for Blaenymaes and Portmead sparks row over amalgamation

Swansea Council says the new school, due to open in 2031, will provide modern classrooms, improved outdoor facilities, a part‑time nursery, Flying Start provision and a Specialist Teaching Facility for pupils needing extra support.

The council’s cabinet has now approved publishing a statutory notice to amalgamate Blaenymaes and Portmead Primary Schools – but not until 2030, just a year before the new building is due to open.

That change follows feedback from staff, parents and pupils during consultation earlier this year. Originally, amalgamation was proposed for 2027.

Council view

Cabinet Member for Education Robert Smith said the delay was a direct response to community concerns:

“One of the clear messages from the consultation was that both communities recognise that better buildings and facilities are needed. The main concern expressed related to the proposed date of amalgamation and in response to these representations the change has been made so that amalgamation would not happen until 2030.”

He stressed that both schools will continue to operate as normal for the next five years while the new school is designed and built.

Council Leader Rob Stewart added:

“Working with our colleagues at Welsh Government we are committed to investing £420m in new and improved schools in the coming years. We have already delivered the largest investment in school infrastructure ever seen in Swansea and we will be announcing more investment proposals in the months to come.”

The proposed site for the new school is near the existing Blaenymaes Primary site.

Governors’ opposition

But the Governing Body of Portmead Primary School has issued a strong statement opposing the amalgamation.

While not against the principle of a new school building, governors say they are firmly against merging the two schools, warning it would damage pupils’ learning, well‑being and sense of identity.

They said:

“New is not always better, and both schools have worked extremely hard to develop their own bespoke approaches, offering the nurture, care, and community support that meet the specific needs of their pupils.”

Governors say they have collected more than 190 signatures from parents and visitors opposing the move adding that “the level of objection is extremely high”.

Governors added that they “remain concerned that merging two schools with distinct identities and educational needs will have a significant negative impact on pupils’ learning, well-being, and sense of belonging, while also undermining the strong community identity that has been built over many years.”

They also raised fears about what would happen to the Portmead site once it is vacated, warning it could become a magnet for anti‑social behaviour and vandalism.

“There are examples of abandoned school buildings nearby that have been left to fall into ruin posing a significant risk to the safety of others and are an eyesore for the local communities that have to deal with an increase in criminal activity,” the statement said.

What happens next

The statutory notice to amalgamate the schools will now be published, with a further consultation period to follow. A final decision on the future use of the existing school sites will be made at the end of that process if the proposal is approved.

#BlaenYMaes #BlaenYMaesPrimarySchool #CllrRobStewart #CllrRobertSmith #education #Portmead #PortmeadPrimarySchool #SchoolGovernors #Swansea #SwanseaCouncil

Merger of Blaenymaes and Portmead primary schools moves closer after consultation support

Swansea Council’s Cabinet will consider the findings on 18 September, with officers recommending the amalgamation goes ahead from the start of the 2026/27 academic year.

The statutory consultation, which ran earlier this year, invited views from parents, staff, governors, pupils and the wider community. According to the council’s report, most respondents supported the merger, highlighting the potential for better facilities, more efficient use of resources and greater opportunities for pupils and staff.

However, the process also drew objections. Some parents raised concerns about longer journeys for families living closer to Portmead, the loss of a school with deep community roots, and uncertainty over the future of the Portmead site. The council says these issues will be addressed through transition planning, further engagement and a separate decision on the site’s future use.

Schools to remain open until new building is ready

While the amalgamation would bring both schools under one headteacher and governing body from 2026, both existing sites would continue to operate for several years. Pupils would remain in their current buildings until a brand‑new, purpose‑built school is completed — currently expected to open in 2031.

The new school, planned near the existing Blaenymaes Primary site, would be large enough to accommodate all children in the community and include part‑time nursery and Flying Start provision, as well as a Specialist Teaching Facility for pupils needing additional support. It would also feature improved outdoor areas for play, learning and sport.

Why the merger is being proposed

Both Blaenymaes and Portmead primaries have seen a steady decline in pupil numbers, with surplus places now well above Welsh Government guidelines. The Blaenymaes site has the capacity to accommodate all pupils from both schools, and the council argues that operating from one school entity will improve the learning environment, support curriculum delivery and make better use of public funds.

The report stresses the proposal is “not a reflection on the quality of teaching or leadership” at either school, but a response to demographic change and the need to ensure “the right number of school places, of the right type, in the right locations” across Swansea.

Next steps

If Cabinet approves the recommendation, the council will publish a statutory notice confirming its intention to amalgamate. This will trigger a 28‑day period for formal objections before a final decision is made.

Should the plan proceed, the merged school would open in September 2026, with both existing sites continuing to operate until the new building is ready.

#BlaenYMaes #BlaenYMaesPrimarySchool #education #Portmead #PortmeadPrimarySchool #schoolMerger #Swansea #SwanseaCouncil

Generous Indian restaurant Rasoi serves up free meals for children at events

The meals — curry and rice prepared by local restaurant Rasoi — were served at Back to School with a Cwtch events run by Swansea-based charity, Faith in Families.

Alongside the hot food, nearly 1,000 free backpacks and school supplies were handed out to help children start the new school year feeling prepared and valued.

Cherrie Bija, CEO of Faith in Families, said the summer holidays can be a particularly challenging time for many families:

“Back to School with a Cwtch is about more than supplies — it’s about giving children the confidence to start the school year feeling valued and prepared. Thanks to Rasoi, families could sit down together over a warm, delicious meal, turning what could have been a stressful day into a moment of connection.

“In a time when the cost of living is higher than the average wage, many hardworking parents just need that extra hand — and when our community comes together like this, no child is left behind.”

Rasoi, which has restaurants in SA1 and Pontlliw, said it wanted to support the charity’s mission by helping to remove one of the pressures families face at the end of the summer break.

Suki Kullar, owner of Rasoi, said:

“We know how tough the summer holidays and back‑to‑school period can be for many families, so being able to provide a warm meal and a moment of togetherness felt really important.

“Seeing children and parents relax, smile, and share food was a reminder of why we do this. We’re proud to support Faith in Families and the incredible work they do every day for those who need it most.”

Faith in Families works year‑round across Swansea, offering practical help, activities and opportunities for children and their families to help break the cycle of poverty.

#BlaenYMaes #Charity #Clase #FaithInFamilies #IndianRestaurant #Pontlliw #Portmead #RasoiIndianKitchen #SA1

Local restaurant serves over 1,400 meals to families in Blaenymaes, Portmead and Clase during summer holiday support events

The meals — curry and rice prepared by local restaurant Rasoi — were served at Back to School with a Cwtch events run by Swansea-based charity, Faith in Families.

Alongside the hot food, nearly 1,000 free backpacks and school supplies were handed out to help children start the new school year feeling prepared and valued.

Cherrie Bija, CEO of Faith in Families, said the summer holidays can be a particularly challenging time for many families:

“Back to School with a Cwtch is about more than supplies — it’s about giving children the confidence to start the school year feeling valued and prepared. Thanks to Rasoi, families could sit down together over a warm, delicious meal, turning what could have been a stressful day into a moment of connection.

“In a time when the cost of living is higher than the average wage, many hardworking parents just need that extra hand — and when our community comes together like this, no child is left behind.”

Rasoi, which has restaurants in SA1 and Pontlliw, said it wanted to support the charity’s mission by helping to remove one of the pressures families face at the end of the summer break.

Suki Kullar, owner of Rasoi, said:

“We know how tough the summer holidays and back‑to‑school period can be for many families, so being able to provide a warm meal and a moment of togetherness felt really important.

“Seeing children and parents relax, smile, and share food was a reminder of why we do this. We’re proud to support Faith in Families and the incredible work they do every day for those who need it most.”

Faith in Families works year‑round across Swansea, offering practical help, activities and opportunities for children and their families to help break the cycle of poverty.

#BlaenYMaes #Charity #Clase #FaithInFamilies #IndianRestaurant #Pontlliw #Portmead #RasoiIndianKitchen #SA1

Violent Blaenymaes man jailed after attacking ex-partner

26-year-old William Mayberry, from Blaenymaes, headbutted the victim after a verbal argument before smashing her phone, all in the presence of her one-year-old son, on Monday June 16. Mayberry also pushed the infant in the back, causing him to fall.

Mayberry later made threats towards the victim and her parents.

Mayberry pleaded not guilty to the offences, but was found guilty of all of them August. In total, he was found guilty of five counts of assault by beating, one count of threatening to damage property, one count of using threatening behaviour to cause fear of violence, and one count of criminal damage to property under £5,000.

Mayberry has been sentenced to 52 weeks in prison and been ordered to pay compensation of £1,440.00 to the victim. He has also been made subject of a restraining order against the victim and her family for a period of three years.

Sergeant Rachael Draisey said:

“William Mayberry’s offending was already completely unacceptable, but to also target a defenceless child was a shocking indictment of his poor character.

“We hope the victim and the family take some comfort in his jail sentence and the restraining order which will remove him from their lives.”

You can report domestic abuse by reporting online, calling 101, or if a crime is happening now or someone is in immediate danger, call 999. You can make a report to Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111

[Lead image: South Wales Police]

#Blaenymaes #domesticViolence #SouthWalesPolice

Serial offender jailed after driving stolen van into Fforestfach e-bike shop

Matthew Morgan, 40, has been sentenced to 40 months in prison after pleading guilty to theft, criminal damage and stealing a motor vehicle in connection with the incident at Uprise Bikes on May 12.

Morgan stole a DHL delivery van, damaging several vehicles belonging to another business before using the van to smash through the front of the Uprise Electric store on Kingsway, Swansea West Industrial Estate. He then stole two electric bikes from inside the premises.

The break-in, described by the store as “aggressive”, occurred in the early hours and was captured on CCTV. Although the suspect was masked, detectives were able to identify Morgan as responsible for both the vehicle theft and the forced entry.

Detective Constable Richard Olsen, of South Wales Police, said: “Matthew Morgan is a repeat offender who continues to show wilful disregard for the law. Thankfully, the security measures at the premises worked as expected, and the incident was captured on CCTV, albeit with the suspect being masked. Thanks to the hard work of detectives, Matthew Morgan was identified as responsible for stealing the van and then subsequently forcing his way into the store during the night. With this prison term, the people of Swansea will fortunately not have to tolerate Matthew Morgan’s criminal behaviour for the foreseeable future.”

Morgan was previously charged alongside Natalie Squibb, 37, from Portmead, who was also arrested and charged with burglary following the incident.

The store, which opened in April 2024, temporarily closed after the raid but reopened the next day, posting on social media: “We’re back—and more fired up than ever. The coffee’s on, and the good vibes are flowing. We’ve still got some clean-up ahead, but nothing’s stopping us. The Uprise crew is back and ready to roll. Let’s ride!”

#BlaenYMaes #burglary #electricBike #Fforestfach #ramRaid #SouthWalesPolice #theft #vehicleTheft

Swansea Community sports facilities to get £10m boost

Extra investment in the councillor-led Community Investment Fund will see it rise to almost £10m by 2027 for spending on neighbourhood projects that matter to local people.

Under proposals agreed by Cabinet, sports changing places at Cwm Level, Trallwn, Ynystawe, Tir Canol, Blaenymaes and Bonymaen are all set to benefit from funding totalling £3m.

As well as direct support from the council, the funding includes grant aid from a variety of sources and a potential £1m spread over two years from the Cymru Football Foundation.

In addition, the skate parks programme that’s already seen one open at Coed Bach and two more consultations earmarked for Gowerton and Ynystawe, will be boosted to at least £2.9m by 2027. The wheeled sports master plan includes proposals for a roll-out of facilities so that no-one is more than a couple of miles away from their nearest one.

On top of that, councillors will see the Community Investment fund increase by a further £1m so that ward members can invest in a wide range of local assets such as reinstalling woodland paths, extra play equipment and supporting community ventures, to name but a few.

The near-£10m of investment covers the period between 2024/25 and 2026/27.

Rob Stewart, Leader of the Council, said it was further evidence that the council is investing in projects that matter to communities right across the city.

He said: “Coming on top of targeted funding like £8m for play areas across our city, the Community Investment Fund is designed so that no neighbourhood feels left behind or overlooked when it comes to the little things that can make a big difference.

“Residents told us they wanted more play areas that are modern and accessible. So we have delivered more than 60 of them.

“They told us they wanted to never be far from good quality skate parks. So we are delivering a multi-layered network of facilities that create a stage for inspirational riding and make it easy for anyone to take up wheeled sports in their community.

“And they’ve said sports changing facilities need upgrading so they are fit for a modern environment and available to all. So now we are acting on that too.”

He added: “Councillors are uniquely well-placed to know what kind of small-scale projects and initiatives going on in their area deserve a boost from the council.

“By boosting councillors’ community budget schemes to almost £4m in the period between 2024/25 ad 2026/27 we’ll be able to make sure the money goes a long way, making a difference all across Swansea.”

Cllr Stewart said: “The pandemic demonstrated beyond doubt the importance of outdoor facilities to our communities, the wellbeing of young people and families and the value of decent facilities on their doorsteps.

“In the cost of living crisis, we’ve continued to see just how important outdoor facilities have been to groups, families and individuals. It’s resulting in the biggest investment in outdoor community play and sports facilities by the council in more than a generation.”

#BlaenYMaes #Bonymaen #CoedBachPark #CwmLevelRoad #Swansea #SwanseaCouncil #TirCanol #Trallwn #Ynystawe

Portmead plasterer jailed for drug dealing

23-year-old Corey Fethney, from Portmead, was arrested on 26 March after police noticed his mobile number and and Snapchat kept coming up in the phones of drug users, with messages offering the “best and cheapest” cocaine.

Police discovered a mobile phone Fethney’s Broughton Avenue bedroom that was confirmed to be tied to a drug line which was under investigation.

Fethney had previously been sentenced in September 2022 for sentenced to 36 months for the supply of cocaine and possession of cannabis with intent to supply. He had been released on licence in August 2023, but following his latest arrest had been recalled to prison.

He has been sentenced to 54 months in prison for his latest drug dealing offences.

Detective Sergeant Luke Tucker from South Wales Police said: “It is always disappointing when a young individual who has previously been sentenced for a drugs offence – as Corey Fethney was in 2022 – finds themselves back in the exact same position just a few years later.

“This is not the first time Corey has been involved with illegal activity of this kind, and for his sake, we hope it’s the last.”

#BlaenYMaes #cocaine #drugs #Portmead #SouthWalesPolice #Swansea

Three Swansea drug dealers jailed for dealing cocaine

South Wales Police say 34-year-old Rhys Higgins, from Portmead, 28-year-old Liam McCabe, from Blaenymaes, and 50-year-old Dennis McCabe, from Cockett were subject of warrants at their home addresses on October 17 last year.

Significant sums of cash were found at each of the addresses, totalling over £137,000. Two of the addresses contained five mobile phones each, while the third contained 93 wraps of crack cocaine and electronic scales.

Evidence was also uncovered tying the three men to the purchase of multi-kilo quantities of cocaine.

They have been sentenced to ten years (Rhys Higgins), seven years and six months (Liam McCabe) and three years (Dennis McCabe) in prison respectively.

Detective Sergeant Luke Tucker from South Wales Police said: “Rhys Higgins, Liam McCabe and Dennis McCabe are just the latest examples of drug supply criminals being brought to justice in our force area.

“All had significant quantities of cash in their home addresses, which highlights that their illegal activities were purely for financial gain, and they did not care at all for the welfare of those who purchased the drugs that they supplied.

“Each is now, rightly, beginning a lengthy spell in prison. Drug crime does not pay – as with so many others, our officers will identify you, and you will be brought to justice.”

(Lead image: South Wales Police)

#BlaenYMaes #cocaine #Cockett #drugs #Portmead #SouthWalesPolice #Swansea

Former Swansea youth centre transformed into apartments

Renovations have now been completed at the site of the former Sparks Education Centre in Blaenymaes, which has been converted into four residential flats.

The completed project features 2 one-bedroom apartments and 2 two-bedroom apartments, bringing back to life a disused building that has been out of use for a number of years.

Additional tree planting and hedgerows, as well as the installation of bird and bat boxes, will help boost the community’s green credentials and biodiversity.

Funding for the latest council-led More Homes programme has been acquired through the Welsh Government Transitional Accommodation Capital Funding programme along with additional funding via the council’s housing revenue account.

The refurbishment of the old building into flats has been designed and completed by the council’s Building Services Team.

Andrea Lewis, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Service Transformation, said:

“One of our aims, in terms of increasing our overall housing stock in Swansea, is to look at our options for repurposing disused council-owned properties.

“This latest scheme in Blaenymaes is another excellent example of our efforts to make use of existing buildings across the city, converting them into much needed council accommodation.”

The council has already completed similar projects to help boost its housing stock, with schemes completed at the former Penlan and Eastside District Housing Offices, transforming them into new apartments.

Contractors have also recently moved onto a site in Manselton where the former educational facility – Brondeg House, has been demolished, making way for the development of 13 new council homes.

Cllr Lewis added: “This is part of a significant investment by the Council – more than £55 million has been pledged towards housing for 2024/25 and we have committed to spending £250 million during the next five years.

“Our commitment will ensure we can ease pressures on our current housing waiting list and provide modern, safe and affordable housing for those who need it most.”

[Lead image: Swansea Council]

#Blaenymaes #housing #SparksEducationCentre #SwanseaCouncil