#cllrrobstewart — Public Fediverse posts

£20m boost for Swansea Civic Centre days after MP’s call for action

In an opinion piece published by Swansea Bay News on Sunday, Mr Bell said reviving the Civic Centre should be the city’s “next big regeneration step” — and urged momentum behind the proposals.

Now, that push appears to have paid off.

The funding follows months of campaigning by the MP and is being described as a key step towards turning recently unveiled plans for the Civic Centre into reality — although it will still need to go through further checks, including due diligence and approval of a final business case, before it is formally released.

Those plans — drawn up with Swansea Council and development partners Urban Splash — would see the site transformed into a mixed-use destination, featuring cafes, bars, shops, workspaces and leisure space, alongside around 140 apartments and 15 commercial units.

Headline attractions include proposals for a saltwater lido and a new aquarium, with the latter designed as a “next generation” visitor experience combining live marine exhibits with cutting-edge digital technology.

The attraction is also expected to work closely with Swansea University’s marine experts, with a strong focus on education and conservation.

Swansea Bay News has charted the rapid progress of the scheme in recent weeks, from the release of the first artist impressions to cabinet backing and strong public interest during consultation.

But until now, a central question has remained: how the transformation would actually be funded.

The £20 million investment from the UK Government begins to answer that — and is expected to help unlock the next phase of the project as it moves beyond consultation, with a planning application anticipated later this year.

For decades, the Civic Centre has served as a base for council services, but with departments now relocating — including to the new Y Storfa hub — attention has quickly turned to the future of the prominent seafront complex.

Torsten Bell, MP for Swansea West said securing “major investment” in what he describes as an “iconic Swansea landmark” has been a “personal priority”.

Mr Bell said: “With £20m funding from the UK Labour Government, this is another big step forward for the city.

“With its prime spot overlooking the splendid curve of our beach, the building is crying out for a new lease of life. And that is exactly what we are going to give it, as we keep investing in Swansea’s future, not just remembering its past.

“Great progress has been made with the opening of Y Storfa and regeneration of the Palace Theatre. Works to improve Castle Gardens and open new offices from the Kingsway to St David’s are also underway. The momentum is real – it’s vital we harness it.”

He added that the Civic Centre funding is part of a wider package of UK Government investment in Swansea, including a further £20 million through the Pride in Place scheme, as well as commitments to rail improvements and the proposed Swansea Bay Metro.

Cllr Rob Stewart, Leader of Swansea Council, said the funding represented a major vote of confidence in the city’s wider regeneration plans.

He said: “We want to see the Civic Centre transformed into a high-quality landmark destination for living, working and enjoying, with new homes, independent businesses and leisure spaces that benefit local people while attracting more visitors to Swansea.”

He added that the waterfront site offered “one of the most spectacular locations in the UK” and said the investment would help the project move forward more quickly.

Jo Stevens, Secretary of State for Wales, said the funding would help unlock the full potential of the site.

She said: “This investment will help deliver ambitious plans for the Civic Centre and transform this part of the city, making the most of its spectacular location and strengthening Swansea as a destination for visitors.”

The redevelopment also forms part of a broader wave of regeneration across the city, linking the waterfront site with ongoing changes in the city centre and beyond.

If delivered, the scheme could provide a significant boost to the local economy, with estimates suggesting it could generate around £17 million a year and support more than 300 jobs across hospitality, retail, leisure and building management, alongside additional roles linked to the proposed aquarium.

While key details — including timelines for construction and how the scheme will be delivered — are still to be confirmed, a planning application is expected later this year as proposals continue to be developed.

The funding itself remains subject to final approvals, but the announcement marks the clearest sign yet that the recently revealed plans are now moving from ambition towards delivery.

And coming just days after the issue was put firmly back in the spotlight, it suggests momentum around Swansea’s Civic Centre is building fast.

Council fraud team saves £1.1m by clamping down on system abuse and benefits cheats

Swansea Council says the impressive figure highlights its efforts against those who misuse public funds, with the fraud team uncovering significant overpayments and fraudulent claims.

Almost £470,000 was identified in social housing overpayments, alongside a similar sum in housing and welfare benefits, according to the council’s latest report.

Cllr Rob Stewart, Leader of Swansea Council, stressed the vital importance of ensuring that the millions of pounds of public money spent on services every year reaches those who truly need it.

He issued a clear warning that the council would take firm action against fraud wherever it is found.

“Among local authorities in Wales our fraud team has helped lead the way in seeking out, detecting and acting in cases of fraud,” Cllr Stewart stated.

He believes the counter-fraud team’s proactive approach has established a strong deterrent effect on would-be fraudsters.

The council’s ongoing work to tackle fraud is detailed in the counter-fraud team’s half-yearly report, which is being presented to the Governance and Audit committee this week.

The report also noted a low number of internal fraud claims within the council itself.

Only nine cases of internal fraud were reported among a workforce exceeding 11,000 employees.

Four of these cases have already been concluded, with five remaining under active investigation.

Cllr Stewart acknowledged that fraud is a widespread issue in society, and councils, like other organisations, are targets.

He noted that both individuals and more organised criminal elements attempt to defraud public services.

“This half-year report shows Swansea Council is not a soft touch and we will challenge fraud wherever we find it, aiming to bring to justice those engaged in such practices,” Cllr Stewart declared.

The council’s robust efforts aim to ensure that every penny of the millions spent on services annually is protected for legitimate use.

Residents are encouraged to report any suspected fraudulent activity to the council.

M&S ROW: Council leader accuses Senedd candidate of using job losses for ‘deplorable’ election campaign

Swansea Council Leader Rob Stewart has hit back at political opponents over the closure of the city’s M&S store, calling it “deplorable” that a Senedd candidate is using the potential loss of 90 local jobs for his election campaign.

The blistering attack comes in response to criticism from Liberal Democrat Senedd candidate Sam Bennett and Swansea Lib Dem leader Cllr Chris Holley, who yesterday questioned the council’s regeneration priorities in the wake of the M&S closure announcement.

In a statement, the Labour leader launched a full-throated defence of his administration’s record while attacking the previous Liberal Democrat-led council.

“It’s deplorable that Cllr Sam Bennett is using the closure of the store with the potential loss of 90 local jobs to try and further his Senedd election campaign,” Cllr Stewart said.

The attack is politically charged, as both men are candidates in the new Gŵyr Abertawe Senedd constituency for the 2026 election. Cllr Stewart is ranked second on the Welsh Labour list, while Cllr Bennett is the lead candidate for the Welsh Liberal Democrats.

He also criticised his Lib Dem counterpart, stating, “It’s also disappointing to see Cllr Holley doesn’t have confidence in Swansea, or its traders and businesses.”

Cllr Stewart claimed his opponents “have not openly supported any of the developments in Swansea delivered over the last 11 years” and are “critics of the £1.3bn city deal.”

He also revealed that M&S has not given up on the city, stating, “M&S are actively looking for a different location in Swansea and have acknowledged the positive impact the regeneration is having.”

He then turned his fire on the record of the previous Liberal Democrat administration, which was led by Cllr Holley for much of its tenure, and controlled Swansea Council from 2004-2012.

“The Lib Dems introduced the disastrous bendy bus, continually dug up the Kingsway and introduced the mad road system, and absolutely failed to invest and support local businesses to grow,” he said.

“They have no ambition for Swansea.”

Public meeting called as fight to save the Ospreys intensifies

Swansea Council Leader Rob Stewart and Swansea West MP Torsten Bell will host the meeting at the Guildhall at 6.30pm on Wednesday 4 February, bringing together supporters, former players and community figures who want to keep men’s professional rugby in the city.

The move comes as anger continues to build over the WRU’s plans to cut the number of elite teams from four to three — a proposal widely believed to put the Ospreys most at risk. The meeting is being billed as a chance for supporters to hear the latest developments, discuss next steps and show the strength of feeling across Swansea Bay.

Torsten Bell said the Ospreys had been treated with “zero respect” by the WRU in recent weeks.

“The Ospreys matter to our city, to our communities, and to loyal supporters who deserve to be treated with more than the zero respect that the WRU have shown them,” he said. “At this uncertain moment, it’s vital that we come together, share information, and show that the whole region stands united behind its team.”

Council leader Rob Stewart said the fight was about far more than sport.

“This is about more than rugby – it’s about pride, community and the future of professional sport in our city,” he said. “We want to make sure the voices of supporters and local leaders are heard loud and clear.”

The meeting is open to supporters, community representatives and anyone concerned about the Ospreys’ future. Those planning to attend have been asked to RSVP via [email protected].

The announcement marks the latest escalation in a crisis that has already seen senior players, MPs, actors, councillors and supporters’ groups unite in opposition to the WRU’s direction. With a petition now gathering signatures across Wales and political pressure mounting, campaigners say the public meeting is another chance to show the union the strength of local resolve.

Related stories from Swansea Bay News

Supporters’ groups from three regions unite to launch petition
Official supporters’ groups from Ospreys, Scarlets and Cardiff joined forces to oppose the WRU’s restructure plans.

Alun Wyn Jones warns WRU plan would leave a ‘rugby black hole’
The former Wales captain cautioned that cutting the Ospreys would devastate rugby across Swansea Bay.

Swansea Council unites in dramatic show of support
Councillors backed the region amid growing fears over its future.

MPs accuse WRU of ‘stitch‑up’ as pressure intensifies
Swansea MPs criticised the WRU’s handling of the restructuring process.

Michael Sheen urges WRU to rethink Ospreys future
The actor added his voice to calls for the WRU to change course.

Swansea Council blasts WRU as Ospreys face being ‘wiped out’
The council warned the region was at risk in the proposed shake‑up.

Council leader tables emergency motion over Ospreys future

The motion will be debated at today’s full council meeting at the Guildhall, where members of the public will be able to ask questions before councillors vote on the proposal.

Rob Stewart, leader of Swansea Council, said he was “extremely concerned” about the WRU’s direction, warning that the governing body’s plan, combined with confirmation that Y11 is negotiating to buy Cardiff Rugby, poses a direct threat to the Ospreys’ future as a regional side. He said recent developments had “deviated significantly” from the WRU’s own stated approach and were “neither fair nor transparent”.

Stewart said the WRU had never provided evidence to support its claim that Wales lacks the money or talent to sustain four regions. He pointed out that the WRU received more than £20 million more than the Irish Rugby Football Union last year, despite Ireland continuing to fund four successful regions and achieving major success at club and international level.

The motion urges the WRU to withdraw its proposal immediately, citing the impact on Swansea residents, future generations, local wellbeing and the concerns expressed by supporters, players and clubs.

The intervention comes after weeks of escalating tension. Ospreys legends recently united to demand a rethink, while Swansea Council previously blasted the WRU over fears the region could be “wiped out”. Talks have since taken place over a possible return to St Helen’s, but the row deepened when Ospreys chief executive Lance Bradley hit back at the council in a public dispute over the region’s future. Local MPs have also accused the WRU of a “stitch‑up”.

Stewart’s motion goes further than previous statements, confirming support for “any reasonable actions” to secure the Ospreys’ future in Swansea, including potential legal action to prevent the WRU from ending regional rugby in the city. It also commits to redeveloping St Helen’s into a modern venue capable of hosting the region, while stressing that any development of women’s rugby must be in addition to, not instead of, retaining the Ospreys.

The motion instructs Stewart and senior officers to write to the WRU, the Ospreys, Y11, World Rugby and other relevant bodies to set out Swansea’s position and request support in protecting regional rugby.

The political pressure follows a high‑profile intervention from actor Michael Sheen, who urged the WRU to rethink its plans earlier this week. With former players, politicians, supporters and now the council leader united in opposition, scrutiny on the WRU continues to intensify.

Emergency motion submitted by Cllr Rob Stewart

This council is extremely concerned about the WRU’s plan to cut regional rugby from four teams to three. It will have a significant impact on sport and wellbeing in the Swansea Bay region and will negatively impact the economy of Swansea and South Wales.

We are especially concerned about the impacts the WRU plan has on the Ospreys’ future as a regional team, following the WRU confirmation that Y11 is negotiating to buy Cardiff Rugby from the WRU. The Council is concerned that recent developments have deviated significantly from the WRU’s own approach and are neither fair nor transparent.

The WRU have claimed there is not enough money or talent in Wales to continue with four regions. They have never provided detailed evidence to support this statement. We believe there are sufficient resources within the WRU to fund four successful regions going forward. The WRU received more than £20 million more than the Irish Rugby Football Union, who have retained four regions and are achieving significant success at regional and national level.

Given the significance of safeguarding the future of Welsh rugby, acknowledging the impact on Swansea residents, future generations, wellbeing and the considerable concerns expressed by fans, players, clubs and the wider public regarding the WRU’s current proposals, we urge the WRU to immediately reconsider its approach and withdraw its proposal to reduce the number of professional regional rugby teams in Wales from four to three.

This council resolves that we fully endorse and support the statements made by the Leader and the Council following the meeting with the WRU and Ospreys Chief Executives.

We fully support the Council in taking any reasonable actions to ensure the future of the Ospreys as a regional professional side continuing to play in Swansea. This includes any appropriate legal action to prevent the WRU from ending regional rugby in Swansea.

We support any efforts the Council may wish to take to explore opportunities to encourage, promote and develop women’s rugby to be played in Swansea, but this must be in addition to the retention of the Ospreys as a regional rugby team based in Swansea.

We support the Council in its commitment to redevelop St Helen’s to support the creation of an enhanced modern rugby venue to meet the aspirations of the Ospreys region to return to St Helen’s. This does not preclude the Ospreys negotiating use of the Swansea.com Stadium for individual games should they need to do so.

We request the Leader or the relevant officers write to the WRU, the Ospreys, Y11, World Rugby or any other relevant party to outline the Council’s position and request assistance in taking whatever actions are necessary to protect regional rugby in Swansea and the future success of rugby at all levels in Wales.

Ospreys legends unite to demand WRU rethink over club’s future

The move comes amid growing fears that the Ospreys could be cut from the top tier after the Welsh Rugby Union named Y11 Sport & Media — the club’s current owners — as the preferred buyer for rivals Cardiff.

The WRU wants to reduce the number of men’s professional teams in Wales from four to three. But former players say the proposals risk triggering a “downward spiral” and threaten the future of rugby across Swansea, Neath Port Talbot and Bridgend.

In a statement signed by dozens of ex‑players, coaches and staff, the group praised current head coach Mark Jones and his squad for their “absolute commitment” despite the uncertainty — and warned that cutting a team “comes with no guarantee of success”.

“You don’t quit because you didn’t win,” the statement said. “You work harder, adapt, change and rebuild.”

The group includes Ryan Jones, James Hook, Barry Williams, Ian Gough, Richard Hibbard, Paul James, Tommy Bowe and former coach Sean Holley. They say the time is right to speak up — and they’re willing to meet the WRU to help shape a “positive future” for the sport.

They argue that Welsh rugby’s golden era — including six Six Nations titles and four Grand Slams — was built on four strong teams, and that removing one now would be a mistake.

“What the game needs is confidence, consistency and collaboration,” they said. “Not constant shifts in direction, where four teams, then two, then three are all presented as the ‘optimal’ solution within a single year.”

The statement also backs Swansea Council Leader Rob Stewart’s call to halt the process, warning that the redevelopment of St Helen’s is at risk and that support for the WRU’s proposals is “lacking across the wider Welsh rugby community”.

The group drew comparisons with Connacht, the Irish region once earmarked for closure in 2003. After public opposition forced a rethink, Connacht went on to win the league and recently celebrated the opening of a redeveloped stadium in Galway.

“It is not too late for the WRU to do the same,” the statement said. “Restoring Welsh rugby will take partnership, not imposition.”

Statement from Former Ospreys

As former Ospreys, we feel the time is right to speak up and show our support for the current players and staff during what is clearly a very difficult and uncertain time. It’s hard to imagine the pressure they’re under, yet they continue to perform with pride in the badge, and absolute commitment — just as we saw again on Saturday.

Mark Jones and his coaching team deserve huge credit for the way they are leading in the middle of all this uncertainty. Unfortunately, both the WRU and Y11 have provided very little clarity about their plans, and even now, after the announcement of a preferred buyer for Cardiff, there is still no real explanation of what this means for the Ospreys.

We support the call made by Swansea Council Leader Rob Stewart for the WRU and Y11 to pause the current process and rethink their approach. What is being proposed puts at risk the future of professional rugby across Swansea, Neath Port Talbot and Bridgend and the redevelopment of an historic rugby venue at St Helen’s.

It is also important to recognise how little support these proposals appear to have across the wider Welsh rugby community. In particular, Ospreys and Cardiff supporters are united in their opposition and their concern about the future for their respective teams.

Following the restructure in 2003 Welsh rugby enjoyed an incredible period of success, a golden era that compares to any other. Six Six Nations titles, four Grand Slams (more than any other nation in this period) and sustained international competitiveness were built on four strong teams. Three of the four professional teams have lifted major trophies, and only Leinster have won the Celtic League more times than the Ospreys.

Sport always goes in cycles. There are highs and lows, good years and tough years. No team wins everything, all of the time. You don’t quit because you didn’t win. You work harder, adapt, change and rebuild. The challenges are what make the successes more special.

A lack of long-term investment and clear planning by previous regimes has left Welsh rugby in a difficult place. But real progress will only come through working together. Change is needed, but it must be built through partnership, not imposed by one side alone.

Cutting a team comes with no guarantee of future success. We believe it more likely to lead to the opposite scenario, with Welsh rugby caught in a downward spiral.

For many of us, it was impossible not to notice the scenes in Galway at the weekend, where a record crowd celebrated the opening of Connacht’s redeveloped stadium. That happened because when presented with the same challenges the IRFU listened to the weight of public opinion, paused, and changed direction. It is not too late for the WRU to do the same.

We know the road ahead will be bumpy but we firmly believe that Welsh rugby can recover if there is a clear, stable and shared vision. What the game needs is confidence, consistency and collaboration — not constant shifts in direction, where four teams, then two, then three are all presented as the “optimal” solution within a single year.

Between us, we have decades of experience at the highest level of the game and a deep connection to the Ospreys, our community clubs and the national team. We are ready to meet with the WRU, individually or collectively, to share that experience and help shape a positive future for Welsh rugby.

Our Blood Is Black

The Ospreys are currently eighth in the United Rugby Championship and preparing to face Ulster in the last 16 of the Challenge Cup.

More Ospreys News

Swansea Council and Ospreys confirm talks over St Helen’s return
Discussions underway about bringing the region back to its historic home.

Rugby ‘civil war’ as Ospreys boss blasts council
Tensions erupt over claims the region has no long‑term future.

Jones frustrated with Lions result but proud of Ospreys
Head coach praises his side’s fight despite a tough defeat.

MPs accuse WRU of ‘stitch‑up’ as pressure grows
Political scrutiny intensifies over the region’s uncertain future.

Swansea Council blasts WRU over threat to Ospreys
Council leaders warn the shake‑up risks wiping out the region.

Ospreys chief breaks silence after WRU confirms Cardiff sale plan
Y11’s move sparks fresh questions about the region’s future.

WRU confirms plan to sell Cardiff Rugby to Y11
Announcement deepens uncertainty for the Ospreys beyond next season.

Thousands flock to new city centre hub as Y Storfa officially opens

The former BHS department store on Oxford Street has been transformed into a buzzing community hub, bringing the city’s Central Library, housing services, archives and advice centres together under one roof.

Crowds pour in since doors opened

Y Storfa has been open since December 1 and has already welcomed thousands through its doors. Social media has been flooded with praise from locals.

Visitor Pat Baldrian said:

“I really like it. I’ll be a regular visitor – it’s so convenient whilst in town.”

Ronny Oner added:

“It was super busy when we popped in to have a gander.”

Ministers cut the ribbon

The hub was formally opened today (December 17) by Julie James MS, Counsel General and Minister for Delivery, alongside Swansea Council leader Rob Stewart and cabinet member Elliott King.

Council leader Rob Stewart said:

“It’s fantastic that Y Storfa has enjoyed successful public and formal openings – and that so many people have already visited and given us great feedback. It’ll deliver essential services to people from across Swansea and will help drive new business to nearby traders. It’ll be even better when we complete our ongoing transformation of the neighbouring Castle Square which will soon be greener and more welcoming than ever.”

Services under one roof

Inside Y Storfa, visitors will find the city’s Central Library, a children’s library with sensory play, the West Glamorgan Archive Service, Housing Options and Housing Support, plus bases for Careers Wales and Citizens Advice Swansea Neath Port Talbot. Swansea University’s South Wales Miners’ Library has also moved in.

To mark the opening, an exhibition in the community event space highlights the building’s history and the changing face of the city centre.

Praise from partners

Jayne Bryant, Welsh Government cabinet secretary for housing and local government, said:

“With the opening of Y Storfa, we’re bringing essential services together under one roof – making support more accessible while creating a vibrant hub that strengthens Swansea’s community and boosts local businesses. I’m proud that our Welsh Government Transforming Town programme helped to fund this project, and I’m delighted that so many residents of all ages are already using this fantastic space.”

Caroline Newman, chief officer of Citizens Advice Swansea Neath Port Talbot, said:

“Citizens Advice Swansea Neath Port Talbot are already settling in to Y Storfa. Access for clients is much easier and the surroundings warm, bright and welcoming. Having the right environment is far more conducive to helping some of the most vulnerable people in our community.”

Sian Williams, head of Cultural Collections at Swansea University, said:

“We are delighted that Y Storfa will be the new home of the South Wales Miners’ Library. Our new location will mean these remarkable collections — rich in stories of Wales and Swansea’s industrial and cultural heritage — are even more accessible. We look forward to collaborating with Swansea Council colleagues and the other Y Storfa tenants to engage new audiences, inspiring and informing future generations.”

A new heartbeat for the city

With hundreds of nearby parking spaces and easy access to public transport, Y Storfa is set to become a central hub for Swansea life.

Ian Rees, regional director for Kier Construction Western & Wales, said:

“It has been fantastic to see Y Storfa buzzing with life since it opened. Delivering this vibrant space in the heart of Swansea city centre embodies our commitment to creating sustainable, community‑focused facilities that will benefit future generations for decades to come.”

The council says the hub will grow even further once the neighbouring Castle Square is transformed into a greener, more welcoming public space.

Related stories from Swansea Bay News

Swansea city centre library opens at Y Storfa
The new Central Library opens its doors inside Y Storfa, offering books, digital access and sensory spaces.

New Swansea city centre hub Y Storfa opens its doors
Thousands visit Y Storfa in its first week as council services, archives and advice centres move in.

Castle Square transformation work set to start in January
Major works begin next month to create a greener, more welcoming public space next to Y Storfa.

#archives #BHS #CastleSquare #CentralLibrary #CitizensAdviceCymru #CllrRobStewart #CommunityHub #HousingOptions #KierConstruction #Library #OxfordStreet #PrincessWay #Swansea #SwanseaCouncil #SwanseaLibraries #SwanseaUniversityMinersLibrary #WestGlamorganArchiveService #YStorfa

200 recycled laptops donated to young people in Swansea

Partnership tackles digital exclusion

The devices, refurbished and donated by DVLA, are being distributed by Swansea Council to children and young people supported by social services, youth and education teams, as well as students in schools and colleges. Some have also been provided to people accessing the council’s Domestic Abuse Hub.

The scheme, launched in 2021, is part of the UK Government’s IT Reuse for Good charter, which encourages organisations to repurpose equipment to promote digital inclusion. DVLA was one of the first signatories.

Council welcomes latest donation

Council Leader Rob Stewart said the partnership was already making a difference:

“We were the first council to partner with DVLA on their innovative Digital Inclusion Scheme, with hundreds of pupils at our schools benefiting over the last few years.

“This latest donation of 200 laptops has been put to very good use, supporting young people and families who access our services, including looked after children and young people working hard to secure training and employment. This will make a real and positive difference to them, and I’m proud that the council and DVLA have worked together to achieve this.”

DVLA: ‘Helping people chase their goals’

Tim Moss CBE, DVLA Chief Executive, said:

“It’s fantastic to see how our Digital Inclusion Scheme is helping young people across Swansea. Not everyone has access to a laptop at home, so being able to pass on our refurbished kit means more people can get online, learn new skills, and chase their goals. We’re proud to work with Swansea Council on this – it’s a great way to support the community and make a real difference.”

Environmental benefits

As well as supporting digital access, the scheme extends the life of laptops and reduces the number of devices sent for disposal, contributing to DVLA’s carbon reduction targets.

All donated devices are securely cleansed to government standards and provided with operating system licences through the Microsoft Authorised Refurbisher programme.

#CllrRobStewart #computers #digitalExclusion #donatedComputers #DVLA #ITReuseForGoodCharter #MicrosoftAuthorisedRefurbisherProgramme #recycledComputers #refurbishedComputers #Swansea #SwanseaCouncil #TimMossCBE

Swansea Central Library prepares for move to Y Storfa

Swansea Council has confirmed that all library services at the Civic Centre will close on Monday, October 20, with the new Y Storfa facility due to open several weeks later. The exact opening date will be announced soon.

Around 60,000 books and other items are being carefully packed for the move, including 5,000 historic and modern maps, 3,500 microfilm reels, 4,000 picture books, 2,200 graphic novels, and accessible materials such as large‑print, audiobooks, dyslexia‑friendly titles and Braille.

New facilities at Y Storfa

The new Central Library will feature a glass‑fronted children’s library with thousands of books, a sensory wall, interactive games, and a retro gaming area for older children. Board games for families and adults will also be available.

Visitors will be able to access physical newspapers such as the South Wales Evening Post, bound archives, and hundreds of digital titles via the library’s Press Reader and Borrowbox services. Historic newspapers will also be available online through subscription resources and the National Library of Wales.

Temporary arrangements

Swansea’s 16 community libraries will remain open during the transition, although public PCs will be unavailable on October 22 and 23 due to maintenance. Borrowed items can be returned to branch libraries, and online services will remain available 24/7.

Part of city centre regeneration

Y Storfa is part of Swansea Council’s £1bn regeneration programme and will pave the way for the redevelopment of the Civic Centre site.

Cllr Elliott King, cabinet member for culture, Swansea Council, said: “Y Storfa will give residents a modern, welcoming Central Library at the heart of the city centre. It’s good to see that preparations for the move are well underway.”

Cllr Rob Stewart, leader of Swansea Council, said: “Y Storfa will create a central hub where people can learn, access support and come together. It’ll create footfall for city centre businesses and will further boost Swansea’s regeneration.”

More than a library

Alongside the Central Library, Y Storfa will also house the West Glamorgan Archive Service, Housing Options and Housing Services, the council’s contact centre, lifelong learning, and revenue and benefits teams.

Non‑council tenants will include Careers Wales, Citizens Advice Neath Port Talbot, and Swansea University’s South Wales Miners’ Library.

The project has been supported by the Welsh Government’s Transforming Towns programme.

Related stories from Swansea Bay News

Housing services set to join Y Storfa community hub in city centre
Council confirms housing teams will relocate to the new hub alongside the library.

Fly-through video reveals first look at Swansea’s new Y Storfa community hub
A virtual tour shows how the landmark development will look once complete.

Swansea Central Library preparing for move to Y Storfa hub
Staff begin the process of packing thousands of items ahead of the relocation.

Y Storfa community hub takes shape in Swansea city centre
Construction progresses on the £1bn regeneration project opposite Castle Square.

#BHS #CastleSquare #CentralLibrary #CentralLibraryMove #CentralLibraryRelocation #CivicCentre #CllrElliottKing #CllrRobStewart #Library #Swansea #SwanseaCentralLibrary #SwanseaCouncil #YStorfa

Site investigation works to start on new city office development

Swansea Council say the works are due to start on Monday 17 March and could take over a week to complete.

The council say the work will help pave the way for a new Public Sector Hub scheme that’s aimed at helping boost city centre footfall.

The grassed area outside St David’s Church Hall will be fenced off while the works are ongoing and the council say that every effort will be made to minimise disruption.

The Public Sector Hub will include commercial floor space for shops and restaurants on the ground floor. Swansea Council and a range of other public sector partners will occupy office space above.

Made up of four floors above ground level and one floor below, the council say that hundreds of workers will be based at the Public Sector Hub.

The council and its regeneration partners Urban Splash will develop the proposed new building, with the council retaining ownership.

This would form part of 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.

Cllr Rob Stewart, Swansea Council Leader, said: “We all want our city centre to succeed and to have more shops and other businesses, but we know more footfall is needed to support our existing traders and attract new investment.

“That’s not just the case in Swansea – it’s the same in many other city and town centres across the UK because of challenges like online shopping.

“Schemes like the Public Sector Hub will combine with many others to locate thousands more jobs in the city centre, which will help boost spending there and encourage more shops to open up.

“This scheme will also enable the redevelopment of the Civic Centre site on the seafront. Our regeneration partners Urban Splash are working on detailed proposals for that site, which will be announced as soon as they’re finalised.”

The council say it’s anticipated construction on the Public Sector Hub itself will start on site by the end of 2025.

(Lead image: Swansea Council)

#CllrRobStewart #construction #officeDevelopment #PublicSectorHub #regeneration #StDavidSShoppingCentre #Swansea #SwanseaCouncil #UrbanSplash