#oxfordstreet — Public Fediverse posts

SWANSEA: Everything you need to know about Swansea Pride 2026 — parade route, road closures and what to expect on Saturday

Swansea’s most colourful celebration of the year is almost here. Swansea Pride returns on Saturday 16 May, and as always it’s completely free and open to everyone.

The parade sets off from Wind Street at 11am, heading along Oxford Street and St Helen’s Road before finishing at the Guildhall on Guildhall Road South. The route is marked on the map above — if you’re planning to watch, Oxford Street and St Helen’s Road are your best spots to line up.

Drivers should be aware that there will be rolling road closures along the parade route between 10:30am and 12:30pm. Plan your journey accordingly and allow extra time if you’re heading into the city centre that morning.

Once the parade arrives at the Guildhall, the main stage outside will host live entertainment throughout the afternoon. The full lineup of acts is available at swanseapride.co.uk.

If you want to get out of the sun or explore what the wider Pride community has to offer, head inside the neighbouring Brangwyn Hall where the Swansea Pride Community Zone will be running throughout the day. There you’ll find information stalls from organisations, support services, charities and community groups, as well as some craft traders.

Swansea Pride is organised independently and supported by Swansea Council. It has grown steadily in recent years into one of the city’s most well-attended annual events, drawing people from across Swansea Bay and beyond.

Whether you’re a first-timer or a Pride regular, Saturday promises to be a brilliant day out. The forecast is looking dry with sunny spells — so dig out your best outfit and get involved.

For the full programme of acts and activities, visit swanseapride.co.uk.

219 Oxford Street

1952

Ronald Ward & Partners

#modernism #oxfordstreet #festivaofbritain #architecture #London

219 Oxford Street

1952

Ronald Ward & Partners

#modernism #oxfordstreet #festivaofbritain #architecture #London

219 Oxford Street

1952

Ronald Ward & Partners

#modernism #oxfordstreet #festivaofbritain #architecture #London

219 Oxford Street

1952

Ronald Ward & Partners

#modernism #oxfordstreet #festivaofbritain #architecture #London

219 Oxford Street

1952

Ronald Ward & Partners

#modernism #oxfordstreet #festivaofbritain #architecture #London

SWANSEA: Plans to convert iconic Sandfields restaurant into 12-bedroom HMO complex submitted to council

Plans have been submitted to convert one of Sandfields’ best-known buildings – the late-Victorian Pantygwydr – into two Houses in Multiple Occupation totalling 12 bedrooms.

The pre-application planning notice has been lodged with Swansea Council, proposing the conversion of the historic corner property at the junction of Oxford Street and Richardson Street.

Under the proposals, the ground floor restaurant would become a 5-bedroom HMO, while the upper floors – currently used as four-bedroom owner’s accommodation – would be converted into a separate 7-bedroom HMO.

That would create 12 bedrooms in total across two HMOs at the building.

The building is currently home to the Pantygwydr restaurant, an independent French restaurant that has traded at the site since 2008 – nearly two decades.

It is currently still trading and taking bookings for 2026.

But the freehold of the property has now been listed for sale at £325,000 by Astleys Chartered Surveyors and is currently marked as Sold Subject to Contract.

The planning statement submitted to the council notes that the property has been marketed for several years without any demand for the existing restaurant use.

The Pantygwydr is a substantial late-Victorian building measuring 4,646 sq ft over three floors plus a basement.

Originally operated as the Pantygwydr Hotel, the building features classic Victorian architecture, strong corner frontage and period interior details including wood panelling and decorative cornices.

The basement is currently used as a beer cellar – a reminder of the building’s former life as a hotel and bar.

Under the proposals, no external alterations would be made to the property. A shared bike and refuse store would be created at ground floor level in the existing courtyard.

The application is significant in the context of HMO concentration in the Sandfields area – which has long been a focus of debate over the impact of high HMO numbers on community character and housing supply.

The site sits just outside Swansea Council’s HMO Management Area, where stricter rules apply. Outside that zone, planning policy permits HMO conversions provided they would not result in more than 10% of properties within a 50-metre radius being HMOs.

The applicant’s planning agents have calculated that there are currently three HMOs within 50 metres of the site, out of 59 properties in total. Approval of the application would create five HMOs in that radius – 8.47% of the local property stock, just below the 10% threshold.

The statement also argues that the property would generate significantly less parking demand as HMOs than as a restaurant – with the existing use estimated to require around 16 parking spaces, compared to seven for the proposed HMO use.

The application is currently at the pre-application stage, with reference number 2026/0329/PRE on the council’s planning portal. A formal planning application is yet to be submitted.

If submitted and approved, the conversion would mark the end of nearly 20 years of independent restaurant trade at the site – and the loss of one of Sandfields’ most distinctive hospitality venues.

The Pantygwydr restaurant remains open for bookings as planning discussions continue.

More from our property and rental coverage

‘No kids, no benefits’ rental bans become illegal next month – here’s what tenants and landlords need to know
The major change to Wales’ rental rules taking effect in June 2026.

Belvoir Swansea acquires The Greenrooms managed property portfolio
One of the city’s biggest recent rental sector deals – and what it tells us about the local market.

Swansea ranked one of the best UK cities to own a commercial property
Why investors are looking to Swansea – and what’s driving the interest in conversions.

Four local restaurants face closure as Whitbread axes up to 3,800 jobs across UK estate
The wider hospitality squeeze threatening high street venues across south-west Wales.

Disney Store Oxford Street unveils new front window display

#DisneyStoreUK #Maythe4th #StarWars #FanthaTracks #disneystore #oxfordstreet #maythe4th 

Fantha Trackers are everywhere, and thanks to one very well-timed drive-by we can bring images of the front of the Oxford Street Disney Store in London, which has had a pre-May the 4th makeover in advance of Star Wars Day and the release of...
https://www.fanthatracks.com/news/collecting/disney-store-oxford-street-unveils-new-front-window-display/

Shh… future Crossrail 2 trains beneath Oxford Street expected to be library-quiet

https://web.brid.gy/r/https://www.ianvisits.co.uk/articles/shh-future-crossrail-2-trains-beneath-oxford-street-expected-to-be-library-quiet-87994/

FLATS FUNDING BOOST: Welsh Government to pour millions into city centre flats plan at McDonald’s site and Kingsway block

Swansea is in line for a major regeneration boost after the Welsh Government confirmed funding for two high-profile developments right in the heart of the city.

The cash forms part of a £12.6 million Wales-wide package – but a significant chunk is heading straight to Swansea, targeting long-standing empty upper floors and underused buildings.

At the centre of the plans is 1 Oxford Street – the busy McDonald’s site opposite Castle Square, where empty floors above could finally be brought back to life.

Up to £4.9 million in grant funding alongside a £1 million loan has been earmarked to help transform the building, with proposals already in place to create new flats above the fast-food restaurant.

It’s a site we’ve previously reported on, where plans have been drawn up to tackle one of the city centre’s most prominent unused spaces and turn it into much-needed housing.

Just a short walk away, another key Kingsway building is also in line for change.

Phase two of the Potters Wheel development – covering 85–86 Kingsway at the junction with Dillwyn Street and St Helen’s Road – will receive up to £750,000 in grant funding alongside a £1 million loan.

The project builds on earlier work at the site, where apartments were created above the ground floor pub and a striking green wall installed as part of efforts to bring more nature into the city centre.

Now, housing association Beacon Cymru is set to push ahead with further apartments on the upper floors – continuing the shift towards city centre living.

The Welsh Government says the funding is about more than bricks and mortar.

Cabinet Secretary for Housing and Local Government Jayne Bryant said:

“This funding is not just about infrastructure—it is about creating real, tangible change for the people who live and work in these areas.

“By revitalising town centres, supporting local businesses, and improving public spaces, we are helping to build places where communities can thrive both socially and economically.”

She added:

“We know that strong, vibrant high streets are the backbone of wider economic growth across Wales.”

The announcement was made during a visit to the Biophilic Living project at Mowbray Yard in Swansea City Centre – a scheme already showcasing how greener design and housing can reshape urban spaces.

The latest investment is part of the Welsh Government’s Transforming Towns programme, which has already pumped nearly £500 million into regeneration projects across Wales since 2020.

But for Swansea, the focus is clear – bringing empty buildings back into use and creating more homes in the city centre.

For years, upper floors above shops and businesses have sat vacant, even as demand for housing continues to rise.

Now, with millions committed to two flagship sites, there’s fresh hope that parts of the city centre that have long been overlooked could finally see new life.

And with both developments targeting highly visible locations, the changes won’t go unnoticed.

For Swansea shoppers grabbing a meal on Oxford Street or passing through Kingsway, the skyline above them could soon look very different.

Rochdale Canal for #fotoVorschlag
'Eingerahmt'
#AltText #amateurPhotography #canal #canalside #cityscape #colourPhotography #frame #fujifilm #fujixseries #loveLocks #Manchester #morning #myPhoto #myWork #NoAI #OC #OxfordStreet #photography #reflection #RochdaleCanal #skyscraper #sunnyMorning #towpath #UK #urban #urbanPhotography #waterway #x100vi @photography

Rochdale Canal for #fotoVorschlag
'Eingerahmt'
#AltText #amateurPhotography #canal #canalside #cityscape #colourPhotography #frame #fujifilm #fujixseries #loveLocks #Manchester #morning #myPhoto #myWork #NoAI #OC #OxfordStreet #photography #reflection #RochdaleCanal #skyscraper #sunnyMorning #towpath #UK #urban #urbanPhotography #waterway #x100vi @photography

Rochdale Canal for #fotoVorschlag
'Eingerahmt'
#AltText #amateurPhotography #canal #canalside #cityscape #colourPhotography #frame #fujifilm #fujixseries #loveLocks #Manchester #morning #myPhoto #myWork #NoAI #OC #OxfordStreet #photography #reflection #RochdaleCanal #skyscraper #sunnyMorning #towpath #UK #urban #urbanPhotography #waterway #x100vi @photography

Rochdale Canal for #fotoVorschlag
'Eingerahmt'
#AltText #amateurPhotography #canal #canalside #cityscape #colourPhotography #frame #fujifilm #fujixseries #loveLocks #Manchester #morning #myPhoto #myWork #NoAI #OC #OxfordStreet #photography #reflection #RochdaleCanal #skyscraper #sunnyMorning #towpath #UK #urban #urbanPhotography #waterway #x100vi @photography

Rochdale Canal for #fotoVorschlag
'Eingerahmt'
#AltText #amateurPhotography #canal #canalside #cityscape #colourPhotography #frame #fujifilm #fujixseries #loveLocks #Manchester #morning #myPhoto #myWork #NoAI #OC #OxfordStreet #photography #reflection #RochdaleCanal #skyscraper #sunnyMorning #towpath #UK #urban #urbanPhotography #waterway #x100vi @photography

Ich beantrage, die Friedrichstraße in Oxford Street umzubenennen. Das dürfte der einfachste Weg sein.

#Autofrei #AutofreiUndSpassDabei #Friedrichstraße #OxfordStreet #Berlin #London

Oxford Street pedestrianisation plan gets final official approval
https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/czr0pjegmnlo

Tis definitief ... Steden gaan er in de toekomst heel anders uitzien.

#Londen #Oxfordstreet

The Refuge Building, iconic landmark on Oxford St in Manchester from my #dailyCommute
#altText #architecture #amateurPhotography #classicalColumns #decorativeFliezes #dramaticLighting #elaborateCarving #fujifilm #fujixseries #historicLandmark #imposingVictorian #Manchester #ManchesterPhotography #mastodonPhotography #myPhoto #myWork #nineteenthCentury #noAI #no2AI #oc #OxfordStreet #photography #pixelfed #RefugeBuilding #streetPhotography #uk #victorianGrandeur #x100vi @photography

The Refuge Building, iconic landmark on Oxford St in Manchester from my #dailyCommute
#altText #architecture #amateurPhotography #classicalColumns #decorativeFliezes #dramaticLighting #elaborateCarving #fujifilm #fujixseries #historicLandmark #imposingVictorian #Manchester #ManchesterPhotography #mastodonPhotography #myPhoto #myWork #nineteenthCentury #noAI #no2AI #oc #OxfordStreet #photography #pixelfed #RefugeBuilding #streetPhotography #uk #victorianGrandeur #x100vi @photography

The Refuge Building, iconic landmark on Oxford St in Manchester from my #dailyCommute
#altText #architecture #amateurPhotography #classicalColumns #decorativeFliezes #dramaticLighting #elaborateCarving #fujifilm #fujixseries #historicLandmark #imposingVictorian #Manchester #ManchesterPhotography #mastodonPhotography #myPhoto #myWork #nineteenthCentury #noAI #no2AI #oc #OxfordStreet #photography #pixelfed #RefugeBuilding #streetPhotography #uk #victorianGrandeur #x100vi @photography

The Refuge Building, iconic landmark on Oxford St in Manchester from my #dailyCommute
#altText #architecture #amateurPhotography #classicalColumns #decorativeFliezes #dramaticLighting #elaborateCarving #fujifilm #fujixseries #historicLandmark #imposingVictorian #Manchester #ManchesterPhotography #mastodonPhotography #myPhoto #myWork #nineteenthCentury #noAI #no2AI #oc #OxfordStreet #photography #pixelfed #RefugeBuilding #streetPhotography #uk #victorianGrandeur #x100vi @photography

The Refuge Building, iconic landmark on Oxford St in Manchester from my #dailyCommute
#altText #architecture #amateurPhotography #classicalColumns #decorativeFliezes #dramaticLighting #elaborateCarving #fujifilm #fujixseries #historicLandmark #imposingVictorian #Manchester #ManchesterPhotography #mastodonPhotography #myPhoto #myWork #nineteenthCentury #noAI #no2AI #oc #OxfordStreet #photography #pixelfed #RefugeBuilding #streetPhotography #uk #victorianGrandeur #x100vi @photography

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.”

Finally...

...I just hope they've sorted where the buses go.

https://www.theguardian.com/uk-news/2026/feb/26/plan-to-pedestrianise-london-oxford-street-given-official-go-ahead

#London #OxfordStreet #Urbanism

Politicians demand action as M&S closure sparks row over council “vanity projects”

Liberal Democrats have accused Swansea Council‘s Labour leadership of making “ridiculous” assurances about the impact of multimillion-pound regeneration schemes, pointing to recent claims that the new library would drive footfall to M&S.

Meanwhile, Plaid Cymru’s Sioned Williams MS has written to the Welsh Government demanding support for the 92 staff facing redundancy, describing the closure as a “sickeningly familiar story” of high streets losing historic stores.

The political fallout comes just days after M&S confirmed it will shut its Oxford Street store later this year, ending nearly a century of trading in the city centre.

Welsh Liberal Democrat lead Senedd candidate Cllr Sam Bennett said: “Time and time again the Labour Council Leader has assured us that the massive city centre projects would be the saving of the high street, and this announcement raises big questions.

“At the most recent Council meeting the Leader went as far to say how people were celebrating that the move of the library meant they could now go to M&S, this now sounds ridiculous.”

Cllr Chris Holley, Leader of the Opposition on Swansea Council and Welsh Lib Dem Group Leader, went further, claiming the council had privately assured them M&S would remain once the Yr Storfa development opened.

“We have continually asked and been told that Labour’s vanity projects would be the saving of our high street, and even been told in a meeting M&S would stay once Yr Storfa had opened,” he said.

“This is deeply embarrassing for Labour, and is a tragedy for the city centre workers and shoppers as the Swansea high street takes another blow.”

The Liberal Democrats say they have long called for cheaper and easier parking to encourage city centre use, alongside reforms to business rates and VAT cuts to support high street retailers.

Torsten Bell, Labour MP for Swansea West, struck a more conciliatory tone, expressing “deep disappointment” at the closure and focusing on the impact on staff and customers.

“This decision will be a blow to the many loyal customers who regularly use the store, and for the dedicated employees, some who have worked for M&S over many years,” Mr Bell said.

“They need to be shown the dignity and respect they deserve, while it’s vital they are treated fairly during this difficult time. I have already contacted Senior M&S Managers, with a meeting arranged for next Friday to discuss this further.”

Mr Bell noted the closure comes “at a time when the City Centre has seen huge regeneration at key sites and more top retailers showing confidence in Swansea.”

Sioned Williams MS, Plaid Cymru Member of the Senedd for South Wales West, drew parallels with M&S’s departure from Neath in May 2024, saying the closures represent more than just job losses.

“As with Marks and Spencer’s departure from Neath in May 2024, this is more than losing a job or losing a shop, it’s losing a piece of local history,” she said.

“The Oxford Street store is an important part of many people’s lives, not least for the 92 who work there currently. During its 100 year presence in Swansea, there will have been people who have given their working lives to this store and loyal customers who have helped build this company’s multimillion pound profits.”

Ms Williams said she had written to the Welsh Government asking what support will be offered to staff, and will be writing to M&S to urge them to retain a full-line store in the area.

“I’m glad to see the company not ruling out maintaining a presence in Swansea, but that location should be in the city centre, and not out of town,” she added.

The closure announcement has raised questions about the effectiveness of Swansea Council’s regeneration strategy, which has seen millions of pounds invested in projects including the Copr Bay arena, the new library and museum complex, and the ongoing Yr Storfa development.

M&S has indicated it is considering alternative locations in the Swansea area, but has not confirmed whether any replacement store would be in the city centre or at an out-of-town retail park.

The Oxford Street store, which has traded for nearly 100 years, is expected to close later in 2026, with staff consultations now underway.

Swansea’s new Y Storfa hub draws praise as visitors embrace city centre one‑stop shop

The building, which opened on December 1 in the former BHS store on Oxford Street, has been “busy every day”, according to Swansea Council. The authority says visitors have praised its central location, bright design and the convenience of having multiple services under one roof.

Council leader Rob Stewart said the reaction had exceeded expectations.

Cllr Stewart said:

“We’re delighted that public and staff feedback from the early weeks at Y Storfa has been so positive. Public comments continue to be fantastic; our staff and partners love working here. It’s proving to be a real success.”

Community groups using the space say it has already become a valued meeting point.

Jean Blair, from social group Mentro Allan, said:

“We really enjoy meeting here. Y Storfa has welcoming staff, plenty of comfortable space and is in a central location.”

The South Wales Miners’ Library, now based inside the hub, says the move has made it far easier for people to drop in.

Sian Williams, head of cultural collections at Swansea University, said:

“We’re much more accessible here and are delighted with the number of people who’ve called in and continue to do so. We’re open to everybody and it’s great to welcome a range of visitors.”

The council’s lifelong learning team says demand has surged since relocating.

Service co‑ordinator Judith Porch said:

“With so many services being in one space, Y Storfa is connecting people. It’s great for supporting our learners — you can see how people are enjoying the experience. We’ve seen huge interest in our lifelong learning classes; our IT classes are now completely full.”

Frontline staff say the hub is already improving how residents access help.

Senior revenues and benefits officer Andrea Jones said:

“Y Storfa has made it easy for customers to access many services in one place. I had a customer who came in for a query about benefits who was then able to go straight to housing options. It makes it much more convenient being in the same location.”

The council says the numbers back up the positive feedback. December saw more than 670 new central library members — more than triple the usual monthly average — and children’s library loans have risen. The South Wales Miners’ Library, Citizens Advice, West Glamorgan Archive Service and Careers Wales all report increased footfall.

Cllr Stewart says the hub is already playing a role in boosting the wider city centre.

He said:

“Thousands of people have already enjoyed what Y Storfa has to offer. They like its accessible and compelling mix of essential services. There’s been a significant uplift in visitors compared to previous locations used by the services based there.”

Y Storfa forms part of Swansea Council’s £1bn regeneration programme and was delivered with support from the Welsh Government’s Transforming Towns fund. The council says its location — close to car parks, bus routes and the newly reopened Park Street East car park — is helping draw people back into the city centre.

Related stories

Thousands flock to new city centre hub as Y Storfa officially opens
Opening day crowds welcomed Swansea’s new one‑stop public services hub.

Y Storfa opens in Swansea city centre as council services move from Civic
Major relocation brings key services together under one roof.

Opinion: Torsten Bell MP on Swansea’s Pride in Place funding
How investment could reshape the future of the city centre.

Swansea safety firm proud to support city regeneration
Local business backs major redevelopment projects across Swansea.

Public invited to give views on new Civic Centre plans
Fresh images reveal the next stage of Swansea’s waterfront transformation.

New artist’s impression shows dramatic Civic Centre transformation
Ambitious redevelopment plans unveiled for the seafront site.

Chef, theatre designer and football chief to advise Sadiq Khan on pedestrianising Oxford Street

The other members of the board are lawyer Dr Margaret Casey-Hayford, accountant Emir Feisal, Caroline Rush, chief executive…
#London #UnitedKingdom #UK #GB #England #Headlines #News #Europe #EU #AsmaKhan #Britain #EsDevlin #GreatBritain #london #OxfordStreet #Westminster
https://www.europesays.com/uk/679059/

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

From BHS to Gothic revival: Oxford Street tower lined up for cathedral-inspired rebuild

https://web.brid.gy/r/https://www.ianvisits.co.uk/articles/from-bhs-to-gothic-revival-oxford-street-tower-lined-up-for-cathedral-inspired-rebuild-85923/

London’s Christmas spirit.

#london #christmas #oxfordstreet #uk #travel

Y Storfa opens in Swansea city centre as council services move from Civic

The facility is part of the authority’s £1bn regeneration programme and brings together a range of services under one roof, including the city’s Central Library, Housing Options, Housing Support, and the West Glamorgan Archive Service. Careers Wales, Citizens Advice Swansea Neath Port Talbot, and Swansea University’s South Wales Miners’ Library also have bases there.

Council leader Rob Stewart described Y Storfa as “a great city centre space for the people of Swansea to access services they use day in day out,” adding that it would “make the city centre an even better place to visit.”

The project has been funded in part by the Welsh Government’s Transforming Towns programme, with construction led by Kier. Ian Rees, regional director for Kier Construction Western & Wales, said the company was “incredibly proud to see Y Storfa open its doors to the public, providing a vital community space right at the heart of the city centre.”

Wendy Williams of Careers Wales said the move would make it easier for residents to access free careers advice in a central location, while Caroline Newman of Citizens Advice Swansea Neath Port Talbot said the relocation would “improve accessibility and create opportunities for collaboration.”

Services available at Y Storfa

• 📚 Swansea Central Library
• 🏠 Housing Options and Housing Support services
• 📜 West Glamorgan Archive Service
• 🎓 Swansea University’s South Wales Miners’ Library
• 💼 Careers Wales advice centre
• ⚖️ Citizens Advice Swansea Neath Port Talbot
• Other council services relocated from the Civic Centre

Note: Registration offices and bereavement services remain at the Civic Centre until further notice.

The opening means there is now no public access via the front doors of Swansea Civic Centre. Council services previously based there have transferred to Y Storfa, although registration offices and bereavement services will continue to operate from the Civic until further notice.

The council says redevelopment plans for the Civic Centre are still being worked on and will be announced once finalised.

#archives #bhs #careersWales #centralLibrary #citizensAdvice #civicCentre #featured #housingOptions #housingSupport #library #oxfordStreet #princessWay #swansea #swanseaCouncil #swanseaUniversityMinersLibrary #westGlamorganArchiveService2 #yStorfa

Whoever owns the trademark must surely give a fuck all this is going on under the brand?
Not only on Oxford Street but also reported in Oxford

https://www.londoncentric.media/p/harry-potter-and-the-unpaid-tax-bill

#HMRC #TaxEvasion #OxfordStreet #London #HarryPotter #Oxford

Bit of a side quest, but are those Harry Potter shops the new front for money laundering/tax evasion on Oxford Street? All the 'American Sweet Shop' places have all been shut down after all...

Funny how Bobby Galbraith doesn't mind her trademarks being used for nefarious purposes, is her attention elsewhere?

#HarryPotter #Budget25 #London #JKRowling #MoneyLaundering #TaxEvasion #OxfordStreet #HMRC

Opening date confirmed for Swansea’s new Y Storfa hub

According to Swansea Council, the transformation of the former BHS building at the junction of Oxford Street and Princess Way is a key part of its £1bn regeneration programme. The authority says the project is designed to revitalise the city centre and bring services together under one roof.

“Firm opening date before Christmas”

Council Leader Rob Stewart said the opening was a major milestone:

“It’s fantastic that we now have a firm opening date for Y Storfa – and that it’ll be before Christmas. It’ll be a great new facility that’ll help make the city centre an even better place to visit. The great public interest in Y Storfa will mean added footfall for nearby traders as the festive season develops. It’ll be a place where people can come together – to learn, access important services, or take part in community life in a modern and welcoming space.”

Services under one roof

Swansea Council says that when Y Storfa opens, visitors will be able to access the city’s Central Library, which the authority notes will include dedicated areas for children and families. The council also states that the building will house its Housing Options and Housing Support teams, alongside the West Glamorgan Archive Service.

According to the council, Y Storfa will not just feature council services. Careers Wales and Citizens Advice Swansea Neath Port Talbot have confirmed they will have permanent bases in the hub, while Swansea University has said its South Wales Miners’ Library is among the organisations preparing to move in over the coming weeks. The council describes these combined services as making Y Storfa a one‑stop destination for learning, advice, and community support.

Wider regeneration

Swansea Council says the opening of Y Storfa is part of a much broader transformation of the city centre. The authority points to work underway next door at Castle Square, which it describes as being redeveloped into a greener, more welcoming public space. Council leaders also highlight other recent projects they have driven, including the creation of the Swansea Building Society Arena, the redesign of The Kingsway and Wind Street, new office space at 71/72 Kingsway, and the restoration of the historic Palace Theatre.

According to the council, private developers are also investing heavily in the area. Projects cited include the Biophilic Living Building on Oxford Street, the Princess Quarter development, and the revival of the Albert Hall, which the authority says are adding to the momentum of regeneration in the city centre.

Backed by Welsh Government

Funding for Y Storfa has come from the Welsh Government’s Transforming Towns programme, with construction led by The Kier Group.

The council says the hub will provide a modern, welcoming environment for residents and visitors, while boosting footfall for city centre traders in the run‑up to Christmas and beyond.

#bhs #castleSquareRedevelopment #centralLibrary #centralLibraryMove #centralLibraryRelocation #centralLibrarySwansea #kierGroup #oxfordStreet #princessWay #swansea #swanseaCentralLibrary #swanseaCouncil #swanseaRegeneration #yStorfa #yStorfaSwansea

Another random view of the city while walking.

Oxford Street getting ready for the winter season, despite the sunshine.

#Photography #StreetPhotography #london #OxfordStreet

Daisy Lowe leads celebs at #Renault 4 E-Tech’s #UK launch in #London

https://lucire.com/insider/20251021/daisy-lowe-leads-celebs-at-renault-4-e-techs-uk-launch-in-london/ #ElectricCar #EV #DaisyLowe #celebrity #launch #living #lifestyle #car #voiture #England #OxfordStreet #PopUpShop

Home House members’ club: This the best place in London to play lady of the manor

Home House has never really been a hotel. A member’s club that grants access to non-members staying overnight,…
#London #UnitedKingdom #UK #GB #England #Headlines #News #Europe #EU #ArtDeco #Britain #GreatBritain #london #Londoners #Marylebone #OxfordStreet
https://www.europesays.com/uk/494385/

https://www.europesays.com/uk/494385/ Home House members’ club: This the best place in London to play lady of the manor #ArtDeco #Britain #England #GreatBritain #london #Londoners #Marylebone #OxfordStreet #UK #UnitedKingdom

This phone makes my 16 Pro feel old! Not too many compromises, but the speakers are not the best. #iPhone #iPhoneAir #oxfordstreet

https://www.cyclingeu.com/701346/oxford-street-is-about-to-change-forever/ Oxford Street is about to change forever?! #Bicycling #BicyclingUK #BicyclingUnitedKingdom #Biking #BikingUK #BikingUnitedKingdom #CityOfLondon #CityTransformation #Cycling #CyclingOxford #CyclingUk #CyclingUnitedKingdom #london #OxfordStreet #pedenstrianisation #PedestrianCities #PublicRealm #SustainableCities #UK #UnitedKingdom #UrbanDesign

Catena marks 120 years with Malbec celebration in London https://www.diningandcooking.com/2197499/catena-marks-120-years-with-malbec-celebration-in-london/ #AdriannaCatena #Argentina #ArgentineWine #ArgentinianWine #JohnLewis #LauraCatena #NicolásCatenaZapata #OxfordCircus #OxfordStreet #Wine #WinesFromArgentina #WinesOfArgentina

#OxfordStreet will be pedestrianised as soon as possible, says #London mayor
#SadiqKhan says regeneration plans for central London shopping street have received ‘overwhelming support’

https://www.theguardian.com/business/2025/jun/17/oxford-street-pedestrianised-soon-as-possible-mayor-sadiq-khan #activeTravel #sustainability #cities #environment #bancars #banSUVs

A large section of London's Oxford Street is to be pedestrianised as part of a rejuvenation plan. That's good news for shoppers who don't like the constant background smell of diesel.

https://www.theguardian.com/business/2025/jun/17/oxford-street-pedestrianised-soon-as-possible-mayor-sadiq-khan

#UK #OxfordStreet #Pedestrians

Disney Store Oxford Street: Look inside D350

#D350 #DisneyStore #StarWars #FanthaTracks #disneystore #D350 #oxfordstreet 

Check out D350, the top floor at Disney Store Oxford Street in London.

Read the whole story at the below link:

https://fantha.news/bxoet

UK #Ikea boss backs calls to pedestrianise #OxfordStreet as flagship store opens
New outlet due to welcome shoppers on Thursday regarded as key to helping revive famous London thoroughfare

https://www.theguardian.com/business/2025/apr/30/ikea-boss-backs-calls-to-pedestrianise-oxford-street-as-flagship-store-opens-london

exciting to have an ikea store that's not out in the sticks / only accessible by car. #london

Disney Store London: New May the 4th front of store unveiled

#DisneyStore #DisneyStoreUK #Maythe4th #StarWars #FanthaTracks #OxfordStreet #DisneyStore #Maythe4th 

Check out the front of the flagship Oxford Street Disney Store.

Read the whole story at the below link:

https://fantha.news/2n1r3

#兩邊走走 EP123｜焦點｜721非白衣人案，七被告全罪成｜衛倩婷首談訪港：一次坦誠接觸｜今年聖誕氣氛特別熱，英消費額料創新高

🇬🇧 英國時間 12月13日星期五晚上
🇭🇰 香港時間 12月14日星期六早上
同步首播

▌林卓廷 721暴動罪成
法官：3帖文產生「磁石效應」

▌衛倩婷（Catherine West）專訪：
訪港談及黎智英案
形容交流穩健坦誠

▌英加稅預算無阻節日氣氛
聖誕消費額料逾£200億

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#元朗721 #林卓廷 #磁石效應 #衛倩婷 #外交部 #黎智英 #聖誕節 #消費額 #RegentStreet #...
#Court #Politics #Holiday #RegentStreet #OxfordStreet
https://www.instagram.com/p/DDhI1oqh42l/

I haven't been in #London for a good few weeks as have been away, but saw tonight that all the #Christmas lights have been put up on #OxfordStreet and #RegentStreet already.

There's something really nice about how London looks getting towards Christmastime. 🎄

Shot with #SonyXperia PRO-I with the #Sirui 1.33x #AnamorphicLens adapter.

#LifeByStills #TravelByStills #Photography #TravelPhotography #Anamorphic #TravelBlogger #TravelWriter #Travel

The #police will be dispersing or arresting anyone who does not look like an economically active #consumer. The UK is turning #AntiSocialBehaviour into an exclusionary, hostile new normal.

"A #DispersalOrder has been put in place [on #OxfordStreet] from 11am on Tuesday to 10am on Thursday, giving police officers the power to #exclude people from the area for 48 hours. Anyone who does not #comply can be #arrested."

https://www.theguardian.com/uk-news/2023/aug/08/khan-tells-people-to-shun-nonsense-tiktok-craze-on-oxford-street

Allegra Spender (Member for Wentworth) is conducting a Politics in the Pub evening at the Imperial Hotel, Oxford Street Paddington on Tuesday 27 June (7.30 to 9pm).

The Oxford Street East cycleway will likely come up as a topic. If you would like to raise and support the aims of Better Streets RSVP below!

https://www.allegraspender.com.au/politicsinthepub_20230627

Her previous interview supportive of e-bikes: https://vimeo.com/778279315

#oxfordst #auspol #allegra #wentworth #sydney #oxfordstreet #cycleways #urbanism #planning