#sandfields — Public Fediverse posts

SWANSEA: Rain gardens spreading through Sandfields streets as second phase of flood-busting scheme takes root

Swansea’s rain garden programme is expanding, with new planting and pedestrian improvements now under way at Phillips Parade and Rodney Street in the Sandfields and St Helen’s area — adding to work already completed outside St Helen’s Primary School.

The scheme was first installed outside the school last year, where trees and shrubs were planted to soak up surface water after heavy rain, alongside improved paving and dropped kerbs to help pupils, parents and residents get around on foot, by bike or by scooter. The latest phase extends those improvements to new locations across the neighbourhood, with a further rain garden also installed at the end of Burrows Road, adjacent to Oystermouth Road.

Rain gardens work by capturing water runoff from roads and pavements before it can pool or cause flooding. The plants, shrubs and specially designed soil absorb the water, filtering out pollutants before they can reach local waterways — protecting the ecosystems that depend on them.

They also provide year-round food and shelter for pollinators including bees and butterflies, and bring seasonal colour to streets that might otherwise feel hard and grey. The combination of flood mitigation, biodiversity benefit and improved aesthetics in a single scheme has made rain gardens an increasingly popular tool for councils looking to improve urban environments on limited budgets.

The improvements form part of Swansea Council’s bid to introduce better walking and cycling infrastructure across the city, following a successful grant application to the Welsh Government’s Active Travel programme. Earlier reporting revealed that around £160,000 was invested in the first phase of the Sandfields scheme, with additional funding drawn from the Welsh Government’s Local Places for Nature fund and Natural Resources Wales.

The latest works were developed with community regeneration experts Urban Foundry, who worked with residents and local businesses to shape the plans. Consultation with the community was carried out before work began, with the scheme designed to reflect local needs and priorities.

Urban Foundry — who are also behind the recently opened Swansea Pottery Collective studio on Alexandra Road — have become a familiar presence in projects that look to transform underused or underperforming spaces across Swansea city centre and surrounding areas.

Stuart Davies, Head of Service for Transport and Highways at Swansea Council, said the measures were delivering a range of benefits for local communities. “These innovative measures are providing local communities with a range of benefits where links between streets for walkers and cyclists are improved,” he said.

“The introduction of rain gardens also provides a green and sustainable solution for spots within communities where standing water can occur during heavy rainfall,” he added.

The Sandfields programme is one of several active travel and green infrastructure projects the council has been delivering across the city. Previous coverage has highlighted similar improvements elsewhere in Swansea, as the council works towards its wider vision of developing greener spaces, cleaner air and lower carbon emissions in communities across the city.

The rain garden and active travel work in Sandfields follows a pattern that has been replicated across south-west Wales — with Carmarthenshire councils also receiving funding in the same grant rounds to deliver drainage and active travel improvements in their communities.

Work is ongoing at Phillips Parade, Rodney Street and Burrows Road. Residents can expect the planting to develop through the coming months as the gardens establish — with the full colour and wildlife benefits expected to be most visible by late summer and into autumn.

Related stories from Swansea Bay News

Rain gardens installed to tackle flooding in Swansea’s Sandfields
Our coverage of the first phase of rain garden installations outside St Helen’s Primary School.

Rain gardens and car park revamps: £100k drainage grants to tackle flooding in Swansea and Carmarthenshire
The grant funding behind the Sandfields scheme and similar projects across south-west Wales.

City streets’ new green feature aims to help combat climate challenge
Earlier coverage of Swansea’s green infrastructure ambitions.

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.

PORT TALBOT: Schools keeping pupils indoors as fire crews remain on scene at Water Street blaze – road closures in place

Emergency services remain on scene at a major fire at a business premises on Water Street in Port Talbot, with local schools keeping pupils and staff indoors as a precaution while smoke continues to drift across the town.

Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service and Public Health Wales are advising local residents and businesses to keep windows and doors closed while smoke is present, opening them again once conditions improve. Anyone who feels unwell is advised to seek appropriate medical advice.

Schools in the area have been told to remain open but to keep pupils and staff inside as a precautionary measure while smoke remains present. Parents are advised to follow guidance from their children’s schools directly.

Road closures remain in place around the site. The A4242 Afan Way dual carriageway is closed between the McDonald’s roundabout and Talbot Block roundabout. Afan Way and Water Street are also closed for westbound traffic at the McDonald’s entrance, although access is being maintained as necessary into Green Park Street.

Neath Port Talbot Council said its JCB operatives had been on site assisting fire crews in responding to the incident. Rest centre facilities have been placed on standby, and the council said transport arrangements would be put in place for any residents requiring them should a rest centre need to be opened.

The fire broke out at the Water Street commercial site, where around 200 tonnes of commercial waste had been stored. At its height the incident required the attendance of eight fire stations from both Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service and South Wales Fire and Rescue Service, with crews working to contain the blaze and prevent it spreading to neighbouring properties.

Dramatic aerial images published earlier today showed the scale of the fire from inside the site, with smoke still rising from the collapsed industrial building beside the canal that runs through the area.

Drone footage released by the council shows the extent of the destruction at the Water Street site, with the surrounding residential streets and the wider Port Talbot skyline visible beyond the smoke plume.

Residents in the immediate vicinity of Water Street and the wider Afan Way area are asked to continue monitoring the situation and to follow the latest guidance from emergency services and the council.

Neath Port Talbot Council said it would keep residents informed as the situation develops, and is coordinating with fire and police services on traffic management and welfare arrangements for anyone affected by the incident.

Anyone with concerns about the smoke or their health should contact NHS 111 for advice, or call 999 in an emergency.

Our Port Talbot fire coverage

PORT TALBOT: Huge industrial fire sends black smoke billowing over town as eight fire stations scramble to Dock Road
Our original report on the Water Street fire as it broke out.

PORT TALBOT: Fire crews still battling Dock Road blaze as dramatic new images emerge from inside the site
Our second report with aerial images from inside the fire site.

PORT TALBOT: Fire crews still battling Dock Road blaze this morning as dramatic new images emerge from inside the site

Fire crews from eight stations have spent the night battling a major commercial waste blaze at Dock Road in Port Talbot, with Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service confirming this morning that crews remain on scene and the fire is still ongoing.

The blaze, which broke out at 3.36pm on Wednesday at an industrial site on Dock Road, has now been burning for more than 15 hours. A fresh statement issued this morning confirmed that firefighters made steady progress overnight but are continuing to actively fight the fire and monitor hotspots across the site.

Crews from Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service from Port Talbot, Neath, Morriston, Ammanford, Tumble, Carmarthen, Pontarddulais and Glynneath continue to work alongside South Wales Fire and Rescue Service colleagues as part of a coordinated multi-agency response.

A spokesperson said: “Firefighters have been making steady progress overnight and remain in attendance this morning, with crews actively firefighting and monitoring hotspots. Work is continuing with partner agencies as part of a coordinated multi-agency response.”

New images taken inside the Dock Road site show the full scale of the operation — with high-pressure jets trained on a mountain of smouldering commercial waste, fire hoses snaking across flooded and blackened ground, and firefighters in breathing apparatus working among the burned-out debris as dawn broke over Port Talbot.

The fire involves approximately 200 tonnes of commercial waste. The scale of the blaze was visible for miles, with thick black smoke billowing across the town throughout Wednesday afternoon and evening before crews began to bring it under control overnight.

Road closures remain in place on and around Dock Road to allow emergency services continued access to the site. Residents across the area are being asked to continue keeping windows and doors closed if smoke is present.

The spokesperson added that people should continue to avoid the area while the incident is ongoing, and to call 999 only if life or property is in immediate danger — to help control room operators manage emergency resources effectively.

Cllr Sean Pursey, who represents the Sandfields East ward, this morning said the river footpath near the site also remains closed, with road closures in place near ATS. He urged residents to continue taking precautions outdoors until further guidance on air quality is issued.

The operation is one of the largest seen in the Port Talbot area in recent years, with eight fire stations drawn into the response and a second fire service called in to assist. The A4241 Dock Road remains closed in both directions from the Industrial Park turn-off to North Bank Road.

No injuries have been reported in connection with the incident. The cause of the fire has not yet been confirmed and investigations are expected to take place once the blaze has been fully extinguished.

Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service has said further updates will be issued when available. Swansea Bay News will continue to follow the story as it develops.

Related stories from Swansea Bay News

PORT TALBOT: Huge industrial fire sends black smoke billowing over town as eight fire stations scramble to Dock Road
Our original report from Wednesday afternoon as the blaze broke out and emergency services scrambled to the scene.

GOWERTON: Road remains closed and building assessed for collapse risk after Easter Monday fire
The aftermath of a serious fire that left a Gowerton street shut for days.

GOWERTON: Dramatic fire tears through LMS Club on Sterry Road
Firefighters tackle a major blaze at the Gowerton social club.

PORT TALBOT: Huge industrial fire sends black smoke billowing over town as eight fire stations scramble to Dock Road

A massive fire involving around 200 tonnes of commercial waste at an industrial site on Dock Road sent thick black smoke billowing across Port Talbot on Wednesday afternoon, with eight fire stations scrambling crews to the scene.

Crews from eight fire stations were called to the Port Talbot industrial site at 3.36pm on Wednesday after a blaze took hold involving around 200 tonnes of commercial waste. The fire was so significant that South Wales Fire and Rescue Service were called in to support their Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service colleagues, with the operation running deep into the night.

Thick black smoke billowed high above the town’s rooftops and could be seen from miles around, with crowds gathering near the scene to watch the dramatic response unfold. Drone footage shared on social media captured the full scale of the incident, with multiple fire engines and aerial ladder platforms deployed across the industrial site on the bank of the River Afan.

Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service issued its first statement at 4.34pm, confirming crews were responding and urging residents to avoid the area. A more detailed update followed at 5.16pm confirming the scale of the blaze.

A spokesperson said: “Our crews from Port Talbot, Neath, Morriston, Ammanford, Tumble, Carmarthen, Pontarddulais and Glynneath Fire Stations have responded to an incident at Dock Road in Port Talbot. This incident is currently ongoing. With support by crews from South Wales Fire and Rescue Service, crews are dealing with a fire involving approximately 200 tonnes of commercial waste.”

The spokesperson added that the area should be avoided to allow emergency services access, and that residents should keep windows and doors closed if there was thick smoke nearby. People were also asked not to call 999 unless lives or property were in immediate danger, so that control room operators could manage the high volume of emergency calls.

South Wales Police also moved quickly to close a number of roads in the area. Their statement, issued at 4.17pm, confirmed closures at the roundabout on Afan Way and Harbour Way, the roundabout on Harbour Way towards Tata Steel, and Water Street between Blanco’s Hotel and McDonald’s.

The A4241 — Dock Road itself — remained closed in both directions late into the evening, from the Industrial Park turn-off all the way to North Bank Road, as crews continued to battle the blaze.

Images from the scene showed fire engines and ladder platforms surrounded by dense smoke as firefighters trained jets onto the burning waste. Aerial photos showed a large industrial yard with materials stacked across the site, with the smoke plume stretching well beyond the immediate area and across the town towards the hills.

This morning, Cllr Sean Pursey, who represents the Sandfields East ward, said emergency services were still in attendance and residents should continue to take precautions.

He posted on Facebook: “Morning all, we’re currently awaiting an update from agency partners on the fire situation. The river footpath remains closed and there are some road closures in the area near ATS while the fire service is in attendance.”

Cllr Pursey added that he would advise people to continue keeping windows and doors closed and to take precautions outdoors until further guidance on air quality was issued.

Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service has been approached for comment on whether the fire has been extinguished and whether any investigation into the cause is underway.

Related stories from Swansea Bay News

GOWERTON: Dramatic fire tears through LMS Club on Sterry Road
Firefighters tackle a major blaze at the Gowerton social club.

GOWERTON: Road remains closed and building assessed for collapse risk after Easter Monday fire
The aftermath of a serious fire that left a Gowerton street shut for days.

https://www.europesays.com/uk/833266/ The Summit winner’s warning for double-crossing contestant who plotted behind her back #Entertainment #ITV #NeathPortTalbot #PortTalbot #Sandfields(PortTalbot) #TV #UK #UnitedKingdom

Major revamp planned for Sandfields and Aberavon as council unveils huge active travel upgrade

The £multi‑million scheme covers a 4.7km stretch linking the seafront with Afan Way, creating a continuous loop designed to make everyday journeys safer and easier without needing a car. Council officers say the project will tie directly into the wider Aberavon Seafront Masterplan, bringing long‑term improvements to some of the area’s busiest routes.

The plans include upgraded footways, new cycle lanes, safer crossings, resurfaced roads, better bus facilities and a series of public‑realm makeovers at key community hotspots. A consultation has now opened, with residents given until 11th March to give feedback.

The council says the work is vital in a community where official data shows fewer than half of households own a car, making safe walking and cycling routes essential for school runs, shopping trips and access to the beach.

Years in the making

The project has been in development since 2022, when a study identified ten Sandfields routes in need of upgrades. Early engagement followed in 2024, with residents helping shape the first designs for three priority corridors: Princess Margaret Way, Victoria Road and the Seaway Parade–Handel Avenue–Purcell Avenue loop.

By 2025, the scheme had expanded to include placemaking improvements around Memo Beach Café, the skate park, Tywyn Primary School and Purcell Avenue, with drop‑in sessions held last autumn to gather ideas. Detailed designs are now nearing completion, and the council is preparing a funding bid through the Regional Transport Fund to begin construction in 2026–27.

What’s planned on the ground

If approved, the scheme will deliver new and widened footways, resurfaced pavements and missing links such as the broken section near the Naval Club. Dedicated cycle lanes are proposed for Princess Margaret Way, with on‑road routes added to nearby residential streets to create a safer network.

Eight new Toucan crossings and five new Parallel crossings are planned for some of the area’s busiest junctions, alongside more than 50 upgraded uncontrolled crossings with dropped kerbs and tactile paving. Bus users would see new shelters and a relocated stop opposite Remo’s to support revised routes along the seafront.

Public spaces are also set for a facelift, with new seating, planting, surfacing and landscaping around Memo Beach, the skate park and Tywyn Primary School. Additional greenery and pocket planting would be added throughout the area to soften the streetscape.

Parking changes include new loading bays near Francos and Memo Café, extra disabled bays and a small net increase in overall parking along the seafront. Measures to stop pavement parking — including bollards, planting and double yellow lines — are also proposed.

Princess Margaret Way would be fully resurfaced as part of the works.

“A good balance of improvements for everyone”

Cllr Wyndham Griffiths, Cabinet Member for Strategic Planning, Transport and Connectivity, said the plans strike the right balance for a community with low car ownership but high demand for safer routes.

“I strongly encourage anyone who lives in or visits these areas to have their say on the proposals which would offer improved safety and better‑connected routes, whilst also lifting the overall appearance,” he said.

How to take part

The consultation runs until 11th March 2026, with residents able to complete the survey at www.npt.gov.uk/activetravel.

Two face‑to‑face drop‑in events will be held at Aberavon Leisure Centre on Monday 2nd March (3pm–7pm) and Saturday 7th March (10am–1pm), where the project team will be available to answer questions.

Paper copies of the plans and survey are available at Sandfields, Port Talbot and Neath libraries.

Related stories from Swansea Bay News

Major overhaul planned for Llanelli’s Halfway lights
Another major transport scheme proposing safer crossings, new layouts and better routes for all road users.

Swansea’s future mapped out in new city centre plan
A look at the wider regeneration vision shaping movement, public spaces and development across the city.

Upper Afan Valley lined up for £20m regeneration boost
Long‑term investment plans aimed at transforming communities and improving connectivity across the valley.

Bulldozers move in as Aberavon flats set for dramatic revamp
Another key project reshaping the seafront, linked to wider regeneration and public‑realm improvements.

Police warn landlords after cannabis factory found in Swansea rental home

Officers were called to the address this week and found the remnants of a large-scale growing operation hidden inside the home. The property had been rented out for six months, during which time the landlord made no visits and held no written tenancy agreement.

Police say the landlord was first approached by a man he did not know, who offered cash and a down‑payment to secure the property. All further contact was made by text message. No identification, references or paperwork were taken before the keys were handed over.

The landlord told officers he had concerns during the tenancy but did not report them to local PCSOs or police before discovering the damage.

PC Scott Pearson, South Wales Police, said illegal activity had gone unnoticed because basic checks were not carried out.

“Due to not properly checking and vetting the new tenants along with missed opportunities to follow up via regular visits, it is clear that the illegal activity was not known about or recognised,” he said.

He warned that the consequences were now severe.

“As the above was not acted upon, the landlord now faces significant costs running into the tens of thousands of pounds for remedial work and unpaid utility bills.”

Pearson said rental legislation exists to protect both landlords and tenants, and failing to follow it can leave property owners exposed to serious financial loss.

He urged anyone with concerns about suspicious activity in a rented home to contact police or Crimestoppers.

“If you have any concerns of illegal activity in one of your properties or at a property near you, please share these concerns with the police or Crimestoppers,” he said.

Related stories from Swansea Bay News

Swansea drug line boss jailed after police find SIM cards hidden in waistband
Officers uncovered a county lines operation after finding multiple SIM cards concealed during a stop.

Kidwelly cannabis farm uncovered after police find photos on man’s phone
A routine phone search led officers to a fully equipped cannabis grow inside a rural property.

Sandfields pair jailed for supplying Class A drugs
Two dealers were jailed after police linked them to drug supply across the Sandfields area.

Trouble tenants kicked out as council shuts homes and clamps down on chaos across Carmarthenshire
Councils took action to close problem properties linked to crime, disorder and anti‑social behaviour.

Port Talbot driver jailed after 70mph chase through 20mph zone

Ryan Simon, 33, took a car from an address in Port Talbot on November 21 last year and fitted it with stolen number plates. He also stole items inside the vehicle, including a dash‑cam, a driving licence and cash.

When police approached him the following day, Simon drove off — narrowly avoiding dragging an officer along with the car.

A pursuit began, with Simon hitting speeds of 60mph to 70mph in a 20mph zone, ignoring traffic‑calming measures, running a red light and narrowly avoiding a collision before smashing into an unmarked police car.

He then mounted the kerb, showing what the court heard was a “disregard” for the safety of pedestrians.

At Cardiff Crown Court, Judge Paul Hobson told him: “You could have killed somebody, it’s sheer luck you didn’t do so. The fact you caused only major damage to the vehicle was sheer good fortune.”

Simon, of Kern Close, Sandfields, later admitted aggravated vehicle taking, theft from a motor vehicle, theft, and driving while disqualified.

The court heard he already had a string of previous convictions, including aggravated vehicle taking, driving while disqualified, taking vehicles without consent, theft, robbery and burglary.

In mitigation, the court was told Simon had struggled with cocaine use but had been engaging with drug and alcohol programmes while on remand and had been working in the prison kitchen.

He was jailed for 18 months and banned from driving for four years and nine months.

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Four arrested after suspected racially aggravated attack in Swansea city centre
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Swansea man jailed for six years after stalking ex and attacking man on Wind Street
A violent offender is jailed after a stalking campaign and a serious assault in Swansea’s nightlife district.

Waunarlwydd man jailed for ten years for online child sex offences
A major investigation leads to a decade‑long sentence for serious online offending.

Bridgend trio jailed after attacking man with metal pole, baseball bat and walking stick
Three men are sentenced after a brutal, weapon‑led attack that left a victim seriously injured.

Rain gardens and car park revamps: £100k drainage grants to tackle flooding in Swansea and Carmarthenshire

Swansea streets in line for rain gardens

Swansea Council has scooped grants to draw up plans for rain gardens and other drainage features around Beach Street, St Helen’s Road and the Brynymor Street junction. The aim is to cut down on surface water flooding in busy city streets and stop polluted run‑off pouring into drains and streams.

Carmarthenshire car parks targeted

Carmarthenshire County Council will use its share of the cash to design drainage improvements at Llandovery Castle car park and Newcastle Emlyn car park. Both sites have long struggled with flooding, and the new schemes are intended to stop dirty water flowing into the Tywi and Teifi rivers — both protected Special Areas of Conservation.

Schools join the fight against flooding

The charity Trees for Cities has also been awarded funding to design drainage projects at three schools — St Cadocs, St Illtyds and Glyncoed — where rain gardens and other SuDS features could help keep playgrounds and classrooms dry while boosting biodiversity.

Sandfields shows what’s possible

The new funding comes hot on the heels of a rain garden already installed in Swansea’s Sandfields area, where planters and green drainage features have been used to soak up excess water and reduce flooding risk for residents. The Sandfields scheme has been hailed as a practical example of how sustainable drainage can transform urban streets — turning problem flood zones into greener, more resilient spaces.

Backed by Welsh Government

The grants, worth between £15,000 and £30,000 each, come from the Welsh Government’s Nature and Climate Emergency Capital Programme, which also supports peatland restoration, mine clean‑ups, fisheries and national forests.

“Greener, more resilient communities”

Helen Haider, Lead Specialist Advisor at Natural Resources Wales, said:

“These grants will help the five projects move another step towards creating greener, more resilient communities. Sustainable urban drainage solutions can help us tackle both climate and nature emergencies — reducing surface water flooding, pollution and enhancing biodiversity.”

Related stories from Swansea Bay News

Rain gardens installed to tackle flooding in Swansea’s Sandfields
New green infrastructure helps soak up surface water and reduce flood risk for residents and schools.

Swansea Council launches green infrastructure strategy
New plan outlines how the city will use nature‑based solutions to tackle flooding, heat and biodiversity loss.

“I was just existing, not living” — Port Talbot’s Ayla beats the odds to graduate as mental health nurse

The Sandfields student collected her BSc Nursing (Mental Health) from Swansea University this week, a moment she once thought impossible.

“I was experiencing paranoia and mania — I was really unwell, and it affected my schooling very badly. I had to be home schooled, and I left education without any kind of qualification,” Ayla recalled.

By 18 she felt isolated and hopeless.

“I had no friends and no social life. I was just existing, not living. The drugs slurred my speech, and I was sleeping during the day. I knew I wanted to take control of my life, I had to break free from the fear.”

Determined to become a nurse, she enrolled at Afan College to gain access qualifications. With support from lecturers and family, she began to rebuild her confidence.

A turning point came when she met campaigner Jonny Benjamin, founder of the charity Beyond. He invited her onto a youth board and asked her to contribute to The Book of Hope: 101 Voices on Overcoming Adversity — alongside Joe Wicks, Dame Kelly Holmes and Zoe Sugg.

“That gave me a huge confidence boost and led to me applying to Swansea to study nursing,” Ayla said.

At Swansea University she was paired with specialist mentor Pamela Johnson through the wellbeing service.

“I couldn’t have done any of this without her,” Ayla said. “I would never have been able to cope. I am so grateful.”

Pamela praised her resilience:

“Ayla has worked incredibly hard throughout her course to manage her mental health while consistently working to the best of her ability.”

Now qualified, Ayla wants to use her experience to change the way schools support young people.

“I hope to raise awareness and make changes within schools to help children and young people struggling with mental ill health in a supportive and inclusive way, all the while sharing hope that we can still achieve our dreams.”

Related stories from Swansea Bay News

Swansea University celebrates record number of nursing graduates
Hundreds of new nurses qualify as demand for healthcare professionals continues to rise.

Mental health support boosted in Welsh schools
New funding aims to improve wellbeing services for children and young people.

More Swansea University stories →
Browse the latest news and features from the university.

#AfanCollege #DameKellyHolmes #JoeWicks #mania #mentalHealth #MentalHealthNurse #nursing #paranoia #PortTalbot #Sandfields #SchoolOfHealthAndSocialCare #SwanseaUniversity #ZoeSugg

Petition launched as locals boycott The Brunswick Arms over far‑right event

The petition, started by long‑time customer Jenny Hall, calls on the pub to commit publicly to refusing future bookings from groups linked to far‑right politics. Jenny said she was “shocked” to learn of the meeting, which friends stumbled across while visiting the pub one evening.

“The Brunswick was one of my favourite pubs in Swansea, and I’ve been attending their quiz ever since I moved here years ago as a student,” she said.

“So I was horrified to discover they had hosted this group. Everyone I know is appalled at the rise of racism and anti‑migrant sentiment in the UK, and it’s gutting to see a well‑loved local institution contributing to this climate of hostility and fear. I won’t be going back without a public commitment from the Brunswick’s management not to host groups like this again.”

Far‑right party launch

Advance UK was set up in June 2025 by Ben Habib, former deputy leader of Reform UK, who said he wanted to establish a party “to the right of Reform.” The group has been linked with convicted fascist Tommy Robinson and has promoted far‑right narratives online. It was involved in a demonstration in London on 13 September and has supported protests outside hotels housing refugees.

Events organised by Advance UK in Cardiff and Newcastle have already been cancelled after venues refused to host them.

Pub ownership

A spokesperson for Star Pubs, which owns the Brunswick Arms building, said:

“We had no knowledge of this meeting and wouldn’t expect to as although Star Pubs owns the building, The Brunswick Arms is leased to an independent operator to run as his own business. He is responsible for the day‑to‑day running of the pub. We will however bring the situation to his attention.”

The landlord of The Brunswick Arms has been approached for comment.

Local context

The Brunswick Arms is located on Duke Street in the Uplands area of Swansea, close to St Helen’s Road — one of the city’s most multicultural streets, home to international restaurants and food stores. Swansea became one of the UK’s first Cities of Sanctuary in 2010, committing to create a culture of welcome and hospitality for newcomers.

Many petition signatories, including long‑standing customers, have left comments expressing their dismay at the pub’s decision to host the event. The petition remains open for additional signatures and can be viewed online here.

#advanceUk #dukeStreet #featured #petition #politics #pub #sandfields #starPubs #theBrunswickArms

Plans revealed for Port Talbot eco-school

Planning consultants Asbri Planning have released the details as part of a pre-planning consultation with the local community, ahead of the council submitting a formal planning application.

The proposals call for the demolition of the existing primary school and Tir Morfa Centre, and construction of a new school incorporating community facilities, a sports pitch and play areas, as well as highway and access improvements to the site.

The school will be packed with energy efficient technology including a ground source heat pump system and photovoltaic panels.

Plans say the use of carbon intensive materials will be discouraged where practicable in favour of natural and renewable materials and the use of recycled materials, where appropriate, will be encouraged.

It’s proposed that the new school will include a Welsh Language Immersion Unit and Community Hub delivering a range of educational and community services provided by Neath Port Talbot Council, partner organisations and voluntary groups.

The school design is part of the Welsh Government’s ‘Sustainable Schools Challenge’ and have been designed with help from school pupils.

Neath Port Talbot Council declined to comment on the proposal until a decision on planning approval has been made.

The consultation on the plans for new school is open on Asbri Planning’s website until 16 April 2025.

(Lead image: Asbri Planning)

#construction #education #NeathPortTalbotCouncil #newSchool #PortTalbot #Sandfields #YsgolGynraddGymraegRhosafan

Plans revealed for Port Talbot eco-school

Planning consultants Asbri Planning have released the details as part of a pre-planning consultation with the local community, ahead of the council submitting a formal planning application.

The proposals call for the demolition of the existing primary school and Tir Morfa Centre, and construction of a new school incorporating community facilities, a sports pitch and play areas, as well as highway and access improvements to the site.

The school will be packed with energy efficient technology including a ground source heat pump system and photovoltaic panels.

Plans say the use of carbon intensive materials will be discouraged where practicable in favour of natural and renewable materials and the use of recycled materials, where appropriate, will be encouraged.

It’s proposed that the new school will include a Welsh Language Immersion Unit and Community Hub delivering a range of educational and community services provided by Neath Port Talbot Council, partner organisations and voluntary groups.

The school design is part of the Welsh Government’s ‘Sustainable Schools Challenge’ and have been designed with help from school pupils.

Neath Port Talbot Council declined to comment on the proposal until a decision on planning approval has been made.

The consultation on the plans for new school is open on Asbri Planning’s website until 16 April 2025.

(Lead image: Asbri Planning)

#construction #education #NeathPortTalbotCouncil #newSchool #PortTalbot #Sandfields #YsgolGynraddGymraegRhosafan

Plans revealed for Port Talbot eco-school

Planning consultants Asbri Planning have released the details as part of a pre-planning consultation with the local community, ahead of the council submitting a formal planning application.

The proposals call for the demolition of the existing primary school and Tir Morfa Centre, and construction of a new school incorporating community facilities, a sports pitch and play areas, as well as highway and access improvements to the site.

The school will be packed with energy efficient technology including a ground source heat pump system and photovoltaic panels.

Plans say the use of carbon intensive materials will be discouraged where practicable in favour of natural and renewable materials and the use of recycled materials, where appropriate, will be encouraged.

It’s proposed that the new school will include a Welsh Language Immersion Unit and Community Hub delivering a range of educational and community services provided by Neath Port Talbot Council, partner organisations and voluntary groups.

The school design is part of the Welsh Government’s ‘Sustainable Schools Challenge’ and have been designed with help from school pupils.

Neath Port Talbot Council declined to comment on the proposal until a decision on planning approval has been made.

The consultation on the plans for new school is open on Asbri Planning’s website until 16 April 2025.

(Lead image: Asbri Planning)

#construction #education #NeathPortTalbotCouncil #newSchool #PortTalbot #Sandfields #YsgolGynraddGymraegRhosafan

Plans revealed for Port Talbot eco-school

Planning consultants Asbri Planning have released the details as part of a pre-planning consultation with the local community, ahead of the council submitting a formal planning application.

The proposals call for the demolition of the existing primary school and Tir Morfa Centre, and construction of a new school incorporating community facilities, a sports pitch and play areas, as well as highway and access improvements to the site.

The school will be packed with energy efficient technology including a ground source heat pump system and photovoltaic panels.

Plans say the use of carbon intensive materials will be discouraged where practicable in favour of natural and renewable materials and the use of recycled materials, where appropriate, will be encouraged.

It’s proposed that the new school will include a Welsh Language Immersion Unit and Community Hub delivering a range of educational and community services provided by Neath Port Talbot Council, partner organisations and voluntary groups.

The school design is part of the Welsh Government’s ‘Sustainable Schools Challenge’ and have been designed with help from school pupils.

Neath Port Talbot Council declined to comment on the proposal until a decision on planning approval has been made.

The consultation on the plans for new school is open on Asbri Planning’s website until 16 April 2025.

(Lead image: Asbri Planning)

#construction #education #NeathPortTalbotCouncil #newSchool #PortTalbot #Sandfields #YsgolGynraddGymraegRhosafan

Plans revealed for Port Talbot eco-school

Planning consultants Asbri Planning have released the details as part of a pre-planning consultation with the local community, ahead of the council submitting a formal planning application.

The proposals call for the demolition of the existing primary school and Tir Morfa Centre, and construction of a new school incorporating community facilities, a sports pitch and play areas, as well as highway and access improvements to the site.

The school will be packed with energy efficient technology including a ground source heat pump system and photovoltaic panels.

Plans say the use of carbon intensive materials will be discouraged where practicable in favour of natural and renewable materials and the use of recycled materials, where appropriate, will be encouraged.

It’s proposed that the new school will include a Welsh Language Immersion Unit and Community Hub delivering a range of educational and community services provided by Neath Port Talbot Council, partner organisations and voluntary groups.

The school design is part of the Welsh Government’s ‘Sustainable Schools Challenge’ and have been designed with help from school pupils.

Neath Port Talbot Council declined to comment on the proposal until a decision on planning approval has been made.

The consultation on the plans for new school is open on Asbri Planning’s website until 16 April 2025.

(Lead image: Asbri Planning)

#construction #education #NeathPortTalbotCouncil #newSchool #PortTalbot #Sandfields #YsgolGynraddGymraegRhosafan