Urban Splash, a regeneration specialist, has unveiled incredible plans to transform Swansea’s beachfront Civic Centre and six other city sites into a vibrant ‘city on the beach’ with a range of amenities. The Civic Centre will feature seafront restaurants, cafes, bars, a hotel, and even an aquarium. The ambitious project aims to revamp the current council headquarters to include ground-floor dining options, residential flats, and potentially a hotel. Additionally, a two-storey aquarium showcasing marine life will be integrated into the design. Urban Splash is also looking to utilise the surrounding green spaces for outdoor markets, theatres, and screenings.
The Civic Centre site covers 23 acres and is set to see the construction of new blocks of flats as part of the grand redevelopment scheme. Leisure and cultural facilities are also planned to maximize the waterfront location and enhance the overall experience for residents and visitors. The current Civic Centre houses Swansea Council employees, the central library, and the West Glamorgan Archive Service. Plans are underway to relocate staff, with the library and archives set to move to the former BHS store in the city centre.
Urban Splash, appointed as the strategic partner by the council in 2021, presented their vision for the ‘City on the Beach’ project at a recent showcase event. Co-founder Jonathan Falkingham dispelled rumours of the Civic Centre facing demolition, highlighting the building’s quality and adaptability for exciting new uses. Development director David Warburton emphasised the vast potential of the waterfront location, indicating space for around 500 to 600 new homes on the site.
The revitalization plans extend beyond the Civic Centre, with other sites earmarked for redevelopment including St David’s multi-storey car park to St Mary’s Square, St Thomas by the River Tawe, Hafod-Morfa Copperworks, Swansea Marina, and Oxford Street car park. These areas will see a mix of new homes, heritage restoration, leisure facilities, and commercial spaces. Urban Splash aims to breathe fresh life into these locations while preserving the city’s unique charm and history.
Acknowledging the mixed opinions on the Civic Centre’s architectural significance, Urban Splash is committed to rekindling public affection for the landmark. While precise timelines are pending pending planning permission, progress is already visible with detailed plans approved for a public sector office hub near St David’s. Further development proposals are in the pipeline, with a focus on creating a vibrant office-led quarter and enhancing retail options in the area.
Urban Splash’s long-term commitment to the project, spanning at least 20 years, demonstrates a dedication to the city’s transformation. The collaboration between Urban Splash and Swansea Council signals a new era of growth and innovation for the seaside city. Council leader Rob Stewart lauded the ongoing developments across Swansea, including partnerships like the one with Urban Splash, which promises to rejuvenate multiple sites for the community’s benefit.
The ‘City on the Beach’ project represents a significant step towards revitalising Swansea’s waterfront and enhancing its appeal to residents and businesses. With a focus on blending modern amenities with the city’s historic charm, Urban Splash’s vision aims to create a dynamic urban environment that celebrates Swansea’s unique identity. As plans progress and community feedback is incorporated, Swansea looks set to evolve into a thriving hub of lifestyle, culture, and innovation, making it an even more desirable place to live and work in the years to come.