**Historic Swansea Cinema to Undergo Major Transformation**
A much-loved historic building in Swansea city centre is set to be brought back to life, as plans move forward to redevelop the former Castle Cinema. Once a thriving hub of culture, the Grade II listed property will be converted into a mix of contemporary apartments and commercial spaces, providing a new chapter in its remarkable story.
Photographs taken inside the old Castle Cinema offer a poignant glimpse into its past. The faded grandeur of its original cinema seats, classic movie posters still clinging to the walls, and vintage memorabilia serve as tangible reminders of decades gone by. Such artefacts have captured the imagination of locals, many of whom recall fond childhood memories spent in its darkened auditoriums.
The cinema’s story extends further into recent times. It was later repurposed as ‘Laserzone’, an entertainment attraction that hosted generations of families and friends, until its relocation to another unit in Swansea. Despite changes in use, the building’s imposing facade and architectural details have remained a recognisable feature along Worcester Place, just opposite Swansea Castle.
Exciting new proposals led by local community group Beacon Cymru, in partnership with contractors Easyliving Ltd, are now poised to breathe new life into the site. Their ambitious vision will see the creation of 30 modern apartments, aiming to answer local demand for one- and two-bedroom homes. At street level, new commercial spaces – including a proposed café or restaurant set over two floors – will overlook both the square and the historic castle grounds, further enhancing the vibrancy of the area.
In a move welcomed by city leaders, the project has attracted support from Swansea Council and funding via the Welsh Government’s Transforming Towns programme. The partnership reflects a broader drive to regenerate Swansea’s city centre, with the Castle Cinema’s renewal forming a key part of these ongoing efforts. The lower sections of the building, currently facing The Strand, have also been earmarked for additional small-scale office spaces, designed to stimulate local business and employment opportunities.
Reflecting on the cinema’s legacy, Swansea Council leader Rob Stewart shared his personal memories: “Many local people will have fond memories of time spent in the former Castle Cinema. I remember watching Star Trek IV: The Voyage Home there in the 1980s, and in the 1990s, I visited again when it became Laserzone.” Mr Stewart hailed the project as “an exciting scheme”, saying it would give the landmark building “a new lease of life” and complement city-wide plans to transform Castle Square into a greener, more welcoming destination.
Beacon Cymru’s deputy chief executive, Luke Takeuchi, expressed pride in the collaborative nature of the project. “We’re hugely excited about the Castle Cinema building project,” he said. “It’s a great example of how working together can deliver positive change, making the area more vibrant while also addressing the housing crisis.”
Looking ahead, Stephanie Hughes, operations manager at Easyliving Ltd, confirmed construction is expected to commence in the coming weeks, with the work scheduled to last approximately 27 months. The transformation promises “striking differences”, according to released artist’s impressions, with the addition of modern features such as a new glazed box structure overlooking the castle.
This development underscores the broader changes sweeping through Swansea city centre, which has already seen several regeneration initiatives in progress. As buildings like the Castle Cinema are preserved and adapted, the city is not only safeguarding its heritage but laying the foundations for a more dynamic and inclusive future.
For many in Swansea, the revival of the Castle Cinema is not just the restoration of bricks and mortar, but the rekindling of shared stories and community spirit. With its blend of heritage and innovation, the project stands as a testament to the enduring value of reimagining local landmarks for generations to come.