Prominent Swansea Building Transformed Into Residential and Commercial Spaces
In a remarkable turn of events, a once-threatened office building in Swansea’s city centre is now set to undergo a transformation into a vibrant hub of residential and commercial spaces. The Ty Gwalia building, located at 7-13 The Kingsway, will be rejuvenated with the addition of two new floors and the construction of a six-storey apartment block in place of a rear garage. This ambitious project will result in the creation of 48 new flats and three ground-floor commercial units, breathing new life into the iconic structure.
The revitalisation of this “classically-inspired” building, which was previously considered for demolition, marks a significant milestone in Swansea’s architectural landscape. Housing association Beacon Cymru, in collaboration with construction partner Morganstone Ltd, will oversee the development of the property, now renamed as Ty Menyn. The project has received planning approval from the council’s planning committee, citing the urgent need to address the building’s deteriorating condition.
Despite its outward appearance of fair condition, a planning officer revealed that the interior of the building has suffered from significant issues such as water ingress and lack of maintenance, rendering it in a state of disrepair. The project aims to preserve the building’s historic significance by retaining the majority of its facade, which is recognised for its high-quality, classically-inspired elevations. Additionally, the development will incorporate sustainable features like rooftop solar panels, a green roof area, and a green internal wall.
The building has a rich history, having served as a butter-packing factory, a department store, and office spaces over the years before being vacated five years ago. Previous owners had obtained planning consent to demolish the building in 2021, but the acquisition by Beacon Cymru led to a more visionary approach towards its future. With the creation of new office spaces in adjacent developments like 71/72 The Kingsway, Princess Quarter, and Biome, the decision to repurpose the Ty Gwalia building for residential use was deemed appropriate by the planning committee.
The converted building will cater to modern lifestyle needs, with provisions for dedicated bicycle storage areas with charging points for electric bikes. In a bold move towards sustainability, the development will forego on-site car parking in favour of encouraging alternative modes of transportation. A developer contribution towards infrastructure improvements, such as on-street electric vehicle charging points and cycling facilities, underscores the project’s commitment to enhancing the city’s urban environment.
Rhianydd Jenkins, Executive Director of Development and Growth at Beacon Cymru, expressed enthusiasm for the preservation of the historic building, emphasising the organisation’s dedication to ensuring its survival for future generations. The sensitive redevelopment of 7-13 The Kingsway stands as a testament to collaborative efforts between public and private entities, with the support of Welsh Government and Swansea Council driving the project forward.
As Swansea continues to evolve and adapt to changing urban dynamics, the transformation of the Ty Gwalia building signifies a promising chapter in the city’s architectural evolution. By repurposing a once-neglected structure into a vibrant mix of residential and commercial spaces, the project not only preserves Swansea’s heritage but also sets a precedent for sustainable urban development. With a focus on blending historical charm with contemporary functionality, the new Ty Menyn complex is poised to become a beacon of revitalisation in Swansea’s city centre.