Travellers’ site set for significant expansion in Swansea

Travellers’ Site in Swansea to Undergo Significant Expansion

A travellers’ site in Swansea is set to undergo a significant expansion, thanks to a £116,185 grant from the Welsh Government. The expansion will include the installation of a perimeter fence at the site located at Mill Stream Way, Llansamlet, along with the construction of a new access road. Council cabinet members were informed of the plans during a meeting on October 24. Future investments at the site will involve the addition of new pitches and facilities, pending planning approvals and further funding from the Welsh Government.

The Mill Stream Way site was established just over ten years ago after being relocated from a nearby area due to a flood defence project. Initially unauthorised, the site was later granted a certificate of lawful development in 2023, allowing for its official use as a travellers’ site. Following this approval, the council applied for permission to expand the site, which was granted in December of the same year. The current site comprises four pitches and is slated to be enlarged to accommodate up to 24 pitches, spanning an area of around four acres. Each pitch will include a toilet/washing block equipped with solar panels and two parking spaces. The design and access statement provided by the council highlighted that the new facilities would blend in with the existing structures and create engaging streetscapes.

Despite objections from Natural Resources Wales (NRW) regarding flood risk policy compliance, planning officers deemed the application acceptable in terms of flood risk management. Public objection to the expansion cited concerns about waste disposal and environmental impact on the site, which is part of a conservation area. The council addressed these concerns by imposing conditions related to ecology, flood mitigation, and drainage, which will need to be met during the construction phase.

Deputy council leader Cllr Andrea Lewis emphasised the need to utilise the allocated funds this financial year to progress the expansion of the site. While the initial developments will allow for a substantial increase in size, additional funding from the Welsh Government will be necessary to complete the project. The expansion aims to meet the growing demand for travellers’ accommodation in the area and provide enhanced facilities for residents.

The planned expansion of the travellers’ site in Swansea signifies a positive step towards addressing the accommodation needs of the community. With careful consideration of environmental impact and infrastructure requirements, the project aims to enhance the site’s functionality and create a welcoming environment for residents. As the development progresses, stakeholders will continue to work towards fulfilling the site’s expansion goals in alignment with regulatory standards and community needs.