City centre regeneration gathers pace

The work we’re doing to revitalise the city centre continues to gather pace. This week, I paid a visit to Y Storfa to catch up on the progress of a project that will see big changes for some of our staff when they move over to provide face-to-face services to the public in the heart of Oxford Street. The progress in turning the former BHS store into a modern, attractive home for the central library, the West Glamorgan Archive Service, and much more is very impressive. Next week, initial site investigations are starting near the former St David’s Shopping centre ahead of building work on the public sector hub project. And in the next few weeks we’ll see the transformation of Castle Square gardens underway. All this on top of the recently-completed 71/72 Kingsway.

These results of our ambition for the future of the city centre are having a positive impact on retail business morale in the city centre, as I learned at Swansea BID’s board meeting yesterday. The board, which includes city centre businesses and other key partners, will also be looking at the council’s new Placemaking Strategy in the coming weeks. Currently in draft form, it will set out the strategic context and planning framework for city centre development over the next decade, so it’s important that BID members and other partners have the opportunity to help shape views. More work and further consultation are being done over the coming months, and I’ll keep you updated on progress. In the meantime, my thanks to the council teams involved for what’s been achieved so far.

Another key project our officers are leading on is the Regional Transport Plan. Whether it’s walking, cycling, taking a bus, catching a train or driving, transport is something that affects everyone in South West Wales. The draft plan is out for public consultation right now, so find out more about it and have your say here.

Last night five of our corporate building services’ apprentices picked up prizes in this year’s Skills Competition Wales event at Swansea Arena. It’s run by Skills Excellence in Wales and supports apprentices, trainees and students to improve their skills. Congratulations to Keiron Reddin, Kori Williams, Ciaran Evans, Josh Stock and Carlton Price. It adds to the APSE awards the council and our apprentices picked up in Glasgow last week. Well done to all involved.

Finally, it’s farewell to Karen Betts, who is retiring later this month after 21 years with the council. Karen is best known around the council for our advertising and sponsorship programme, as well as her enthusiasm and drive. Thank you, Karen and good luck in your next chapter.