Tesco launches Swansea toy drive for Mr X Christmas Appeal

Local stores join long‑running appeal

Two Tesco Extra stores in Llansamlet and Pontardulais Road, Fforestfach have set up collection points for the Mr X Christmas Appeal, which has been running in Swansea for more than six decades.

Donations of new, unwrapped toys can be made in store until 15 December, with gifts distributed to children across Swansea and Neath Port Talbot through nearly 150 childcare agencies.

66 years of festive giving

The Mr X Appeal was founded in the late 1950s by Swansea businessman Tom Bravin, who kept his identity secret for decades while anonymously delivering thousands of presents to children. His identity was revealed after his death in 2016, but the appeal continues in his name, now in its 66th year.

Organisers say the tradition has become a cornerstone of the city’s festive season, ensuring that children who might otherwise go without receive a gift at Christmas.

Community voices

Trevor Evans, Community Champion at Tesco Pontardulais Road Extra in Fforestfach, said the response from local shoppers is always strong:

“This year’s toy donation campaign is a fantastic way for customers to help local families in need and ensure children in our community have something to open on Christmas Day.”

Catherine Hill, Store Manager at Tesco Llansamlet Extra, added:

“We have been supporting the Mr X Appeal for several years. We have an amazing response at this store and provide lots of children with gifts thanks to the generosity of our customers.”

Wider support

More than 800 Tesco Extra stores across the UK are taking part in the toy drive. Last year, customers donated 125,000 toys, with organisers hoping to beat that figure in 2025.

#charity #christmas #christmasGift #communityChampion #fforestfach #llansamlet #mrXAppeal #tesco #tescoExtra #tomBravin #toyDonation #toys

7,000 homes promised, just 300 built: Swansea’s housing blueprint falters

What this feature covers

• The 7,000 homes promised in Swansea’s Local Development Plan – and why fewer than 300 have been built
• A site‑by‑site look at the Strategic Development Areas: from Penllergaer to St Thomas
• The obstacles – from Covid and costs to nutrient neutrality rules
• The impact on families, communities and local services
• How the next Local Development Plan (LDP2) could reshape Swansea’s growth to 2038

When Swansea councillors adopted the Local Development Plan (LDP) in 2019, it was meant to be a clear guide for growth. Instead of scattered estates, the council wanted builders to focus on a dozen large “Strategic Development Areas” (SDAs) — planned new neighbourhoods with schools, shops, roads and green space. The promise was bold: more than 7,000 homes within five years. Six years later, the council’s own Annual Monitoring Report shows fewer than 300 have been built.

At the latest planning committee, Cllr Peter Black voiced frustration:

“It does seem as if the plan is aiming to be a planned economy without actually any control over the economy. We’re saying how many houses we want built without having any control over that.”

Responding, Tom Evans, the council’s Placemaking and Strategic Planning Manager, acknowledged the difficulties, stressing that Swansea is not alone:

“Deliverability of residential sites has been one of the biggest difficulties we’ve experienced — and it’s not limited to Swansea, it’s a national issue.”

The Strategic Development Sites

Parc Mawr, Penllergaer (planned: 644 homes | delivered: 119)

Bellway Homes is building here, and aerial photos show rows of new houses already occupied. But Parc Mawr has been one of the most controversial sites. A vocal campaign group, Preserve Penllergaer, fought the allocation from the start, warning that the promised primary school and relief road might never materialise. Penllergaer Community Council has echoed those concerns, arguing the development risks overwhelming local services. The late Cllr Wendy Fitzgerald was a prominent critic, warning in 2020 that the scheme would “change the character of the village forever.”

Garden Village, Gorseinon (planned: 700 homes | delivered: 24)

Garden Village has history: it was first conceived as a model community in the early 20th century, but World War I halted progress. A century later, Persimmon was tasked with reviving the idea. Yet only 24 homes have been built so far. The site has been dogged by concerns over ancient woodland, which led to a public inquiry, and by scepticism that the “garden village” branding masks a conventional estate. For now, the grand vision remains largely on paper.

Pontarddulais (planned in the LDP: 486 homes | delivered: 0)

On paper, Pontarddulais was supposed to take around 486 homes under the Local Development Plan. In reality, the schemes now on the table go well beyond that figure — and the town has become one of the fiercest battlegrounds in Swansea’s housing debate.

Persimmon’s zero‑carbon neighbourhood

The biggest proposal is from Persimmon Homes, which has branded its 280‑acre scheme south of Glanffrwd Road as a “zero‑carbon ready” neighbourhood. The plans, lodged in 2024, set out 516 homes powered by air‑source heat pumps and solar panels, with no gas connections at all. Persimmon promise a new primary school, a community hall, parks, play areas and sports pitches, alongside contributions for a 3G pitch at Pontarddulais Comprehensive and upgrades to local bus services.

Supporters say it would bring jobs and give young families a chance to stay in the town. But opponents point to the same pinch‑points that have dogged every major application here: traffic through St Teilo Street, the Station Road/Water Street junction, and the pressure on schools and GPs. Councillors resolved to approve the scheme in March 2025 “despite traffic and infrastructure concerns,” but as of this autumn, the fields remain untouched.

Walters’ aluminium site and the spine road row

A second scheme is also moving forward on the former aluminium factory site off Station Road, promoted by Walters Land Ltd. Outline consent has been granted for up to 150 homes, part of a wider tract of land that could eventually deliver as many as 720. The plan has been mired in rows over the so‑called “spine street” — a relief road meant to take traffic away from Water Street. The original LDP envisaged a western route parallel to the railway, but flood risk has forced Walters to propose a new alignment via High Street and Woodville Street. Residents fear it will funnel HGVs and commuter traffic through residential streets.

Even councillors have voiced unease. Cllr Phil Downing warned at committee: “It’s either going to be a functional road, or it’s not – in which case what are we doing?” Despite those misgivings, the outline plans were approved, with just 10% affordable housing promised because of abnormal remediation costs. Walters intend to clean up the site and then sell it on to a housebuilder for detailed consent.

For now, Pontarddulais remains in limbo: two major schemes approved in principle, more homes than the LDP ever envisaged, but not a single brick laid. To campaigners, it’s proof the town is being asked to take too much. To developers, it’s a chance to deliver “sustainable, future‑proof” neighbourhoods. To residents, it’s years of uncertainty with no clear end in sight.

Both major schemes also fall within the nutrient neutrality catchment, meaning even with outline approvals, progress could be delayed until developers can prove their plans will not add to pollution in the Burry Inlet.

Morriston, Clasemont Road (planned: 490–600 homes | delivered: 0)

The land north of Clasemont Road, known as Pantlasau Farm, was one of the flagship allocations in the Local Development Plan. A detailed “Design Code” was drawn up in 2017 by consultants Mitchell Eley Gould on behalf of the Morris Estate Trustees, setting out a vision for up to 600 homes.

The plans imagined a high‑density, walkable neighbourhood inspired by the original 18th‑century Morriston grid. Key features included:

• A new primary school and playing fields.
• A local centre with shops, community space and a small commercial hub.
• A network of green corridors and a nature reserve to buffer the site from the M4.
• A mix of houses and flats, with higher densities around the centre and lower densities at the edges.
• Play areas and sports facilities (one multi‑use games area, three larger play areas and nine smaller ones).
• A street layout designed as “shared spaces” to slow traffic and prioritise walking and cycling.

The 26‑hectare site was to be built in phases over a decade, starting with around 100 homes and a small commercial space, before expanding to include the school and community hub.

A masterplan on paper

Yet despite the detailed framework, no homes have been built. The allocation remains on paper, a reminder that even with masterplans and design codes, delivery depends on developer appetite, infrastructure funding and market conditions.

Llangyfelach, M4 Junction 46 (planned: 565 homes in the LDP | live proposals: up to 1,950 | delivered: 0)

From 565 to 1,950 homes

At the northern edge of Swansea, just off Junction 46 of the M4, lies one of the most ambitious housing sites in the Local Development Plan. Known as Pentref Rhostir, the 280‑acre tract of farmland was originally allocated for 565 homes. Since then, developer Llanmoor Homes has secured outline consent for a far larger scheme: a new community of up to 1,950 homes to be built over 15–20 years, with around 15% affordable.

The masterplan promises more than just housing. It includes:

• A new primary school.
• A local centre with shops, food outlets, medical and community facilities.
• A 1.4km link road designed to ease congestion on Llangyfelach Road.
• Around 100 acres of public open space, with sports pitches, play areas and landscaped green corridors.
• Contributions to active travel routes, ecology improvements, and an on‑site demand‑responsive bus service.

Outline consent, no spades in the ground

The first phase was expected to deliver 472 homes, with Llanmoor previously aiming to start infrastructure works in spring 2025 and open a sales centre by autumn. But as of autumn 2025, the fields remain untouched. Despite outline consent and glossy brochures, not a single home has yet been built.

For supporters, Pentref Rhostir is a chance to deliver the scale of housing Swansea desperately needs, in a location with space to grow. For critics, it is a symbol of the gap between the city’s housing promises and the reality on the ground — a flagship allocation still waiting to break ground.

Despite outline consent, the site lies within the affected catchment, so condition discharge and detailed applications may now face additional scrutiny under the new nutrient rules.

Penderi Regeneration

Penderi — the collective name for the communities of Blaenymaes, Portmead, Penplas and Cadle — is not a strategic LDP housing allocation but a neighbourhood regeneration programme. The area is dominated by social housing, with thousands of homes owned by Pobl and Swansea Council, and has long faced challenges of poor connectivity, deprivation and ageing housing stock.

Since the LDP was adopted, the most significant investment here has been in retrofitting existing homes rather than large‑scale new construction. The flagship Penderi Energy Project, led by Pobl in partnership with Sero, is one of the UK’s largest residential retrofit schemes. It is upgrading 644 social homes with solar panels, battery storage and other energy‑efficient technologies, aiming to cut bills and carbon emissions.

There has also been some new council housing: Swansea Council has completed 36 homes off Colliers Way in Blaenymaes — 18 built to ultra‑efficient Passive House standards and 18 to the council’s own “Swansea Standard,” which performs 25% better than building regulations.

The 2022 regeneration prospectus, prepared with The Urbanists, sets out a 15‑year vision for a 92‑hectare area. It proposes:

• Transforming The Ravine and other green corridors, with 27ha of landscape improvements overall.
• Upgrading 14ha of sports fields at Penlan Fields.
• Testing layouts for 384 new dwellings, potentially adding around 921 residents.
• Raising tree canopy cover from 7.5% to 50% within 15 years, through new street trees, fruit trees in gardens and extensive planting.

The ambition is to turn Penderi from a low‑density, service‑poor estate into a greener, healthier, better‑connected neighbourhood. Progress so far has been modest — a retrofit programme and a handful of new council homes — but the groundwork has been laid for a much larger transformation if the masterplan is realised.

Cefn Coed Hospital, Tycoch (planned: 371 homes | delivered: 73 pre‑LDP, 0 since)

The sprawling Cefn Coed Hospital site was originally earmarked for around 350–370 homes once services moved out. An early phase on the edge of the site, built by Bellway Homes off Lon Masarn, delivered 73 houses before the Local Development Plan was adopted.

But the wider redevelopment has stalled — and the scale of housing is now set to shrink. In 2023 Swansea Bay University Health Board confirmed that part of the land will be retained for a new adult acute mental health unit, with space for parking and possible future expansion. That means the number of homes likely to be built has fallen to around 170, almost half the original figure.

The health board has also acquired and plans to demolish an old Welsh Ambulance Service building on the site to make way for the new unit, subject to planning approval. Officials said the change reflects the need to modernise NHS facilities while managing a £100m+ maintenance backlog across the estate.

At the same time, the board has identified surplus land, including parts of Cefn Coed, as potential “candidate sites” for housing in Swansea Council’s next Local Development Plan (LDP2). That means some areas could still be released for development, but the final balance between health facilities and housing will only be confirmed in the new plan.

Waunarlwydd / Fforestfach (planned in the LDP: 716 homes | delivered: 0)

This corner of Swansea was earmarked in the Local Development Plan for major growth, with around 716 homes expected. In practice, the proposals now emerging are even bigger.

Persimmon’s ribbon of development

Persimmon’s outline for a 600‑home estate has already stirred fears of a “continuous ribbon” of development stretching from Penllergaer to Gowerton. Campaigners warn it would erode the green gaps between communities and overload the A484 corridor.

Barratt’s Keepers Lodge vision

And in late 2024, Barratt Homes began consulting on a second scheme at Keepers Lodge Farm, off Titanium Road. Their boards, shown at a pre‑application consultation in November 2024, set out a vision for around 400 homes, a new primary school, and a “community heart” with shops, commercial space and community facilities.

The boards also noted that the wider site is allocated in the LDP for mixed‑use development of approximately 1,319 homes — far more than the 716 figure usually quoted. Barratt’s “Keepers Lodge” would be the first phase of that larger allocation.

For now, though, the fields remain untouched. No formal planning application has yet been lodged, and residents are bracing for another round of arguments over traffic, schools and the loss of green space.

Gowerton, Fairwood Terrace (planned in the LDP: 664 homes | delivered: 0)

A strategic site with zero delivery

This site has become a symbol of the contradictions at the heart of Swansea’s Local Development Plan. On paper, the land at the end of Fairwood Terrace was earmarked for hundreds of homes. But when the first major application came forward — a joint bid by Persimmon Homes West Wales and Urban Style Land Ltd — councillors turned it down, despite their own officers recommending approval.

The outline application, lodged in 2024, sought permission for up to 216 homes alongside some mixed‑use commercial space. The plans promised a blend of flats and houses from one to four bedrooms, with just over 10% affordable housing, plus new pedestrian crossings, an upgraded signal‑controlled junction at Fairwood Terrace and Victoria Road, and even a potential park‑and‑ride hub to serve Gowerton railway station.

Residents were unconvinced. A Facebook campaign group, “Save Gowerton From Gridlock,” mobilised hundreds of objections, warning that the extra traffic would overwhelm the already congested Fairwood Terrace/Victoria Road junction, where a low railway bridge and rugby club access already create bottlenecks. Others raised concerns about the loss of mature trees and green space, and about pressure on local schools and GP surgeries.

In September 2024, the planning committee narrowly voted to refuse the scheme, citing congestion and amenity impacts. Officers warned the refusal reasons were weak and would be hard to defend at appeal, but councillors stood firm.

The twist came in 2025, when the case went to appeal before Planning and Environment Decisions Wales (PEDW). Gowerton ward councillors Susan Jones and Dai Jenkins, who had opposed the scheme, initially agreed to defend the refusal. But they later stepped back, saying they wanted to represent their constituents’ views more freely outside the formal constraints of the planning process. Into the breach stepped Cllr Peter Black, who has taken on the role of defending the council’s decision at the hearing, supported by planning officers.

The developers, meanwhile, are pressing hard. Persimmon and Urban Style Land argue the scheme fits the Local Development Plan and meets pressing housing needs. They have even lodged a claim for costs, insisting there is an “overwhelming case” for approval. Nearly 600 local submissions have been made to PEDW, underlining the depth of feeling in the community.

For campaigners, the refusal was a victory for common sense. For developers, it is a test case of whether Swansea can deliver the homes its own plan says are needed. For the council, it has become an awkward standoff: a strategic allocation with zero delivery, a developer determined to push ahead, and a community that feels it has already reached breaking point.

The Fairwood Terrace appeal has already been postponed while Planning and Environment Decisions Wales (PEDW) seeks further evidence on nutrient impacts — underlining how the new rules are already slowing decisions.

⚖️ Gowerton at Appeal

The Fairwood Terrace site (216 homes, part of the Gowerton allocation) was refused by Swansea’s planning committee in 2024 on traffic grounds, despite officers recommending approval.

Planning officers warned the refusal reasons were “not particularly strong” and may be hard to defend at appeal.

After ward members stepped back, Cllr Peter Black was nominated to defend the decision at a Planning and Environment Decisions Wales (PEDW) hearing.

Developers Persimmon Homes and Urban Style Land argue the scheme complies with the LDP and would provide “much‑needed housing.”

Nearly 600 local submissions have been made to PEDW, alongside petitions and objections citing congestion and safety concerns.

The appeal has since been postponed while inspectors seek further evidence on nutrient impacts, showing how the new nutrient neutrality rules are already affecting live cases.

Central Area / Waterfront (planned: 856 homes | delivered: 128 so far, with more underway)

The Central Area / Waterfront SDA covers Swansea city centre and the SA1 Waterfront. It was earmarked in the Local Development Plan for 856 homes, alongside new commercial and leisure space. Since adoption in 2019, only 128 homes have been completed, but several major schemes are now underway that could lift delivery closer to target.

City centre regeneration

City centre regeneration has been the most visible. The Copr Bay Arena and bridge opened in 2022 as Phase One of the Swansea Central project. Phase Two is now progressing, with the former St David’s Shopping Centre site earmarked for a new office and learning campus. The council’s flagship 71/72 The Kingsway office scheme is complete, providing space for around 600 jobs in the tech and digital sectors. Alongside this, upper floors of vacant commercial buildings on The Kingsway and High Street are being converted into apartments to bring more residents into the core.

The Civic Centre prize

The Civic Centre site on the seafront is the next big prize. Urban Splash unveiled a “sketchbook vision” in December 2024 to transform the 23‑acre site with 500–600 homes, ground‑floor cafes and bars, a hotel, and even a two‑storey aquarium. The scheme will only move forward once council services relocate to Y Storfa, a new public sector hub in the former BHS store on Oxford Street. Y Storfa is due to open in late 2025, housing the central library, West Glamorgan Archive Service, and a range of council and partner services.

SA1 Waterfront schemes

SA1 Waterfront remains a key housing location. Pobl’s Sidings development added new apartments soon after the LDP was adopted, and further schemes are now in train. Construction began in early 2025 on 43 affordable homes on Langdon Road, due for completion in 2027. In late 2024, Beacon Cymru (formerly Coastal Housing) started work on 104 social rent apartments with ground‑floor commercial space on Kings Road. In May 2025, the Welsh Government agreed to sell two further SA1 plots (D5B and D9B) to Pobl and Beacon Cymru for 69 more social homes.

The University of Wales Trinity Saint David is also expanding its footprint in SA1. Its Innovation Matrix — a facility to connect business and academia — launched in 2025, with further research and collaboration projects under discussion.

Taken together, these projects show the Central Area / Waterfront is finally beginning to deliver on its promise of a denser, more vibrant urban core. But while the commercial and cultural elements have advanced quickly, the housing element is still catching up. Council officers say the area remains a priority for affordable and mixed‑use growth, with brownfield redevelopment and conversions central to the strategy.

Fabian Way Corridor (planned: 525 homes | delivered: 60)

Marketed in the Local Development Plan as Swansea’s “Innovation Corridor,” Fabian Way was supposed to deliver hundreds of homes alongside jobs, research facilities and new commercial space. To date, just 60 homes have been built, leaving the residential element far short of the 525 promised.

Instead, most of the activity has been around infrastructure and employment. Swansea University’s Bay Campus is now firmly established, Amazon’s distribution centre dominates the eastern end, and SA1 continues to grow with new university and residential blocks. But the corridor’s housing allocations remain largely untouched.

Transport first, housing later

Two linked transport schemes are now at the heart of the strategy. The Baldwin’s Bridge replacement would see the existing bridge over Baldwin’s Crescent rebuilt or upgraded, while a new Langdon Road connection would create a spine road through SA1, parallel to Fabian Way. Together, they are designed to ease congestion, improve access to the city centre, and provide safer walking and cycling routes for students and commuters. Swansea Council has already approved land acquisition south of Fabian Way at the docks, and Welsh Government funding is in place for feasibility and design. The project is listed as a priority in the regional transport plan.

Crucially, this is a joint scheme between Swansea Council and Neath Port Talbot Council, because the county boundary runs directly through the middle of the development zone — just west of the Bay Campus. That split jurisdiction has long complicated delivery, but both councils are now working together to unlock the corridor’s potential.

Another missing piece is the long‑promised Southern Access Road to Coed Darcy. Planned for more than a decade, it was intended to link the 4,000‑home “urban village” on the former BP refinery site directly to Fabian Way, relieving pressure on Jersey Marine and providing a dedicated public transport corridor. Sometimes referred to as “Ffordd Amazon Stage 2,” the road was identified in the 2010 Fabian Way Transport Assessment as essential early infrastructure. Yet only a short stub was ever built, ending abruptly. The full link has been repeatedly delayed by the slow pace of Coed Darcy itself and the engineering challenge of crossing the protected Crymlyn Bog. Neath Port Talbot Council now acknowledges the scheme “has not been developed,” and its future depends on whether the re‑scaled Coed Darcy plans finally move forward.

Other works are also reshaping the area. Neath Port Talbot Council has begun major drainage improvements on Fabian Way to tackle persistent flooding, supported by the Welsh Government’s Resilient Roads Fund. Plans are advancing to expand the Fabian Way park‑and‑ride into a “green transport hub”, potentially with hydrogen production and large‑scale EV charging. And within SA1 itself, new planning applications for apartments on Langdon Road show that piecemeal residential growth is still happening.

For now, though, the vision of a thriving mixed‑use corridor remains incomplete. The infrastructure projects may unlock development sites and improve connectivity, but the housing allocations are still waiting to be realised — a decade after they were first promised.

Tawe Riverside / St Thomas (planned: 258 homes | delivered: 0)

On the east bank of the River Tawe, the St Thomas allocation was supposed to deliver 258 homes as part of a wider riverside regeneration. To date, not a single dwelling has been built. Instead, the area has become the focus of a broader transformation effort, backed by UK Government Levelling Up funding and a new masterplan led by Urban Splash.

Urban Splash and Lovell’s riverside vision

The St Thomas Riverside site, once home to a railway station and later left as a green corridor, is now the subject of detailed proposals by Urban Splash and Lovell. Their Stage 1 Project Plan sets out around 158 new homes, half of them affordable, alongside a riverside promenade, a new public square, and flexible commercial units. Stirling Prize‑winning architects AHMM are part of the design team, with plans for riverside townhouses, a six‑storey “marker” building, and a central garden street. The scheme promises to reconnect St Thomas with the river for the first time in 150 years, with potential for a new pedestrian and cycle bridge to the city centre.

Levelling Up heritage projects

At the same time, the Tawe Riverside Corridor Action Plan highlights the area’s role as a heritage destination. A £28m Levelling Up programme is funding restoration of the Hafod Morfa Copperworks, new pontoons on the river, and upgrades to Swansea Museum. Together, these projects aim to create jobs, attract visitors, and complete missing links in the riverside walkway and cycle network.

Council depot site in play

The council’s own landholdings are also in play. Swansea Council has confirmed plans to vacate its long‑standing Pipehouse Wharf depot, relocating operations to a new facility at the Enterprise Park. The riverside depot, currently used for waste and recycling vehicles, sits next to the St David’s student accommodation on Morfa Road. Officials say the site is expected to generate “significant interest” from potential purchasers once it is released, adding to the pool of land available for regeneration along the Tawe corridor. Coastal Housing previously explored a 150‑home scheme here, though those plans did not progress. With the depot now earmarked for disposal, the site is once again likely to attract developers as part of the city’s wider riverside transformation.

For residents, the promise is of a greener, better‑connected neighbourhood, with new homes, public spaces and heritage attractions. But as with so many of Swansea’s strategic sites, the vision remains on paper. Delivery will depend on overcoming viability challenges, securing infrastructure funding, and navigating new environmental rules such as nutrient neutrality.

📊 Strategic Sites at a Glance

Parc Mawr, Penllergaer
644 planned | 119 built

Garden Village, Gorseinon
700 planned | 24 built

Pontarddulais
486 planned | 0 built

Morriston, Clasemont Road
490–600 planned | 0 built

Cefn Coed Hospital, Tycoch
371 planned | 73 built (before the LDP, none since)

Waunarlwydd / Fforestfach
716 planned | 0 built

Gowerton, Fairwood Terrace
664 planned | 0 built

Llangyfelach, M4 J46
565 planned (LDP allocation) | 0 built

Central Area / Waterfront
856 planned | 128 built

Fabian Way Corridor
525 planned | 60 built

Tawe Riverside / St Thomas
258 planned | 0 built

Total promised: 6,575–6,685 | Total delivered: fewer than 300

Why Swansea’s big sites stalled

The council points to Covid shutdowns, labour shortages, rising material costs, and new rules on drainage and biodiversity. Developers say large, infrastructure‑heavy sites are harder to make viable quickly. Campaigners argue the allocations were unrealistic, too big, or in the wrong places. And Swansea is not alone: Cardiff, Newport, Bridgend and Neath Port Talbot have all reported housing shortfalls.

Evans told councillors the next plan will need to be more selective:

“All of those sites that are identified, whether for housing or employment, are being reviewed as part of the new plan. What we need to do is make sure we’re identifying the most sustainable and deliverable, most appropriate sites for the next 10 to 15 years.”

On top of these challenges, a new environmental constraint has emerged — one that could stall Swansea’s housing pipeline even further.

Environmental rules put housing targets at risk

New nutrient neutrality rules could delay major housing projects across Swansea for months, threatening the city’s ability to meet its housing targets.

Natural Resources Wales (NRW) has ruled that the Burry Inlet and Carmarthen Bay Estuary Special Area of Conservation is in an “unfavourable condition” due to excess nutrients. That means every new development in the catchment must now prove it will not add to pollution levels.

Ian Davies, the council’s development manager, told the planning committee:

“We have to be sure that the development is not adding to the nutrients that are entering the water course and therefore impacting adversely on water quality.”

He warned that while small schemes such as household extensions can be “screened out”, larger housing projects — from single dwellings to 500‑home estates — will be on hold unless developers can demonstrate nutrient neutrality.

“Some of the larger applications… are going to be on hold. My feeling is that’s likely to be months rather than weeks in resolving this, even longer potentially.”

The change affects some of Swansea’s biggest growth areas, including the Loughor Estuary and north‑west Swansea, where thousands of homes are allocated in the Local Development Plan.

Cllr Peter Black told the committee:

“This area is one of the biggest areas of new house building growth in Swansea… those bigger applications are going to be massively hit by this.”

Knock‑on effects for viability

Developers will be expected to fund mitigation measures, such as reed beds or land set aside for nutrient offsetting, secured for the lifetime of the development. Officers warned this could reduce the scope for Section 106 contributions, meaning fewer affordable homes or lower investment in schools and community facilities.

“You may see reports recommending approval but not at the sort of levels of policy requirements in terms of section 106 contributions,” Davies said.

Regional challenge, national task force

The rules apply equally to council‑led housing schemes, not just private developers. Swansea is now working with Welsh Government, NRW and neighbouring authorities through a new task force to find long‑term solutions.

Tom Evans, the council’s placemaking and strategic planning manager, stressed that Swansea is not being passive:

“We have a seat around the table at the Welsh Government task force… we are very closely involved in trying to find the solutions.”

Officials stressed the requirement is a matter of law under the Habitats Regulations, not optional guidance, and will shape how housing sites are brought forward in the next Local Development Plan.

What it means for people here

For families, it means fewer affordable homes and more bidding wars. For young people, it means being priced out or pushed further afield. For communities, it means the schools, GP surgeries and roads that were supposed to come with the big sites haven’t materialised, leaving existing services under strain. Instead, most of Swansea’s new homes are coming from smaller “windfall” sites like Cwmrhydyceirw Quarry and Hendrefoilan. They’ve delivered hundreds of homes, but without the infrastructure the SDAs were supposed to guarantee.

The road to LDP2

The council is now preparing a new Local Development Plan, known as LDP2, which will run to 2038. Officials say the lessons of the past five years will feed into it: why the strategic sites stalled, how to make development viable, and how to ensure infrastructure arrives alongside homes.

Evans added that continuing to monitor delivery will be important:

“Producing another monitoring report would help us see whether or not delivery has been significantly affected by these new constraints.”

The draft “Preferred Strategy” for LDP2 doesn’t re‑list the stalled strategic sites by name. Instead, all existing allocations are being reviewed — some may be carried forward, others dropped, and new ones added. More than a thousand “candidate sites” have been submitted by landowners and developers, but inclusion on the register doesn’t guarantee allocation. Only those judged sustainable and deliverable will make it into the next plan.

For campaigners in Penllergaer, Pontarddulais and Gowerton, it’s a chance to argue again that their communities cannot absorb the scale of development proposed. For those struggling to find a home, it’s a reminder that Swansea’s housing crisis is far from solved. The next plan will shape where the city grows for the next decade. The question is whether it can succeed where the last one has so clearly stumbled.

Officials have confirmed that nutrient neutrality will be a core test for candidate sites, with only those able to demonstrate mitigation likely to survive into the final plan.

🗂️ What is LDP2?

The new plan:
Swansea is replacing its current Local Development Plan with a new version, known as LDP2, which will run to 2038.

Preferred Strategy:
Published in late 2024, it sets the vision, growth level and broad approach for where new homes and jobs should go.

Candidate sites:
More than 1,000 pieces of land have been put forward by landowners and developers. These are not allocations — they are being assessed for suitability and deliverability.

Strategic sites under review:
The big sites from the current plan are being reassessed. Some may be carried forward, others dropped, and new ones added.

Timeline:
A detailed “Deposit Plan” with confirmed sites is due in 2026. Adoption of LDP2 is expected around 2027/28.

Environmental constraints such as nutrient neutrality will be central to which sites are judged “deliverable” in the new plan.

#AffordableHousing #BarrattHomes #BayCampus #Bellway #Blaenymaes #BurryInlet #Cadle #CefnCoedHospital #ClasemontRoad #CllrPeterBlack #CoedDarcy #construction #FabianWay #FairwoodTerrace #featured #Fforestfach #GardenVillage #Gorseinon #Gowerton #homepage #housingBlueprint #housingCrisis #KeepersLodgeFarm #LDP #LDP2 #Llangyfelach #LlanmoorHomes #LocalDevelopmentPlan #M4Junction46 #Morriston #newHomes #nutrientNeutrality #PantlasauFarm #ParcMawr #PenderiRegeneration #Penllergaer #Penplas #PentrefRhostir #PersimmonHomes #planning #Pontarddulais #Portmead #SA1 #StThomas #StrategicDevelopmentAreas #SwanseaCityCentre #SwanseaCouncil #SwanseaHousing #TaweRiverside #Tycoch #Waterfront #Waunarlwydd

Nando’s eyes new restaurant at Parc Fforestfach retail park

Documents submitted to Swansea Council by LCP Properties Ltd show proposals to convert Unit 3 at the retail park from retail (Class A1) to food and drink use (Class A3). The supporting planning statement, prepared by consultants Squires Planning, names Nando’s as the intended operator.

111 covers, 40 jobs

The 360sqm unit would be fitted out with a 220sqm dining area providing 111 covers, alongside kitchen, storage and staff facilities. The restaurant would open daily from 11.30am to 10pm, employing around 40 full‑time equivalent staff.

Nando’s already operates two Swansea outlets — one in the city centre at Salubrious Place and another at Morfa Retail Park. The new branch would mark a further investment in the city.

Planning context

The application argues that the change of use would bring a vacant unit back into active use, boosting the local economy and supporting the retail park’s wider offer.

While Swansea’s Local Development Plan restricts food and drink uses at out‑of‑centre retail parks to “small scale” provision, the planning statement contends that the proposal is appropriate in scale and nature for Parc Fforestfach. It also notes that Nando’s would not want to locate another restaurant in the city centre due to competition with its existing branch.

Access and impact

The retail park is served by 1,300 parking spaces, bus stops on Pontardulais Road, and pedestrian links from surrounding roads. The planning statement says the new restaurant would not significantly increase traffic compared with other retail uses, and that noise and amenity impacts can be managed through conditions.

Current occupier

Unit 3 is currently occupied by Card Factory, despite the planning statement describing it as vacant. Swansea Bay News has contacted Card Factory for comment on the proposals and whether the retailer plans to relocate.

Next steps

Swansea Council will now consider the application. If approved, the move would see another national restaurant chain join the line‑up at Parc Fforestfach, which already includes Tesco, Boots, Next, Aldi and Costa Coffee.

Nando’s has been approached for comment.

Chicken chains flock to Swansea

Swansea is fast becoming a hotspot for chicken restaurants — here’s more of our coverage:

• Peri‑peri paradise: Swansea is home to the UK’s highest‑rated Nando’s
  A new study found Swansea’s Nando’s restaurants top the UK for customer satisfaction.
• Slim Chickens to open new Swansea restaurant
  US chain Slim Chickens is bringing its Southern‑style menu to Wind Street, creating 35 jobs.
• Wingstop set to open in Swansea
  The popular chicken wing brand is opening on Wind Street, part of its rapid UK expansion.
• 18‑hour queues as Popeyes opens in Swansea
  Hundreds queued overnight on Oxford Street for the launch of Popeyes’ first Swansea branch.

#CardFactory #chicken #featured #Fforestfach #FforestfachRetailPark #jobs #NandoS #ParcFforestfach #planningApplication #PontarddulaisRoad #restaurant #retail

Swansea piano specialists celebrate 40 years with UK’s largest piano facility

Coach House Pianos, founded in the city in 1985, has unveiled a purpose‑built base at Imperial Court, Fforestfach, which is now the UK’s most advanced centre for piano preparation, selection and education.

The family‑run business, which began in South Wales and now serves clients on every continent, says the new facility will set a global benchmark for piano craftsmanship and service.

Managing Director Sam Rusling said:

“This advanced, cutting‑edge facility ensures we continue to set the global standard of excellence in the piano industry, while delivering the same unmatched service and quality our clients have experienced for the past 40 years.”

The new headquarters houses a recital venue, private selection suites, a digital piano hub, a technician training workshop and a pioneering studio for self‑playing piano systems. It also features a collection of rare and historic instruments curated by founder Nick Rusling, including pianos once owned by royalty, musicians and political figures.

Head of Sales Dan Rusling said the milestone was particularly meaningful:

“This is especially meaningful as we celebrate having sold pianos to every continent. From installing an art case grand on the 10th floor of a Nigerian apartment block to adapting a piano for Bermuda’s subtropical climate, extraordinary detail and care goes into every delivery.”

Renowned pianist and historian Gary Branch added:

“It’s been incredible to witness a South Wales‑born business grow into one of the world’s most prestigious piano retailers, with its stunning London showroom and this new world‑class restoration facility in Swansea.”

Grand opening

The official Grand Opening and 40th Anniversary Celebration will take place at the new Swansea headquarters on Thursday 30 October 2025 at 1pm. Guests will be invited to compare five of the world’s finest concert grand pianos side by side, including models from Steinway, Bösendorfer, Yamaha and Kawai. The afternoon will also feature a keynote address from a distinguished guest speaker and a short recital by pianist Tiantian Gao

Visitors will be able to take private tours of the showrooms, workshops and historic collection, before joining a celebratory lunch alongside leading figures from the music world. The event is open to members of the press, music professionals, piano lovers and industry partners.

#Bösendorfer #Business #CoachHousePianos #digitalPianoHub #FelinFach #Fforestfach #grandPiano #headquarters #ImperialCourt #Kawai #Music #piano #recitalVenue #selfPlayingPiano #Steinway #SwanseaWestBusinessPark #TiantianGao #Yamaha

Two new super-fast EV charging hubs open near Swansea and the M4

Osprey Charging, Wales’ largest open-access rapid EV charging network, has installed eight 300kW chargers at West Swansea Retail Park in Cadle, Fforestfach, just off Junction 47 of the M4 along the A483, and a further eight at the Canolfan Gwili Centre in Hendy, close to Junction 48.

The chargers can typically add around 100 miles of range in 15 to 20 minutes, depending on the vehicle, and are compatible with every electric car on the market. They accept contactless bank cards, Apple and Google Pay, the Osprey app, RFID cards and major third-party payment methods including fleet cards.

Osprey says the new hubs are part of its UK-wide rollout of public charging infrastructure in key locations, helping to support the shift to electric vehicles ahead of the 2030 ban on new petrol and diesel cars. The company now operates six ultra-rapid charging hubs in Wales, with 58 charge points in total.

Ian Johnston, CEO of Osprey Charging, said:

“The roll-out of EV charging facilities is quickly gathering pace and we’re here to provide a reliable and rapid public charging service for all drivers, from Land’s End to John O’Groats. The new charging hubs in the Swansea area form a vital part of the re-charging network that will enable the decarbonisation of transport in the UK.”

Both sites are powered by renewable energy and have a free 24/7 helpline for customers. Osprey funds, operates and maintains the chargers, which are designed to be easy to use and accessible for all drivers.

#Cadle #CanolfanGwiliCentre #electricCarCharging #EVCharging #Fforestfach #Hendy #Junction47 #Junction48 #M4 #OspreyCharging #WestSwanseaRetailPark

Swansea’s air among UK’s worst, new study finds

Swansea has been ranked among the UK’s most polluted cities — with air quality so poor that residents are effectively inhaling the equivalent of 131 cigarettes a year, according to a new study.

The research, published by HouseFresh, uses the latest PM2.5 pollution data to calculate how many cigarettes people are indirectly “smoking” due to fine particle exposure. Swansea ties with Cardiff for the worst air in Wales, and ranks 8th in the UK overall — alongside cities like Manchester, London and Bristol.

The study uses a method developed by Berkeley Earth, which equates long-term exposure to PM2.5 pollution with cigarette intake. Swansea’s average PM2.5 level in 2024 was 10.3 µg/m³, well above the World Health Organization’s recommended limit of 5 µg/m³.

A simplified measure vs. statutory monitoring

While the HouseFresh study offers a striking visual comparison, it’s based on a single annual average for PM2.5, designed to raise awareness rather than meet regulatory standards. Swansea Council’s approach is more technical and comprehensive — tracking seven key pollutants under the Air Quality (Wales) Regulations 2000, including nitrogen dioxide, sulphur dioxide, PM10, carbon monoxide, benzene, lead and 1,3-butadiene.

The council operates five automatic monitoring stations across the city, with real-time data available via its air quality dashboard. As of today, all stations are showing green status, indicating low pollution levels — a reminder that daily exposure can vary significantly, and that local improvements may not yet be reflected in long-term averages.

Council data shows mixed picture

Swansea Council’s 2024 Air Quality Progress Report confirms that PM2.5 levels remain a concern, particularly near busy roads and junctions. While most monitoring sites meet national standards, the report notes that 89 locations saw increases in pollution compared to 2022, with one site in Graig Trewyddfa recording the highest nitrogen dioxide levels in the city.

The council has declared several Air Quality Management Areas, including Hafod, Sketty and Fforestfach, due to long-term breaches of nitrogen dioxide limits. These areas are all close to major traffic routes, highlighting the impact of vehicle emissions on local air quality.

Public awareness campaign launched

In response to growing concerns, Swansea Council has launched a new city-wide awareness campaign in partnership with Swansea University, aimed at helping residents protect themselves and reduce their contribution to poor air quality.

Information posters have appeared at bus stops across the city, offering practical tips such as standing further back from the roadside when walking and switching off car engines when stationary. The campaign also highlights indoor air risks, including poor ventilation in homes.

David Hopkins, Cabinet Member for Corporate Service and Performance, said:

“Part of the Council’s responsibility is to monitor air quality in the city and look at ways to combat air pollution as well as promote healthier communities. The latest study we are working on in partnership with Swansea University aims at providing the public with a series of helpful tips that assist in lessening the impact of poor air quality in your community.”

Researchers are working with the council to better understand public attitudes and behaviours around air pollution, with the goal of encouraging small, everyday changes that can lead to cleaner air and healthier communities.

Centre for Cities: emissions and air quality not always linked

A separate analysis by Centre for Cities, published in February, shows that Swansea is an outlier when it comes to greenhouse gas emissions. While most UK cities have relatively low per capita emissions, Swansea’s figures are skewed by the presence of Port Talbot Steelworks, which contributes heavily to industrial output.

The report argues that air quality and emissions are separate issues — and that cities like Swansea can have high pollution levels even if their carbon footprint is relatively low. It calls for targeted policies to tackle local pollutants, such as vehicle emissions and wood-burning stoves, alongside broader climate measures.

Related stories on air quality, environment and clean-up efforts

Landmark water review recommends overhaul of Welsh regulation
Published July 2025: A major review calls for stronger oversight of water companies and pollution controls — with implications for urban air and water quality in Swansea and beyond.

Seabin installed at Swansea Marina to tackle marine litter
Published June 2025: A floating bin designed to collect plastic and debris from the water is now operating in Swansea Marina — part of wider efforts to clean up the city’s environment.

Council looks to improve air quality around schools in Carmarthenshire
Published May 2025: Carmarthenshire Council launches new measures to reduce pollution near schools, including traffic restrictions and awareness campaigns.

Swansea University academic appointed chair of Welsh Government clean air advisory panel
Published April 2025: Professor Ceri Davies will lead the panel advising ministers on how to tackle air pollution across Wales — with Swansea’s urban hotspots among the priority areas.

#airPollution #airQualityManagementSwansea #CardiffAirQuality #CentreForCitiesSwanseaEmissions #cigaretteEquivalentAirPollution #Fforestfach #Hafod #HouseFreshAirQualityStudy #Morriston #nitrogenDioxideSwansea #PM25SwanseaData #pollution #pollutionLevelsWales #Sketty #Swansea #SwanseaAirHealthImpact #SwanseaAirPollution #SwanseaCigaretteEquivalentPollution #SwanseaCouncilAirQualityReport #SwanseaEnvironmentNews #SwanseaPublicHealthEnvironment #SwanseaUrbanPollution #trafficPollutionSwansea #UKAirPollutionRankings #UKCitiesWorstAirQuality #WalesPM25Exposure #WelshGovernmentAirQuality

Serial offender jailed after driving stolen van into Fforestfach e-bike shop

Matthew Morgan, 40, has been sentenced to 40 months in prison after pleading guilty to theft, criminal damage and stealing a motor vehicle in connection with the incident at Uprise Bikes on May 12.

Morgan stole a DHL delivery van, damaging several vehicles belonging to another business before using the van to smash through the front of the Uprise Electric store on Kingsway, Swansea West Industrial Estate. He then stole two electric bikes from inside the premises.

The break-in, described by the store as “aggressive”, occurred in the early hours and was captured on CCTV. Although the suspect was masked, detectives were able to identify Morgan as responsible for both the vehicle theft and the forced entry.

Detective Constable Richard Olsen, of South Wales Police, said: “Matthew Morgan is a repeat offender who continues to show wilful disregard for the law. Thankfully, the security measures at the premises worked as expected, and the incident was captured on CCTV, albeit with the suspect being masked. Thanks to the hard work of detectives, Matthew Morgan was identified as responsible for stealing the van and then subsequently forcing his way into the store during the night. With this prison term, the people of Swansea will fortunately not have to tolerate Matthew Morgan’s criminal behaviour for the foreseeable future.”

Morgan was previously charged alongside Natalie Squibb, 37, from Portmead, who was also arrested and charged with burglary following the incident.

The store, which opened in April 2024, temporarily closed after the raid but reopened the next day, posting on social media: “We’re back—and more fired up than ever. The coffee’s on, and the good vibes are flowing. We’ve still got some clean-up ahead, but nothing’s stopping us. The Uprise crew is back and ready to roll. Let’s ride!”

#BlaenYMaes #burglary #electricBike #Fforestfach #ramRaid #SouthWalesPolice #theft #vehicleTheft

Parts of Swansea to get electric ‘safety inspection’ visits

The checks, which affect properties in Fforestfach, Manselton, Penlan, Treboeth, and Waunarlwydd will take place from this week.

National Grid say that domestic and small business customers in the SA5 postcode will receive visits from approved contractors to check that service termination points inside properties are working as they should.

The service termination point, also known as a cut-out, is the indoor location where the main incoming electricity service cable and fuse is situated, in most cases close to the electricity meter. The cut-out is situated in a meter cabinet on the outside of most modern properties built since the 1980s, though it could be located within the property adjacent to the electricity meter or the customer’s consumer unit.

Inspectors will visually inspect National Grid and energy suppliers’ equipment and record basic details. No disassembly work will be carried out and customers’ power supplies will not be interrupted while inspections occur.

National Grid say they are aiming to complete 400,000 inspections of cut-outs in homes and small businesses across the Midlands, South West and South Wales every year in a rolling programme over the next 20 years.

It has an Ofgem licence obligation to carry out asset inspections to ensure cut-outs at low voltage metered properties are operating safely.

Richard Brady, National Grid’s Policy Engineer heading the inspection programme, said: “The UK is recognised internationally as having one of the most resilient and safe energy systems and this inspection programme underlines our commitment to the highest safety standards.

“Inspectors will visually examine cut-outs to check they are working as they should, taking photos and notes for our records. In the unlikely event of a defective cut-out being found, NGED engineers will be sent to carry out repairs at no cost to the customer.

“Visits will also be an opportunity to confirm what types of low-carbon technologies (LCT) are connected to our network, for example electric vehicle chargers and solar panels, to help our planning for future load growth on the network, and enable LCT items to be connected quicker in the future as we will have records of the cut-out asset on site and its condition.

“These are important safety visits but we understand they could be inconvenient for customers and apologise in advance if this is the case.”

Inspectors will be from a company called Calisen and will be clearly identifiable as working for NGED. They will be able to present ID and authorisation to enter properties.

Customers will have the option of taking their own photographs of their cut-out and meter and sending them to National Grid who will decide if a follow-up visit is needed.

#electricity #Fforestfach #Manselton #NationalGrid #Penlan #Treboeth #Waunarlwydd

Iceland’s Food Warehouse opens in Fforestfach

The highly anticipated new store, situated at Parc Fforestfach on Portarddulais Road in Swansea opened to the public on 10 June 2025, bringing with it an estimated 21 additional jobs to the local community. 

To celebrate the grand opening, The Food Warehouse’s Fforestfach store gave away £1,500 worth of store vouchers to the first 150 customers through the doors. 

Raffle tickets were also given to every customer in the queue before 7:45am on opening morning, which saw three winners take home a Tower Panini Presser and seven lucky customers won a Tower Air Fryer. 

Five other shoppers also won the chance to take part in a 90 second supermarket sweep-style trolley dash around the entire empty store, filling their trolleys for free. 

Floyd Vaughan, Store Manager at The Food Warehouse Fforestfach, said: “We’re so pleased to welcome shoppers to our brand new The Food Warehouse store this morning. Everyone was so excited for the grand opening – people were even in the queue from 4am! 

“If you haven’t been down to visit just yet, make sure to check out our brand-new store and get your hands on some unmissable deals.” 

Kristian Barrett, Group Retail Director at Iceland Foods, added: “We’re thrilled to have opened our new Fforestfach store, ensuring even more local residents can get their hands on market-leading deals, alongside a brilliant range of frozen, grocery and fresh foods.”  

The new The Food Warehouse store in Parc Fforestfach will offer multi-buy offers, like 3 for £3, 3 for £5 and 3 for £10 deals, alongside exclusive The Food Warehouse ranges such as Slimming World, Cathedral City, TGI Fridays and more.  

Customers can also find further offers on the Iceland Bonus Card app. 

The store will be open from 8am – 9pm Monday-Saturday, and from 10am – 4pm on Sundays.   

#Business #Fforestfach #ParcFforestfach #retail #supermarket #Swansea #TheFoodWarehouse

New food store to open in Parc Fforestfach

Iceland Foods has announced it will be opening the doors to a brand-new The Food Warehouse store in Parc Fforestfach, Swansea on 10th June, expanding its product offering and giving local residents an-all new shopping experience in the process.

The store will be situated at Parc Fforestfach on Pontarddulais Road in Swansea and will officially open to the public on 10 June 2025, bringing with it an estimated 21 additional jobs to the local community.

To celebrate the store opening, The Food Warehouse say they will be giving away £1,500 worth of The Food Warehouse vouchers to the first 150 customers through the doors, plus a free tray of Ferrero Rocher to the first 200 customers through the checkouts.

With an Iceland store already located at Parc Cwmdu on Carmarthen Road, the frozen food chain say the launch of a new The Food Warehouse store in the area will ensure that even more local residents have access to market-leading deals and big-brand products.

The Food Warehouse was introduced in 2014, with stores often double the size of traditional Iceland stores, offering a much larger range of goods and bigger packs for even better value. The stores are designed to look like a warehouse, with wide shopping aisles and large spaces – offering the perfect environment for customers to buy their favourite products.

Kristian Barrett, Group Retail Director at Iceland Foods, said: “We’re very excited to be opening our new store in Fforestfach ensuring even more local residents can get their hands on market-leading deals, alongside a brilliant range of frozen, grocery and fresh foods.

“We’re hard at work getting everything set up and ready to go and we can’t wait to open our doors to the local community.”

The store opening also coincides with Iceland’s 10% discount for all customers over 60, available every Tuesday across stores.

The Fforestfach store will be open Monday to Sunday from 10th June onwards from 8am until 9pm, Monday to Saturday, and 10am until 4pm on Sundays.

#Fforestfach #foodDrink #Iceland #ParcFforestfach #retail #supermarket #Swansea #TheFoodWarehouse

New Tesco Express opens on Carmarthen Road in Fforestfach

The new store, at 910 Carmarthen Road near Ravenhill Park, opened its doors for the first time at 10am on Thursday the 15th of May.

Karl May, the store’s new manager, said: “We are absolutely delighted to open our new Tesco Express and begin serving the local community. Our shelves will feature a wide range of fresh produce, value-packed meal deals, and delicious bakery treats.

“We will also be welcoming 14 new colleagues to the store, with 9 being new to Tesco. We are also thrilled to be part of the Tesco Stronger Starts grant scheme, which provides essential funding to schools to support the health and wellbeing of children.”

Local schools and community groups are invited to apply for community funding through Tesco Stronger Starts, the retailer’s blue token voting scheme which sees three local projects voted on by customers in store every three months, with first place awarded up to £1,500, second place up to £1,000 and third place up to £500.

The new Express store will also participate in the Community Food Connection scheme, which redistributes surplus food to charities and community groups from every Tesco store at the end of each day.

Since its launch in 2016, Tesco says its Community Food Connection Scheme has donated more than 145 million meals to charities across the UK.  This scheme is run in partnership with food redistribution charity FareShare, with more than one million meals’ worth of food donated across the country each month.  

#CarmarthenRoad #Fforestfach #retail #supermarket #Swansea #Tesco

Fforestfach man jailed after stealing vehicle and injuring owner

45-year-old Stuart Black, from Cadle, Fforestfach, entered the vehicle while the owner was carrying out maintenance upon it on Glebe Road, Loughor.

He then attempted to drive off, prompting the owner to attempt to stop him from doing so.

Black then crashed the vehicle, causing injuries to the owner, and then continued down the street before crashing into another car before making off on foot.

Black was tracked down by PC Shepherd and PC Hill and arrested close to the scene.

He later pleaded guilty to causing serious injury by dangerous driving, driving whilst disqualified, driving without insurance and aggravated vehicle-taking. He also pleaded guilty to assault after initially pleading not guilty.

He has been sentenced to three years in prison and disqualified from driving for three and a half years.

Sergeant Stuart Williams said:

“Stuart Black is an opportunist thief who saw a car running and decided to try his luck with stealing it. In doing so, the owner has attempted to stop Black in the act, and sadly ended up having to go to hospital as a result.

“This was an incident which happened entirely because of Stuart Black’s criminal actions. The victim was fortunate not to be more seriously injured, but this was nonetheless a very shocking and distressing experience for them.”

[Lead image: South Wales Police]

#assault #carTheft #Fforestfach #SouthWalesPolice

Fforestfach man jailed after sending sexual messages to what he thought was a 14-year-old girl

34-year-old Guy Brigdale, sent the messages in January when he tried to arrange a meeting with the girl at Llanelli’s Parc Trostre for oral sex.

The ‘girl’ was in fact a decoy from a paedophile hunters group, and when Grigdale failed to show up at the meeting place, they tracked him down near to the River Loughor.

In an attempt to escape the group, Brigdale swam across the river, but was later arrested after being found hiding in a ditch.

Swansea Crown Court heard that Brigdale had 13 previous convictions for 20 offences, including being jailed for three years and put on the sex-offenders register for life in 2017 after contacting a young girl on Facebook and trying to get her to send him sexually explicit photographs. 

Brigdale pleaded guilty to attempting to engage in sexual communication with a child, attempting to cause/incite a girl aged 13-15 to engage in sexual activity, attempting to cause a child aged 13-15 to watch/look at an image of sexual activity, attempting to meet a child under the age of 16 following grooming and breaching a Sexual Harm Prevention Order.

Judge Catherine Richards said Brigdale was a dangerous offender who posed a significant risk of committing further offences. For the combined offences, Brigdale has been handed an extended 12-year sentence. He will remain on the sex-offenders register for life.

Detective Sergeant Samuel Stanway from South Wales Police said: “The messages sent by Guy Brigdale, to an individual he believed was a child, were abhorrent.

“There is no place for anyone who willingly engages in sexual communication with a child in our society. It is very fortunate that this wasn’t a real child involved in the conversation, as they could have been posed a great danger by someone like Guy Brigdale.

“The right place for him is prison, as is highlighted by this lengthy sentence.”

#ChildAbuse #Fforestfach #Llanelli #ParcTrostre #SouthWalesPolice #Swansea

Two arrests after ramraid on Fforestfach e-bike store

The “aggressive break-in” took place in the early hours of Monday morning at the Uprise Bikes Electric store on Kingsway at the Swansea West Industrial Estate in Fforestfach.

A spokesperson for South Wales Police said: “A man and a woman from Swansea have been charged after a van was deliberately driven into a Fforestfach business premises in the early hours of Monday morning before two electric bikes were stolen.

“40-year-old Matthew Morgan, from Blaenymaes, has been charged with burglary, theft of a motor vehicle and two counts of criminal damage.

“37-year-old Natalie Squibb, from Portmead, has been charged with burglary.

“Both have been remanded and will appear in Swansea Magistrates Court today.”

The Uprise Electric store, which opened in April 2024, temporaily closed on Monday following the raid, with the store saying on social media: “The Uprise Electric store will be temporarily closed due to an aggressive break-in attempt in the early hours of this morning.

“All security systems acted as expected and their plans were largely foiled but while the police do their job we need to keep the store closed.

“All customers picking up bikes will be contacted shortly, and don’t forget that if you need any help our Uplands store is open as usual.”

The store reopened the following day saying: “We’re back—and more fired up than ever. The coffee’s on, and the good vibes are flowing. We’ve still got some clean-up ahead, but nothing’s stopping us. The Uprise crew is back and ready to roll. Let’s ride!”

#burglary #eBike #Fforestfach #SouthWalesPolice #Swansea

Michelin-starred chef to help serve up the ‘Best ever pub pie in Wales’

Tom Shepherd is sharing his secret pie recipe for the first time ever, giving Marston’s customers up and down the country the chance to enjoy a new version of a favourite pub dish, inspired by his banquet-worthy original.

The Best Ever Pub Pie will be available to order in over 100 Marston’s pubs, including 17 in Wales, for 12 weeks, from 17 April.

In South West Wales it will be available at The Mary Dillwyn in Fforestfach, Swansea, The Pheasant in Bridgend, Rose and Crown in Porthcawl and Lost Coins in Withybush, Haverfordwest.

The triple-layered pie is filled with hand-pulled beef cheek, caramelised onions, and roast potatoes, all encased in a luxurious beef fat shortcrust pastry. The pie will be served with seasonal vegetables, creamy mashed potato and a rich red wine sauce. 

Tom Shepherd is an award-winning chef, restaurateur, and entrepreneur and owns the Staffordshire based, Michelin-starred restaurant Upstairs by Tom Shepherd. Tom appeared on Great British Menu in 2023, winning the main course round and the chance to cook his pie at the coveted banquet.

Tom has been working closely with the Marston’s development team to make sure that the pie is as close as possible in flavour and appearance as his iconic dish.

Chef Tom Shepherd said: “I’m so excited to be partnering with Marston’s to give as many people as possible the chance to try my secret recipe. I have been asked to share the recipe a lot, but it hasn’t felt like the right partnership, until now!

“For me, when I think of the pub, I think of a good pie, so I was delighted to have the chance to work with the Marston’s team to bring this pie to life. I can’t wait to see what people think. The Best Ever Pub Pie will only be on the menu for 12 weeks, so don’t miss out!”

Claire Robertson, Director of Operations at Marston’s, said: “Pies are some of the most popular dishes across our menus, but we wanted to do something extra special and when Tom Shepherd agreed to share his recipe, we were thrilled.

“We’ve worked really hard together to create the most delicious dish possible, it’s rich, decadent and absolutely delicious. We can’t wait to introduce The Best Ever Pub Pie to customers across the UK, giving as many people as possible the chance to try my recipe from the 17th of April.”

#chef #Fforestfach #foodDrink #GreatBritishMenu #Haverfordwest #MarstonSBrewery #MichelinStar #pies #Porthcawl #pub #restaurant #Swansea #TomShepherd #Withybush

Retail park in Fforestfach to be sold as part of multi-million pound property portfolio

The multi-million pound retail portfolio includes eight fully-tenanted properties in Leamington Spa, Hinkley, Swansea and Leicester which bring in £224,905 a year in rent.

Silverwing Retail Park in Fforestfach, Swansea has three tenants including Majestic Wine Warehouses Ltd, American Golf and Domino’s.

Prestige jewellers Pragnell occupies 23-25 Market Street in Leicester and Ember Homes, Reynolds Interiors Ltd and Howden Insurance are at 1060-164 The Parade, Leamington Spa. Finally, Armstrong Fitness Ltd is the tenant at 52 Castle Street, Hinckley.

Tom Bromwich, managing partner at Bromwich Hardy, who are handling the sale said: “This is an attractive portfolio for investors looking for secure returns in an uncertain economic environment.

“We are anticipating strong interest in what is a compelling offer providing a significant rent roll featuring household names.”

#Business #Fforestfach #Property #retail #Swansea

Cyclist seriously injured after late night crash

The incident which involved a red Renault Clio and a bicycle happened just after midnight in the early hours of this morning (12 March).

A spokesperson for South Wales Police said: “We are appealing to the public following a serious collision between a car and a cyclist which happened in Swansea in the early hours of this morning.

“The 55 year-old male cyclist remains in hospital with serious injuries following the incident which happened just after midnight on Cwmbach Road, Fforestfach.

“The 18 year-old male who was driving the red Renault Clio involved in the collision is continuing to assist officers.

“People living in or travelling through the area are asked to check their private CCTV or dashcams for footage of the collision or the moments leading up to it.

“Anybody with information is urged to make contact – give reference *2500078488.”

(Lead image: Google Maps)

#CwmbachRoad #Fforestfach #RoadTrafficAccident #SouthWalesPolice