Free lawn bowls community days aim to encourage ethnic minorities to give the game a try

Organised by Swansea Council’s community safety team, the sessions are aimed at encouraging people from all backgrounds – in particular ethnic backgrounds – to start playing lawn bowls.

At present there is almost no representation from ethnic groups throughout the Swansea and wider lawn bowls community.

This scheme aims to break down cultural barriers and help form links throughout communities to forge better relationships and understanding.

The first session is being held at Sketty bowls green this coming Tuesday (May 6) at 2pm.

Cllr Alyson Anthony, Swansea Council’s Cabinet Member for Well-being, said: “I’s encourage all members of our communities to attend and support these sessions.

“Many of our bowls clubs are the heart of the local community, so they’re an ideal place to socialise in a relaxed positive environment. I hope many people take advantage of this wonderful opportunity.”

Each session will run for two hours during afternoons or evenings at bowls greens throughout Swansea.

During each session various Safer Swansea partner agencies will be present to undertake further engagement work.

All equipment will be provided and there is no dress code, although flat soled shoes such as trainers must be worn.

Paul Evans, Swanea Council Community Safety Coordinator, said: “Many lawn bowls clubs throughout Swansea are struggling financially and are short of members. This scheme will assist with both these issues.

“Bowls is a very communal sport and promotes teamwork and good sportsmanship.

“It’s also an outdoor sport so players benefit from being outside whilst taking part in mild exercise and competition.

“Bowls is a sport that’s open to all ages and abilities, it’s easy to learn and requires very little costly equipment.”

#CllrAlysonAnthony #community #CommunitySafety #lawnBowls #Swansea #SwanseaCouncil

CWOT teams clean-up Swansea’s streets

Swansea Council’s CWOT – or their less snappily titled Cleansing Ward Operative Teams – have been helping residents keep their communities looking neat and tidy, visiting more than 1,000 weeding and litter hotspots over the last year.

The popular team has visited every community targeting overgrowth, uncovering footpaths that have succumbed to nature, as well as clearing litter and ensuring street and road signs are clean and can be read more easily.

The Council launched the CWOT initiative more than two years ago so that teams could carry out enhanced cleansing work that are not part of the regular cleansing activities operating in the city.

The council says it forms part of its continuing commitment to the people of Swansea, working side by side with them to keep their communities clean by responding positively to their priorities.

The public play their part by reporting issues to their local councillor who then contacts the CWOT service. Every ward in Swansea has received multiple visits over the last year.

Sites tackled in the last year have resulted in freshly cleaned pavements and steps, cut-back of overgrowth and hundreds of tonnes of vegetation removed, along with lanes and alleys between houses and off the beaten track being brought back to life.

Cyril Anderson, Swansea Council’s Cabinet Member for Community Services, said: “The CWOT service is a real asset to the Council, going above and beyond expectations to keep our communities neat and tidy.

“The work the CWOT do to spruce up neighbourhoods makes everyone feel better about the place where they live and encourages others to play their part too by not dropping litter or leaving dog mess behind when they’re out with their pet.”

He added: “The CWOT initiative is all part of the Council’s £2m a year commitment to tackling litter and fly-tipping in our neighbourhoods. Local councillors supported by local residents are our eyes and ears for the CWOT initiative, and the feedback so far has been extremely positive.”

The council added that if you think there’s an area in your ward the CWOT can assist with, then let your local councillor know so that they can submit the work to the team for completion on their next visit.

#CllrCyrilAnderson #CWOT #Environment #litter #Swansea #SwanseaCouncil

Plans to be revealed for Gowerton BMX track and improved Ynystawe skatepark

Organised by Swansea Council, workshops have been arranged for Tuesday May 6 when experts from Curve Studio will be on hand to unveil their ideas and listen to feedback.

The plans are part of a £2.8m council investment in wheel sports facilities throughout the city.

A BMX-focused facility is proposed for the Elba sports complex in Gowerton, with the skatepark in Ynystawe Park set for major improvements.

The Gowerton workshop will last from 4.30pm to 6pm at Gowerton Comprehensive School on Cecil Road.

Ynystawe’s workshop will take place from 7pm to 8.30pm at Ynystawe Cricket and Football Club on Park Road.

Cllr Robert Francis-Davies, Swansea Council’s Cabinet Member for Investment, Regeneration and Tourism, said: “The proposals for the Elba and Ynystawe Park are part of a major investment across Swansea which means most people won’t have to travel more than two miles to reach a high-quality facility for skateboarding, BMXing and other wheel sports.

“Feedback from wheel sports enthusiasts and local communities is crucial to our plans though because we want to develop facilities that meet people’s needs and aspirations.

“The workshops for the Elba and Ynystawe Park proposals are a great opportunity to help influence the size, design and character of these sites.”

The council says an upgraded neighbourhood skate park is now available for use at Coed Bach Park in Pontarddulais and work is ongoing to make improvements to the existing skate park at Parc Melin Mynach in Gorseinon.

Other sites already announced for neighbourhood skate park improvements include a skate plaza at Victoria Park and neighbourhood skate parks at both Mynydd Newydd in Penlan and the Phoenix Centre in Townhill. There are also plans for a new pump track for novice and junior BMXers at Melin Mynach and the existing pump track at Clyne Valley will be undergoing a refurbishment.

#BMX #ElbaSportsCentre #Gowerton #SkatePark #Skateboarding #SwanseaCouncil #Ynystawe #YnystawePark

City centre ‘living building’ scheme set for late summer finish

A new video, shot by Calan Films on behalf of the Welsh Government, shows the considerable progress that’s being made on site at the former Woolworths building and a new adjoining 13-storey tower.

Located between Oxford Street and The Kingsway, the scheme is being led by Hacer Developments.

The development includes an urban-style greenhouse set over four floors, an education facility featuring an aquaponic system along with rooftop gardens, wildflower boarders and green spaces

Nine floors of apartments are to be managed by housing association, Pobl with close to 32,000 square feet of commercial floor space for businesses and retail.

The eco-development also features a landscaped courtyard and a bio-solar roof with ambient loop heating and sustainable drainage systems.

Once complete, the development will accommodate up to 500 people, thanks to the jobs and homes it will create. It’ll be powered by solar energy and an air source heat system.

Carwyn Davies, Managing Director of Hacer Developments, said: “These are unprecedented times for Swansea city centre with so much funding being invested by the council, the Welsh Government and the private sector.

“This is important because city centres now need more people living and working there to create the numbers needed to support city centre businesses and encourage more shops and other businesses to open up in future.

“Our scheme is aimed at creating a new way of urban working and living – one that connects residents and workers to nature. This has been proven to benefit health and happiness.

“The building will also be powered in a renewable way that will help cut Swansea’s carbon footprint and fight climate change.”

Cllr Rob Stewart, Swansea Council Leader, said: “Swansea’s £1bn transformation is continuing at pace to create more jobs for local people, support local businesses and raise Swansea’s profile across the UK and beyond for investment.

“Swansea Arena has been completed, the Palace Theatre building has reopened, the Albert Hall has been transformed, and the 71/72 Kingsway office development will soon be open with a number of tenants confirmed and advanced discussions with many other tenants ongoing.

“It’s fantastic news that the groundbreaking, innovative ‘living building’ scheme led by Hacer Developments will be following suit by the end of the summer.

“Our new ‘Y Storfa’ community services hub at the former BHS unit on Oxford Street is due for completion by the end of the year too, and work will soon start to transform Castle Square into a greener destination at the heart of the city centre.”

The ‘living building’ is being funded by a mixture of private sector funding and funding from the Welsh Government’s Innovative Housing Programme, Pobl and the Development Bank of Wales.

#biophilicBuilding #construction #Hacer #livingBuilding #Pobl #Swansea #SwanseaCouncil

Council announces depot relocation plans

Swansea Council’s Pipehouse wharf depot is located next to the St David’s student accommodation on the junction of New Cut Road and Morfa Road. It is used as a vehicle storage and refuelling depot for its waste and recycling vehicles.

The Home Farm depot is within Singleton Park and is used primarily by the council’s parks and cleansing teams.

The council has announced plans to vacate both depots and relocate to a new facility on Alberto Road in the Enterprise Park.

The Enterprise Park location was formally used by beauty and cosmetics company Alberto-Culver, who pulled out of the 18.75 acre site in 2012 following its take-over by conglomerate Unilever.

The council sold its freehold interest in the Alberto-Culver site in 2015 to the Dr Organic Group, a South Wales-based cosmetics company founded by local entrepreneurs Steve Quinn and Fred Whitcomb.

The council now plans to share the location with Dr Organic following its decision to reacquire the site.

A spokesperson from Swansea Council said: “We have agreed to acquire a site at Alberto Road on the Enterprise Park which will allow not only the relocation out of the current Pipehouse Wharf and Home Farm depots but also enables its ongoing use by Dr Organics, a long standing and important Swansea business.

“No decision has been taken about the future use of Pipehouse Wharf and Home Farm and it will take some time to vacate these sites to ensure services are not disrupted.

“We are talking to staff at these sites to minimise any impact.”

The council has previously mooted plans for redeveloping its Home Farm depot site in Singleton Park, which also includes a Grade II listed farmhouse.

A cabinet report in 2019 said there was an opportunity a heritage-based development at Home Farm, including 42 houses, to safeguard the site – although none of the parkland itself would be touched.

The proposal sparked fierce debate and opposition and was eventually put on hold.

Coastal Housing has previously expressed an interest in the council’s Pipehouse Wharf depot, proposing a development of 150 homes on the 4.33-acre River Tawe site in 2017.

These plans were not progressed however, although nearby regeneration has continued, particularly with the construction of the new True Student student accommodation blocks further along Morfa Road.

#DrOrganic #EnterprisePark #HomeFarm #PipehouseWharf #SingletonPark #Swansea #SwanseaCouncil

Work complete at Pontarddulais skatepark

Swansea Council says the new facility is part of its commitment to invest £2.8m in neighbourhood skate parks across the city by working in close partnership with local communities and a specialist design company called Curve Studio.

Coloured predominantly in red and green, the new concrete facility at Coed Bach Park replaces an old metal ramp that had been in place there beforehand. It includes two back-to-back mini ramps, a volcano, a pump roller, a seating area and a soft landscaped space.

Work has also now started to make improvements to the existing skate park at Parc Melin Mynach in Gorseinon.

Council plans mean most people won’t have to travel more than two miles to reach a redeveloped skateboarding or wheel sports facility once the investment is complete.

Cllr Robert Francis-Davies, Swansea Council’s Cabinet Member for Investment, Regeneration and Tourism, said: “Skateboarding, BMXing and other wheel sports are very popular in Swansea, but many of our young people have had to look elsewhere for quality facilities to pursue their hobbies in recent years because the standard of the facilities here hasn’t been good enough.

“This is why we’re investing close to £3m in neighbourhood skate parks across the city because it will help meet demand while also raising Swansea’s profile as one of the UK’s best destinations for wheel sports.

“The completion of the upgrade work at Coed Bach Park is one example of many other schemes that will soon be following suit in other parts of the city to benefit young people in all our communities.

“It follows-on from our major investment in playgrounds throughout Swansea in a boost for local families and young children.”

Other sites already announced for skate park improvements include a skate plaza at Victoria Park, as well as neighbourhood skate parks at Mynydd Newydd in Penlan and the Phoenix Centre in Townhill. There are also plans for a new pump track for novice and junior BMXers at Melin Mynach and the existing pump track at Clyne Valley will be undergoing a refurbishment.

#BMX #CurveStudio #Pontarddulais #SkatePark #Skateboarding #SwanseaCouncil

New murals greet city arena visitors

Two large-scale murals have been added to the interior walls of the Copr Bay South car park, used by thousands who enjoy visiting the Amy Dillwyn Park and events at the Swansea Building Society Arena.

One depicts rock duo Royal Blood, the first paid-for ticketed band to play in the arena after its 2022 opening had been celebrated with the Housewarming, starring Welsh emerging and established bands. The House Party is now an annual event to raise monies for Music Venue Trust, celebrate grassroots music in the city, as well as the anniversary of the venue’s test events.

The other celebrates former Swansea novelist, social benefactor and industrialist Amy Dillwyn. The popular park on top of the car park is named after her.

The works – each more than 2.5m tall and around 8.5m long – were designed and painted by South Wales-based graffiti artist RMER in conjunction with Swansea business Oner Signs and Swansea Council.

The aim of the work is to improve the car park’s appearance, enhancing the experience of car park users and to create art that reflect the immediate area.

It’s designed to create a sense of excitement and anticipation for visitors to Swansea’s new and established visitor attractions.

Council cabinet member Elliott King said: “These eye-catching new pieces of public art make a visit to the park, arena and city centre even more enjoyable.

“They’re striking, attractive and reflect old and new Swansea in an engaging, creative manner.”

RMER said: “I loved working with Oner Signs and the council on this exciting commission.

“We came together to create something site-specific for the arena and park, both really great additions to the city.”

Ronny Oner, of Oner Signs, said: “We featured Royal Blood because their performance was the first paid-for ticketed event in the arena.

“So many people who park here will be going to a gig here so we thought they’d be excited by this image. It’s also a lasting reminder of the first headliner of many great gigs at the venue.

“Our painting of a modern actress playing Amy Dillwyn also works really well – and is a reminder that there’s a Purple Plaque in Amy’s honour in the park.

“We hope that our art helps to make arriving here – to visit the park or an event – a memorable part of the day.”

Elsewhere in the Copr Bay development, the council says it is working alongside contractors to complete the Copr Bay North car park and other finishing works. This follows the scheme’s original contractor going into administration.

#AmyDillwynPark #CllrElliottKing #CoprBay #mural #RMER #Swansea #SwanseaArena #SwanseaCouncil

Praise for ‘happy and positive’ Mayhill school

Pupils at Sea View Primary School feel safe and happy, they engage in lessons well and have positive attitudes to school life, inspectors have found.

Leaders and staff have high expectations for pupils’ wellbeing and learning and build positive relationships with families, creating a nurturing environment so that members of the school community feel valued and supported.

A team from Estyn visited the school earlier this year and have now published their report.

Other highlights include praise for the school’s purposeful curriculum that takes account of pupils’ different needs and cultural backgrounds as well as the range of interesting activities to develop pupils’ engagement and independence in their learning.

Most pupils make good progress in their literacy, maths and digital skills.

Across the school, adults and pupils develop their use of British Sign Language (BSL) effectively and this helps all those at the school with hearing impairment to join in with all aspects of school life.

The school’s provision for pupils with additional learning needs (ALN) is effective and skilled staff use a range of beneficial interventions successfully to help pupils with ALN make good progress towards their individual targets

The report adds: “The headteacher is an inspiring leader who establishes a strong team ethos where everyone works together to enhance the learning experiences for all pupils.

“Leaders use a range of evaluation processes well to identify the school’s strengths and areas for development. They work closely with teachers and governors to gather information about the progress the school makes towards its improvement priorities. The governing body provides strong support to the school.

“Leaders develop effective partnerships with other professionals to signpost support for families experiencing poverty and this helps develop successful community partnerships.”

Headteacher Julie Dunn said: “I’m so pleased that the inspectors from Estyn have recognised the happy and supportive environment here at Sea View and the role that all our pupils, staff and families play in achieving this. I hope they are as proud as I am with this report.”

Swansea Council’s Cabinet Member for Education, Robert Smith, said: “Congratulations to all Sea View Primary on a very good inspection report which reflects the great work being done by all at the school.”

#education #Estyn #Mayhill #SeaViewPrimary #Swansea #SwanseaCouncil

Council to trial soft plastic kerbside recycling scheme in Swansea

Currently, if residents want to recycle soft plastic items, their only option is to take them to their local supermarket, where recycling facilities are generally provided.

The council say the trial in Swansea will take place across 15 communities that have their household waste collected on a Tuesday and a Wednesday and includes around 20,000 homes. The trial will take place between April and December. 

In Swansea, the council say that residents already recycle around 70% of their household waste. Surveys have also shown that a large proportion of black bag waste is made up of soft plastic items.

During the next few weeks, residents in trial areas will be provided with a supply of blue recycling sacks, along with an information leaflet explaining all about the trial.

Cyril Anderson, Swansea Council’s Cabinet Member for Community, said: “Swansea is currently performing very well in terms of recycling, with the majority of residents making use of all the kerbside recycling services, as well as putting out limited numbers of black bags.

“We know there’s an appetite for residents to recycle more of their household waste, particularly soft plastic items like carrier bags – which currently get put in black bag waste.

“The trial will allow the council to understand how plastic bags and wrapping can be included in existing kerbside recycling collections in the future.

“Households included in trial areas will get a delivery of blue coloured bags and information about the scheme.

“We have organised the trial so that all different types of accommodation are included, such as terraced streets and housing developments. This will give us a better understanding of the issues which arise from the trial in terms of collections.

“Ideally, our aim is for households to have the opportunity to reduce their black bag waste even further and boost our overall recycling rate.”

#kerbsideCollection #Recycling #softPlastic #Swansea #SwanseaCouncil

Visit to explore new future for landmark Swansea building

Plans for the building include 30 new apartments and new commercial units, thanks to a project led by local non-profit Beacon Cymru in partnership with contractors Easyliving Ltd.

In the building’s main elevation facing Worcester Place and the castle, a new commercial unit over two storeys will be created for a café/restaurant type use.

A new glazed box is proposed to overlook the castle and open space.

Intended to accommodate small-scale office use, other new commercial units will include the lower part of the building that fronts on to the Strand.

As well as a cinema, the building was also home to Lazerzone for many years before its relocation to the former Iceland unit on St David’s Place.

Swansea Council says it has supported Laserzone by granting the business a temporary lease for the unit, pending the regeneration of the overall former St David’s Shopping Centre site in the longer-term.

The council is also supporting the Castle Cinema building project via Welsh Government Transforming Towns funding.

Council Leader Rob Stewart recently visited the building with Cabinet Member Cyril Anderson.

Cllr Stewart said: “Many local people will have fond memories of time spent in the former Castle Cinema building. I can remember watching Star Trek 4: The Voyage Home there in the 1980s, and I also visited in the 1990s to play Laserzone.

“The building is a Swansea landmark and this exciting scheme led by Beacon Cymru and Easyliving Ltd means it’s set for a new lease of life.

“The project will also complement our plans to transform Castle Square into a greener, more welcoming space in a further boost for the city centre.”

Luke Takeuchi, Beacon Cymru Deputy Chief Executive, said: “We’re hugely excited about the Castle Cinema building project.

“It’s a great example of collaborative working for a scheme that will make the area more vibrant, while also helping tackle the housing crisis by providing a mix of one and two-bed apartments.”

Stephanie Hughes, Operations Manager at Easyliving Ltd, said: “We’re looking to start on site in the coming weeks and expect the project to take about 27 months to complete.

“It’s a really positive time for Swansea city centre with so much regeneration happening, so we’re delighted to be part of its ongoing transformation.”

Led by Swansea Council, work to transform Castle Square will start this summer.

The scheme will include feature a substantial increase in green space, a new water feature for interactive play, new outdoor seating areas, a giant new TV screen above a bandstand facility, the retention of public use space and two new pavilion buildings for food, drink or retail businesses.

#BeaconCymru #CastleCinema #CastleSquare #CllrRobStewart #EasylivingLtd #regeneration #Swansea #SwanseaCouncil

Roadside litter tackled by new team in Swansea

Swansea Council say they are looking at clearing tonnes of rubbish along main roads in the city, much of which is thought to have been thrown from car windows by irresponsible motorists.

The new ‘Long Roads Cleansing Team’ is tasked with targeting roads that generally link between communities and more often than not, do not feature pavements, making it difficult to safely carry out normal litter picking duties.

The team will also tackle and remove vegetation and general detritus which gathers around the many traffic islands and roundabouts in Swansea and complements the existing Highways Team that already carries out similar functions on Swansea’s faster and higher risk roads and dual carriageways.

One road to already benefit from the new service is between Glais and Birchgrove, where around half a tonne of litter has been retrieved from the road, grass verges and hedges.

Cyril Anderson, Cabinet Member for Community said: “The council carries out daily and weekly litter picks all across the city, particularly in busy public areas.

“The routes we are targeting as part of this latest litter clearance scheme are not generally considered as walking routes, so the assumption is that some motorists are throwing these items from their car window when passing through the area.

“The lack of pavements on these routes make it more difficult to carry out regular litter picking. That’s why we have created this new team, which will also be accompanied by traffic management vehicles and signs that can assist in warning passing motorists about their presence on the road.

“We’ve recently completed litter clearance along a road between Glais and Birchgrove and I was shocked with the amount of litter that has been collected.

“The council is doing its best to keep Swansea clean and litter free but we need the public to play their part and look after their local environment.”

The latest clean-up project follows on from the successful introduction of the Cleansing Waste Operatives Teams (CWOT) which sees teams going into communities every week, targeting areas of overgrown vegetation, clearing pavements and steps as well as tidying up lanes.

Cllr Anderson, said: “We made a commitment to residents that we would make Swansea a better, cleaner place to live. We have put significant investment (£2million) into this and all these schemes help promote Swansea as a clean city and a place residents can be proud of.”

#CllrCyrilAnderson #Environment #litter #Swansea #SwanseaCouncil

Minister visits council’s latest ‘More Homes’ development

Swansea Council say they are in the process of creating 13 new homes in the community of Manselton. The mix of one-bedroom flats and three-bedroom houses are part of the Council’s award winning ‘More Homes’ programme.

Andrea Lewis, the Council’s Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Service Transformation welcomed Ms Bryant to the city to showcase the latest energy saving homes, which have been created on council land in the city, following demolition of an older council building that was no longer in use.

Also included on the tour were cabinet representatives from neighbouring councils, including Pembrokeshire, Neath & Port Talbot and Carmarthenshire.

Once completed, the development will see a total of 13 new homes, comprising of 8 one-bedroom flats and 5 three-bedroom houses, all featuring energy efficient technology, including solar panels, battery storage and ground source heating, all designed to keep homes warmer and energy bills to a minimum.

The latest phase of work is part of the Council’s wider More Homes programme which has already created more than 280 additional council homes the city.

Cllr Lewis said she was extremely proud to be able to showcase the latest housing developments in the city. She said: “This is a great opportunity to showcase what Swansea is doing in terms of creating much needed new housing in the city.

“Welsh Government has been very supportive in terms of assisting with funding to introduce modern technology to the homes we are building and ensuring tenants can benefit from very low energy bills.

“Brondeg House was previously identified as surplus to requirements. Part of our strategy has been to look at former council-owned sites across the city where we can develop new homes and add to our current housing stock.

“Importantly, this latest scheme includes a number of one-bedroom properties, which are very much in demand in Swansea.

“This is part of a significant investment by the Council and we have committed to spending £250 million during the next five years.

“I’m confident this new development will follow the example made by previous More Homes schemes we have completed in recent years – providing modern, safe and warm homes for families or individuals.”

#CllrAndreaLewis #councilHouses #JayneBryantMS #Manselton #newHomes #Swansea #SwanseaCouncil

Optical and Aesthetics clinic proposed for part of new city office development

The national chain, who currently have premises at Alexandra House near the train station, has submitted a ‘Change of Use’ planning application to Swansea Council to use Unit B at the council’s new office development at 71/72 Kingsway as an optical clinic with an aesthetics clinic located within.

The council, who also own the recently constructed building, have already announced that travel operator TUI and workspace provider IWG are to take up tenancies. TUI are currently also based at Alexandra House.

A Swansea Council spokesperson said: “Positive discussions with Optical Express about taking up one of the retail units that fronts onto The Kingsway as part of the development are ongoing.

“We hope to make an announcement in the coming weeks.

“Flexible workspace provider IWG and travel and leisure company TUI have already been confirmed as scheme tenants for the main office spaces area of the building, and details of other tenants will be publicised as soon as talks are finalised.”

Swansea Bay News has approached Optical Express for comment on the application.

#7172Kingsway #Kingsway #officeDevelopment #OpticalExpress #Optician #Swansea #SwanseaCouncil

Support service for rough sleepers in Swansea receives national award

The Wallich, a Swansea Council-funded housing service, has received Housing First accreditation – a nationally recognised award presented to services across the country for the hard work and dedication in tackling homelessness.

Welsh Government Cabinet Secretary, Jayne Bryant, joined Swansea Council Leader Rob Stewart and Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Service Transformation Andrea Lewis, to present the special award to the Wallich during a recent visit to the Swansea based centre.

The Council has praised the service for the hard work and dedication in the Wallich’s efforts to work with people that have become entrenched in homelessness, helping them to turn their lives around.

Cllr Andrea Lewis, said: “We are extremely proud of everyone involved in the Wallich project,

“They are at the forefront of helping people who are really struggling in their life and work really hard to make a difference to individuals and families, working alongside the Council to end homelessness in the city.

“The Housing First model is a nationally recognised approach to tackling homelessness issues and accreditation to this, illustrates the hard work and effort put in by everyone involved at the Wallich.”

Anna Hooper of Wallich stated: “We’re over the moon to receive the accreditation, and the recognition of all the hard work the team put into the service. We couldn’t have achieved this without the support of all our partners here in Swansea. We’re very proud of our Housing First service.”

The Housing First model in Wales was developed, based on international research around engaging and working with people who have become entrenched into long term rough sleeping.

Cllr Lewis added: “The reasons why people choose to rough sleep may be incredibly complex and may include adverse childhood experiences, trauma and mental wellbeing issues and which can lead to multiple support needs.” 

Housing First is a recovery-oriented approach to ending homelessness that is focused on moving people into a settled home, while providing person centred, multi-agency, support for as long as it is needed. The model is successful for people with complex support needs with a history of homelessness, where traditional models of support have not been successful.

The service in Swansea was commissioned 2019 and has had many significant successes working with individuals who have experienced long term and repeat homelessness over a number of years when the existing service offer seemed not to work for them. 

The service is part of a wide range of homeless prevention and support services commissioned via the Council’s allocation of Housing Support Grant from Welsh Government to deliver services alongside statutory services which aim to make homelessness rare brief and unrepeated.

Accreditation of all Housing First Services in Wales is undertaken by Cymorth Cymru.

#CllrAndreaLewis #homelessness #Swansea #SwanseaCouncil #TheWallich

Fresh developments for the new-look Mumbles seafront

The council says its contractors have made a start on laying a hard-wearing buff-coloured new top surface over the previously installed black Tarmac.

The new surface reflects that of the popular Amy Dillwyn Park, next to the Swansea Building Society Arena.

Also, two sets of smart aluminium strips are being laid flush to the new prom surface. They’re a playful nod to the lines of the former Mumbles Railway, which was closed by the former South Wales Transport Company in 1960.

The additions are part of the Mumbles Coastal Protection Project that the council says will protect the Community from the effects of climate change for many years to come.

The scheme is being driven by Swansea Council and largely funded by the Welsh Government. Main contractors are Knights Brown.

Council cabinet member Andrew Stevens said: “Mumbles is for everybody – and it’s fantastic to see its new-look prom coming together nicely.

“The strengthened sea defences will be crucial in years to come and the prom will be a greener, more accessible and more welcoming place to visit.

“I thank the local traders, other organisations and residents for their understanding as the end of work on this major project starts to come within sight.”

The council says the first area of buff-coloured top surface is being installed next to the Oystermouth Square car park. Other locations on the prom will follow. It’s designed to be attractive and hard-wearing, with great use anticipated by pedestrians and cyclists.

The wavy aluminium strips will appear close to the former stations at Southend and Oystermouth Square. Each set is around 30m long which the council says will complement station-related signs to be installed by the Mumbles Development Trust as part of their Mumbles Railway Trail. Temporary signs are in place at those locations now.

Other new installations on the prom include Mumbles-themed art, dozens of trees, thousands of plants and shrubs, elegant lampposts and railings, walls and seats.

Among the new elements still to come, as the project nears its end, are landscaping features, new bins, two re-modelled slipways, new play equipment and festoon lighting draped between lampposts.

A new car park, with more than 40 parking spaces, is being created – and is partially open – near The George restaurant.

The council reiterated that Mumbles is open and accessible for the Easter holidays, with much of the prom being reopened to pedestrians.

The Swansea Bay Rider land train is running between Blackpill and its temporary turning circle close to Oystermouth Square. It is planned to have the land train running to the Pilot slipway once again this summer.

Meanwhile, the council says it is considering public wishes for the future use of the tennis courts site next to the Oyster Hotel. Views being taken on board include those expressed in a recent public survey.

#Mumbles #SeaDefences #Swansea #SwanseaCouncil

Farmers urge dog walkers to keep pets on leads to avoid ‘devastating impact’ of livestock attacks

As the Easter holidays get underway, the Farmers’ Union of Wales (FUW) is asking dog owners to act responsibly when out enjoying the countryside.

Its a message that’s been echoed by Swansea Council who have urged residents and visitors alike to follow the Countryside Code and make sure that if they’re taking their dogs on their walk on the hills around the city or on Gower that they keep them on leads anywhere near livestock.

Andrew Stevens, Swansea Council’s Cabinet Member for Environment and Infrastructure, and a livestock farmer in Gorseinon, said most of the 400 miles of rural paths and bridleways in the Swansea area cross farmers’ fields and dogs running free off their leads was a continuing concern where livestock was present.

He said: “Working alongside our partners in the farming community and Gower, our countryside access team plays its part in supporting the network of rural footpaths that add to the charm and people’s enjoyment of this incredible place.

“But we want to urge visitors to follow the Countryside Code and keep their dogs on leads where there is livestock around. Gower and other rural areas of Swansea are home to many livestock farms and sheep in particular are at risk from dogs.”

Cllr Stevens added: “The farming community welcomes responsible dog owners, but many visitors are not aware that even if their dog doesn’t come into direct contact with a sheep, the distress caused by being chased by a dog can trigger a pregnant ewe to die or miscarry.

“No matter how in control of their pets they think they are, owners should always remain alert and dogs should always be on a lead around livestock.”

The Dogs Protection of Livestock Act (1953) makes it an offence to allow a dog to worry livestock and can be punished with a fine of up to £1,000.

However, over recent years the Farmers Union of Wales (FUW) has been lobbying to ensure the police have greater powers to deal with attacks on livestock, stressing the importance of strong enforcement in preventing attacks. 

Currently, the Dogs (Protection of Livestock) (Amendment) Bill is making its way through Parliament. The Bill includes changes to what constitutes an offence, and increased powers for investigation of suspected offences.  

Commenting on the impact livestock worrying on farmers, FUW Regional Vice-President, Anwen Hughes said: “These attacks are not mere numbers; they inflict devastating trauma on livestock and further economic strain and stress on farmers. Beyond fatalities and severe injuries, the stress alone can trigger miscarriages in ewes, or lambs to become separated from their mothers. 

“This Easter, as we prepare to welcome visitors to enjoy our beautiful countryside, it’s crucial dog owners demonstrate diligence and responsibility when outside. Dog owners should never underestimate their dog, even the most friendly and well-trained dogs, have a natural instinct to chase and its vital that owners act responsibly when outside in the countryside. 

“There are no winners from livestock attacks. The trauma ripples through livestock, dog owners, and farmers, often leaving lasting emotional scars and a persistent fear of recurrence.”

The FUW also emphasised the importance of dog owners cleaning up after their dog. Dog waste can spread diseases to livestock, and it’s vital dog owners bring bags and dispose of dog feces properly in a bin and not just throw it away.

As part of their campaign to raise awareness of livestock worrying, the FUW has created signs for farmers and landowners encouraging dog owners to keep their dogs on a lead.

Ian Rickman, FUW President commented: “The FUW continues to lobby for greater police and legal powers to deal with dog attacks on livestock and the devastating impact they continue to have on Welsh farmers. Ultimately however, attacks on livestock are completely preventable through responsible dog ownership by the public.

“As farmers there are some precautions we can undertake to mitigate against the risk of dog attacks on our livestock. Steps such as displaying appropriate signage, clearly warning dog owners to keep their dogs on leads and under control, can be helpful in raising awareness and hopefully ensure the countryside can be enjoyed by everyone in a sustainable manner.”

(Lead image: Swansea Council)

#CllrAndrewStevens #countryside #Dogs #FarmersUnionOfWales #Farming #FUW #Gower #livestock #sheep #sheepWorrying #Swansea #SwanseaCouncil #walking

Swansea schools set for £2.1m maintenance boost

The council’s cabinet has approved the major programme of works and it means around £2.1m is being directed to more than 17 schools for work to replace or repair roofs, electrical upgrades and other improvements.

Schools set to see improvements include Pontarddulais Comprehensive, Blaen-y-Maes Primary, Gors Primary, Waun Wen Primary, Cwmglas Primary and Grange Primary amongst others.

Another £40,000 has also been earmarked for the council’s toilet strategy on top of £50,000 last year to maintain and upgrade the council’s network of public toilets.

There is also money to maintain Swansea’s war memorials, which the council has pledged to maintain on behalf of veterans.

On top of the council’s commitment, more funding is due from the Welsh Government later in the year to help keep council schools and buildings in good shape.

Rob Stewart, Leader of the Council, said: “We are once again investing significant sums on essential maintenance improvements for our schools and public buildings.

“Our capital maintenance budget spending demonstrates how the council’s priorities match those of the people of Swansea and, at the same time, help make inroads into the backlog of maintenance improvements our schools and public buildings need.”

He added: “The programme takes into account the council’s commitment to reducing its carbon footprint and cutting energy costs.”

Cabinet Member for Education and Learning, Robert Smith, said: “As a council we recognise just how important education is not just to pupils, parents and staff but also to our city’s future economic well-being.

“The maintenance and repairs programme is in addition to the record £150m investment in new and improved school facilities in Swansea under the Sustainable Communities for Learning Programme.”

(Lead image: Alison Williams)

#BlaenYMaesPrimarySchool #CwmglasPrimarySchool #GorsPrimarySchool #GrangePrimarySchool #PontarddulaisComprehensive #publicToilets #schoolMaintenance #Swansea #SwanseaCouncil #WarMemorial #WaunWenPrimarySchool

Singleton Park goes Jurassic: New creature feature installed

The creatures are the latest feature of the iconic family park and they have been installed just in time for the Easter holidays.

It’s thanks to a generous donation from Day’s Motor Group, Wales’ largest family-run dealer group, which means the park will now be home to these colossal creatures, including a Tyrannosaurus Rex, Triceratops, and Stegosaurus.

Swansea Council brought in popular local mural artist Hasan Kamil to apply some Jurassic colour to make the creatures more realistic looking for all the family to enjoy.

The council says the installation promises to elevate Singleton Park’s status as a prime destination for families and dinosaur enthusiasts alike, whilst also providing educational opportunities related to the fascinating world of dinosaurs and palaeontology.

Any temporary disruption to the park will be rectified after the installation has been completed.

The dinosaurs are the latest addition to a range of improvements to the park which have included improving water quality and increasing oxygen levels in the lake to boost the environment in the lake for fish, amphibians and invertebrates through non-invasive de-silting.

Other improvements include creating a new learning area called Nature Corner at the Lake, new information boards highlighting the area’s local wildlife, improved drainage at the park, improvements to the crazy golf course and upgrades for the pedalos.

Cllr Robert Francis-Davies, Cabinet Member for Investment, Regeneration, Events and Tourism at Swansea Council, said: “The four new residents of Singleton Park will make a great addition to the attractions at the boating lake.

“Families will love discovering these prehistoric creatures while exploring the park, and they’re sure to become a roaring success. A big thank you to Day’s Motor Group for this donation.”

He added: “We took advice from ecological experts about how best to improve conditions for wildlife at the lake and surrounding area. Their review showed fish, amphibians and invertebrates would benefit from the non-invasive de-silting approach we’ve taken.

“Any temporary disruption will be rectified and the popular local gees community has been unaffected by the changes.”

An investment agreed by council at its budget meeting last month also means that sections of railings around the park will also be upgraded.

Russ Day. Managing Director and CEO, Day’s Motor Group, said: “Day’s are delighted to be able to donate our iconic Dinosaurs to Swansea Council to help create an attraction in Singleton Park.

“This donation reinforces Day’s commitment to community support and collaboration with the great team at Swansea Council.”

(Lead image: Swansea Council)

#DaysMotorGroup #Dinosaurs #featured #SingletonPark #Swansea #SwanseaCouncil

Figures show arena success since opening

The arena – which opened in March 2022 – has hosted a huge number of ticketed events, conferences, exhibitions and university graduation ceremonies.

Stars to have taken to the stage there include Johnny Depp and Alice Cooper with The Hollywood Vampires, Gladys Knight and Michael McIntyre.

Forthcoming events there include The Manic Street Preachers, Ocean Colour Scene and Greg Davies.

Visitor figures are outperforming initial projections, along with ticket sales with an average of more than 80 per cent attendance for concerts.

Developed by Swansea Council and part-funded by the Swansea Bay City Deal, the arena is being run by the ATG Entertainment Group.

The council says work on the glass lift is due to be completed in the summer, along with other finishing works at the Copr Bay site.

Cllr Robert Francis-Davies, Swansea Council’s Cabinet Member for Investment, Regeneration and Tourism, said: “It was identified several years ago that an arena would be an excellent option for Swansea to boost regeneration here and complement facilities like the Grand Theatre and the Brangwyn Hall.

“These figures show our decision to construct the venue was right and that the arena continues to go from strength to strength.

“It’s one feature of a regeneration programme worth over £1bn that’s ongoing in Swansea to create one of the UK’s best destinations to live, work, study, enjoy, visit and invest.

“This is part of our commitment to boost our local economy, create jobs for local people and transform our city centre for the benefit of local residents and local businesses.”

Lara Caple-Harding, General Manager of Swansea Building Society Arena, said: “During our first three years, we’ve put the capabilities of our venue to the test by welcoming rock gigs, exhibitions, graduations, musicals, snooker tournaments, TV productions, and plenty more through our doors.

“Working collaboratively with Swansea Council, grassroots music venues, hospitality partners, and local institutions across the region has allowed us to support the city’s already exceptional efforts in firmly placing South West Wales on the entertainment and events map. 

“Bringing a variety of entertainment to the region has been our aim since opening, and we’re looking forward to continuing playing a part in the exciting future of the city for years to come. “

Other concerts and events taking place at Swansea Building Society Arena in the coming months include Rob Beckett, Level 42 and Wet Wet Wet with Heather Small.

(Lead image: ACME / Hufton+Crow)

#Swansea #SwanseaArena #SwanseaCouncil

Cyclists get online help with ancient Gower bridleways

Swansea Council has developed an online map, setting out the off-road cycle routes in parts of Gower, including Rhossili and Llanmadoc.

The new map can be downloaded to a smartphone and can be used to guide two-wheeled lovers around a network of ancient bridleways that have been in place for centuries.

The routes treat cyclists to spectacular views from Rhossili Down and Llanmadoc Hill across Carmarthen Bay to Tenby and the Bristol Channel to north Devon, with the backdrop of the Brecon Beacons to the north.

The new online map and webpages provide lots of advice for cyclists, including visitor information about car parking, toilet facilities, general information about cycling in the countryside, as well as tips on what to do if you encounter horse riders using the bridleways.

Andrew Stevens, Cabinet Member for Environment and Infrastructure, said: “Gower is known worldwide for its beautiful coastline and unique landscapes.

“As well as being a great place for visiting and walking, there are plenty of lesser-known routes that are accessible for off-road cycling, providing a different perspective of Gower.

“Our Countryside Access Team has created an online version of the route map, along with plenty of tips and advice for visitors who want to hop on a bike and see Gower on two wheels.”

The Council has also recently announced further plans to upgrade a section of the Gower Coast Path and follows improvements to a section of path between Rotherslade and Limeslade.

Swansea’s section of the All Wales Coast Path was officially opened in 2012, where 61km of coast path have been joined together to enable walkers to trek from Swansea’s waterfront in SA1 and walk right through to Loughor, travelling through Caswell Bay, Port Eynon, Rhossili and Llanmadoc.

Cllr Stevens added; “Gower is now more accessible to walkers and cyclists than it’s ever been. We’ve continued to upgrade sections of the coast path to enable all users to enjoy the beauty of Gower.

“Now that we are starting to see the warmer weather, I would encourage everyone to take a trip out to Gower and enjoy what the region has to offer – whether on foot or on a bike.”

(Lead image Swansea Council)

#CllrAndrewStevens #cycling #Gower #SwanseaCouncil