Council leader welcomes planning approval for Ospreys’ St Helen’s stadium redevelopment
Following the announcement of planning approval for the Ospreys’ proposed redevelopment of St Helen’s Sports Ground, Swansea Council leader Rob Stewart has welcomed the decision and reaffirmed the council’s commitment to supporting the club’s long-term future in the city.
Cllr Rob Stewart, Leader of Swansea Council, said: “It’s vitally important for sport and the local economy that the Ospreys continue to be based in Swansea and we’re working together to make that happen.
“We’re doing everything we can to support the Ospreys. We’ve agreed a lease for them to make St Helen’s their new home and to widen its community use.
“And I’m pleased the council’s planning committee has today granted planning permission for the exciting redevelopment of St Helen’s.”
The council’s endorsement follows confirmation that construction work is expected to begin this autumn, with the club aiming to relocate permanently to St Helen’s in December 2025.
The approved plans include a full-size World Rugby compliant 4G pitch, three new stands, a covered terrace, upgraded floodlights, fan zones, and improved access and parking. A second phase of development would add a training barn, gym and changing rooms.
Cllr Stewart added: “By having a lease agreed and planning permission in place the Ospreys can start moving ahead with their plans to remain in Swansea and transform the historic St Helen’s ground into a modern sports facility.”
The council’s investment and the Ospreys’ lease remain conditional, with ongoing uncertainty over the future of Wales’ four rugby regions due to a WRU consultation.
Cllr Stewart said: “We know the uncertainty over the future of the regions has raised concerns about the timing of the planned redevelopment of St Helen’s.
“That’s why we’re working closely with the Ospreys and have an agreement with them to ensure the works at St Helen’s progress in line with any WRU decisions on the future structure of the regions.
“We have done all we can to support the Ospreys to get them to this point. We now hope the WRU will end the uncertainty hanging over the regions and support the Ospreys in continuing top flight rugby in Swansea.”
The redevelopment is designed to honour the site’s sporting legacy while modernising infrastructure to support elite and community rugby. Swansea RFC and Swansea University will continue to play at the ground, with Swansea RFC temporarily relocating to Dunvant RFC’s Broadacre ground during construction.
Swansea Cricket Club, a tenant at St Helen’s since 1875, will vacate the site after the 2025 season. The council is working with the club to support its move to an upgraded facility at Sketty Lane.
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