Philosopher Ludwig Wittgenstein honoured with blue plaque at Langland Bay

The plaque has been installed on the promenade wall near the Hole in the Wall Café — a spot the philosopher is believed to have walked past many times during his visits to the area.

It is the latest addition to Swansea Council’s blue plaque scheme, which celebrates the city’s heritage and has now been running for 12 years.

Wittgenstein’s Swansea connection

Born in Vienna in 1889, Wittgenstein is widely regarded as one of the greatest philosophers of the modern era, best known for his work in logic, mathematics, the philosophy of mind and language.

His visits to Swansea were prompted by his close friendship with philosopher Rush Rhees, who taught at Swansea University from 1940 to 1966. Wittgenstein often stayed at guest houses in Langland and Uplands, spending time walking the Gower coastline and developing ideas that would shape his later work.

It is believed these summers had a profound influence on his thinking. In a 1945 letter to his friend Norman Malcolm, Wittgenstein reflected warmly on his time in Swansea, writing:

“I know quite a number of people here whom I like. I seem to find it more easy to get along with them here than in England. I feel much more often like smiling.”

Recognition and legacy

The plaque was proposed by Dr Alan Sandry, Senior Lecturer in the School of Management at Swansea University.

Cllr Elliott King, Swansea Council’s Cabinet Member for Culture, said:

“Ludwig Wittgenstein’s connection to Swansea is a remarkable story that links our city to one of the greatest minds of the 20th century. His time here influenced his thinking and helped inspire a generation of philosophers at Swansea University. The blue plaque scheme allows us to celebrate these powerful connections and share them with residents and visitors, helping shine a light on the people who have shaped our city’s cultural and intellectual heritage.”

Swansea’s blue plaque scheme

The scheme is open to nominations from the public for people and places of historic interest. Other recipients include architect Glendenning Moxham, musician Pete Ham, novelist Ann of Swansea, anti‑slavery campaigner Jessie Donaldson, polar explorer Edgar Evans, and the Vetch Field.

#bluePlaque #cllrElliottKing #drAlanSandry #heritage #holeInTheWallCafe #langlandBay #ludwigWittgenstein #philosopher #schoolOfManagement #swansea #swanseaCouncil #swanseaUniversity

Swansea’s Christmas Parade shortlisted for national award

The parade, which returns on Saturday 23 November with a new city centre route, has been shortlisted for Event of the Year (Local Authority) at the National Outdoor Events Association (NOEA) Awards 2025.

Building on festive coverage

Earlier this month, Swansea Bay News reported on the city centre’s festive programme, including the Victorian Christmas Fayre, Winter Wonderland, and the new parade route beginning at the Guildhall and finishing on Princess Way. Now, the parade itself has been named among the UK’s best outdoor events.

National recognition

The NOEA Awards, held in Bath on Wednesday 26 November, celebrate excellence across the UK’s outdoor events industry. Swansea Council’s parade stands alongside major national festivals and pioneering councils, with finalists chosen for innovation, quality and community impact.

Cllr Elliott King, Cabinet Member for Culture, said:

“This marks the second time this year that Swansea’s events programme has been recognised nationally. The Christmas Parade is a highlight of the city’s festive calendar, and this shows how Swansea continues to deliver memorable, inclusive and high‑quality events for our communities.”

What to expect this year

The 2025 parade will feature floats, performers and festive characters along its new route:

• Starting at the Guildhall
• Along St Helen’s Road
• Through the Kingsway
• Across College Street
• Down Castle Street and Caer Street
• Finishing on Princess Way

Organisers say the changes will give families fresh vantage points and new experiences as the city centre lights up for Christmas.

#christmas #christmasParade #nationalOutdoorEventsAssociation #noeaAwards2025 #swansea #swanseaChristmasParade #swanseaChristmasParade2025 #swanseaCityCentreChristmas #swanseaCouncil #swanseaCouncilEvents #swanseaFestiveEvents #swanseaWinterWonderland #victorianChristmasFayreSwansea

£80,000 upgrade completed on Gower coast path between Rotherslade and Limeslade

Swansea Council has completed the final two sections of the coast path between Rotherslade and Limeslade, installing a 310‑metre concrete path that is 1.5 metres wide.

The full route stretches for 1.7km and has been subject to repeated works in recent years due to coastal erosion. In March, a new 450‑metre section was added, following a 270‑metre stretch completed in 2022.

The latest upgrade forms part of an £80,000 investment funded through the council’s highways maintenance programme.

Path strengthened against erosion

Andrew Stevens, Cabinet Member for Environment and Infrastructure, said thousands of people use the Gower coast path each year and the council has acted to protect it.

“The section between Limeslade and Rotherslade has unfortunately been a victim of coastal erosion in recent years, and we have done all we can to create new sections and divert it away from the affected area. This has also given us the opportunity to create a more accessible walking route that everyone can access.”

Accessible for all

Cllr Stevens added:

“We have now completed the final two short sections that have not been upgraded. While they were not impacted by coastal erosion, they now provide improved access for families with pushchairs and also wheelchair users. We’ve chosen to invest some of our highways and transport budget to enable the upgrade to take place.”

Part of wider All Wales Coast Path

Swansea’s section of the All Wales Coast Path was officially opened in 2012, linking 61km of coastline around the peninsula. Walkers can trek from Swansea’s SA1 waterfront through Caswell Bay, Port Eynon, Rhossili and Llanmadoc, right through to Loughor.

#cllrAndrewStevens #footpath #gower #gowerCoastPath #limeslade #rotherslade #swanseaCouncil #walesCoastPath

New city centre courtyard to honour late council officer Huw Mowbray

Tribute in the heart of the city

According to the council, construction of Mowbray Yard will start this month after the appointment of Horan Construction Ltd as the main contractor. The courtyard, which the council says will feature trees, planting and new street furniture, is intended to provide a calm and welcoming space between The Kingsway and Oxford Street.

Council Leader Rob Stewart said:

“We’re delighted to confirm the appointment of a contractor to deliver Mowbray Yard – a beautiful new courtyard that will stand as a lasting tribute to Huw. His dedication, energy and vision helped shape many of Swansea’s most significant regeneration projects in recent years, so it’s only fitting that this space bears his name.”

A career that transformed Swansea

The council notes that Mr Mowbray, who died in 2023 aged 59, was a father of two and a long‑serving officer. Officials say he played a central role in delivering landmark schemes including the Swansea.com Stadium, Swansea Arena and the revamp of Wind Street.

Part of wider regeneration

Swansea Council says Mowbray Yard is due for completion in spring 2026. The courtyard will sit behind the new 71/72 Kingsway office development, which the authority describes as a key part of the city centre regeneration programme and part‑funded by the Swansea Bay City Deal.

The council says 80% of the office space at 71/72 Kingsway is now let, with hundreds of staff from companies including TUI and Futures First already moved in. Officials add that further tenants will be announced in the coming weeks.

#7172Kingsway #construction #courtyard #horanConstruction #huwMowbray #kingsway #kingswayRegeneration #mowbrayYard #oxfordStreet #regeneration #swansea #swanseaCityCentre #swanseaCityCentreRegeneration #swanseaCouncil

Swansea city centre to kick‑start festive season with Victorian Fayre, Winter Wonderland and Christmas Parade

From Thursday November 20, Oxford Street, Princess Way and Portland Street will be transformed into a Victorian‑style market for four days, with around 50 artisan stalls, costumed traders, street food and live entertainment.

The Victorian Christmas Fayre is a new addition to Swansea’s festive calendar, designed to bring the sights, sounds and tastes of a traditional Christmas to the city centre.

On Friday November 21, Waterfront Winterland opens at Museum Park, offering ice skating, rides and festive food.

The celebrations culminate on Sunday November 23, when the Christmas Parade takes to the streets with floats, bands, choirs and light‑up characters. Santa will switch on the city’s Christmas lights at the end of the procession, following a fireworks display at the Guildhall to mark the start of the parade.

Cllr David Hopkins, Swansea Council’s Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Delivery, said:

“Swansea city centre will be the place to be this Christmas, with more festive fun than ever before. We’re proud to bring back much‑loved favourites, alongside exciting additions such as the Victorian Christmas Fayre and several other new events for 2025.”

#Christmas #ChristmasParade #CllrDavidHopkins #Swansea #SwanseaCityCentre #SwanseaCouncil #SwanseaVictorianChristmasFayre #Victorian #WaterfrontWinterland

Swansea falls silent for Remembrance Sunday

At the Swansea War Memorial, also known as the Cenotaph, on the promenade beside Mumbles Road, Lord Mayor of Swansea Cllr Cheryl Philpott joined members of the council, armed forces, veterans and community representatives to lay wreaths in tribute. Services also took place across communities throughout the city and county.

Swansea Council said:

“At 11am today Swansea fell silent in remembrance of those in the armed forces who have died in service of our country, our veterans and those who serve.”

Cllr Philpott reflected on the week of remembrance events across the city, including visits to schools, cadet presentations, and the Poppies at Oystermouth Castle installation. She said:

“Standing beneath the ancient walls, surrounded by a sea of red, I reflected on the courage of those who gave so much and the importance of ensuring their stories live on.”

She added that gatherings such as the Festival of Remembrance at the Brangwyn Hall, the Cenotaph service, and the service at Swansea Minster unite people of all generations “with gratitude for the past and hope for a peaceful future.”

Today’s ceremony at the Cenotaph was marked by solemn reflection, with veterans, serving personnel, civic leaders and members of the public standing together in silence before wreaths were laid.

(All images: Swansea Council / Swansea Minster)

#ArmedForces #Cenotaph #CllrCherylPhilpott #LordMayorOfSwansea #MumblesPromenade #MumblesRoad #poppyWreath #RemembranceDay #RemembranceSunday #Swansea #SwanseaCouncil #SwanseaMinster #SwanseaWarMemorial #Veterans

Cash‑only taxis told to install card machines in Swansea

From December 2025, newly licensed private hire and hackney taxis must carry card readers, following a decision by Swansea Council’s general licensing committee. Existing licence holders will need to comply when their licences are renewed, meaning some drivers may not be required to install machines until next year.

The move follows concerns from passengers that cash‑only taxis risk leaving people stranded if they don’t have notes or coins to hand. Many passengers now rely on contactless payments, Google Pay and other digital methods.

A public consultation held in May and June found strong support for the change, with 82% of respondents agreeing that card machines should be mandatory in all taxis. In total, 417 people took part, including 179 from the taxi industry.

Andrew Williams, Swansea Council’s Cabinet Member for Corporate Services, said:

“Many taxi companies and individual taxi owners already use card reader technology as well as giving passengers the ability to pay fares via a smartphone app.

However, there are still many taxi drivers in the city that only allow payment by cash, and this could put would‑be passengers at risk of not being able to pay their fare if they are not carrying cash.

Our recent public consultation has shown overwhelmingly that passengers want to see modern payment methods being adopted in all licensed taxis operating in the city.”

The council first signalled the change in January 2025, when a report recommended consulting the public and taxi operators on mandatory card payments.

The new rules mean that by the end of 2026, all licensed taxis in Swansea are expected to offer passengers the option of paying by card as well as cash.

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Councillor warns culvert collapse could leave Cwmbwrla at risk over Christmas

At the full council meeting on 6 November 2025, Cllr Peter Black CBE (Liberal Democrats, Cwmbwrla) told members that homes had once again been inundated after water levels rose higher than in previous floods. He cautioned that until the culvert is rebuilt, the risk of repeat flooding remains.

Black said one of the pumps failed early during the storm, leaving the council “without control of the situation,” and urged urgent measures to provide extra resilience for residents.

Praise for drainage and clean‑up teams

Other councillors acknowledged the scale of the challenge and praised highways and drainage staff for their response. Andrew Stevens (Labour, Gorseinon) said teams had been called in to deal with over 40,000 drains across Swansea, working through the night to keep roads open. Cllr Peter May (Uplands Party, Uplands) described their efforts as “A1,” noting floodwaters dissipated within hours thanks to their work.

Council Leader Rob Stewart (Labour, Morriston) also thanked staff, stressing that officers had worked “diligently” to keep services running during the storm.

Their praise echoed earlier coverage by Swansea Bay News, which reported how council teams worked through the night to clear debris and reopen the Cwmbwrla roundabout following the floods. The clean‑up operation was described as “superb,” with staff ensuring the busy junction was made safe for traffic again.

Collapsed culvert at Cwmfelin Club

Council Leader Rob Stewart (Labour, Morriston) stressed that the repeated flooding at Cwmbwrla was not caused by blocked drains but by the collapsed culvert on private land near the Cwmfelin Club:

“There is a specific issue relating to a collapsed culvert on private land. It cannot handle the water it would normally take away from that area.”

Cllr Peter Black CBE (Liberal Democrats, Cwmbwrla) warned that the repair work will take months, leaving residents exposed to further risk if temporary pumps are overwhelmed:

“This is not going to be fixed before Christmas. This is not going to be fixed until January at the very earliest and it’s going to have more torrential rain events like that again. And we cannot sustain another flood like that in Cwmbwrla if we can help it.”

Wider impact across Swansea

Councillors noted flooding affected wards across the city, with leaf fall adding to the challenge of keeping gullies clear. Swansea Council has already urged residents to help by reporting hotspots where leaves are piling up on pavements and roads, as cleansing teams step up their seasonal clear‑up.

Over recent weeks, crews have removed hundreds of tonnes of leaves across the city, with extra resources diverted from other cleansing work to keep drains clear and footpaths safe. A new leaf‑sucking and mulching machine is being used to vacuum up large piles of leaves and shred them into mulch for disposal — allowing teams to cover more ground more quickly.

Cllr Cyril Anderson, Cabinet Member for Community Services, said the new kit would help crews lift even more leaves efficiently, but warned:

“It only takes a couple of days of wind and rain to see a further build‑up, particularly in areas with lots of trees.”

Residents are being encouraged to report problem areas directly to the cleansing team so they can be prioritised for clearance.

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Cwmbwrla roundabout reopens after flooding clean‑up
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Council says: Give us a hand with fallen leaves
Residents are urged to report leaf hotspots as crews deploy new equipment to keep drains clear this autumn.

Swansea Council reaffirms City of Sanctuary status in social cohesion vote
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#blockedDrains #CllrAndrewStevens #CllrPeterBlack #CllrPeterMay #CllrRobStewart #culvert #Cwmbwrla #cwmbwrlaFlooding #CwmbwrlaRoundabout #CwmfelinSocialCLub #flooding #Swansea #SwanseaCouncil

Swansea councillors vow to fight for Ospreys as WRU cuts loom

At Swansea Council’s full council meeting on 6 November 2025, members from across the chamber united in opposition to the WRU’s restructuring, warning it risks the future of the Ospreys and undermines rugby in the west.

WRU’s three‑club plan

The WRU has confirmed it intends to reduce the number of professional teams in Wales from four to three, citing financial pressures and the need to concentrate resources. The plan would leave only three regions competing at the top level, with the Ospreys and Scarlets both facing uncertainty over their future. Critics have branded the move “short‑sighted” and “not fit for purpose,” warning it would weaken the game in West Wales and damage pathways for young players.

“The only true region”

Deputy Leader David Hopkins (Labour, Townhill) told councillors the Ospreys are “the only true region” and their contribution to communities and the wider game is “invaluable.” He said the council is already working closely with the club to secure its future.

Opposition leader Chris Holley OBE (Liberal Democrats, Cwmbwrla) agreed, warning that reducing to three regions would be “a backward step” and “doesn’t help us in this region.”

Council leader calls plan “flawed”

Council Leader Rob Stewart (Labour, Morriston) branded the WRU’s plan “flawed in every respect,” stressing the Ospreys are Wales’ most successful region. “We will continue to bat as hard as we can for them to remain,” he said, confirming ongoing dialogue with the union.

St Helen’s redevelopment plans

The debate also touched on the Ospreys’ future home. Cllr Peter May (Uplands Party, Uplands) noted the club had been planning a move to St Helen’s in his ward, describing it as “an exciting time” for the area.

Planning approval for the redevelopment of St Helen’s was granted earlier this year, with proposals including new facilities and improvements to the historic ground. At the time, Rob Stewart welcomed the decision, saying it would “secure the Ospreys’ long‑term future in Swansea and provide a boost for rugby and the city.”

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Council leader welcomes planning approval for Ospreys’ St Helen’s stadium redevelopment
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Ospreys facing uncertain future as WRU plans to cut regions
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#CllrChrisHolley #CllrDavidHopkins #CllrPeterMay #CllrRobStewart #Ospreys #Rugby #Swansea #SwanseaCouncil #WRU

Work to start on new skate plaza at Victoria Park as £2.8m wheeled sports investment rolls out

A city‑centre hub for skaters and riders

The scheme will replace the park’s existing skate ramp with a modern plaza‑style design, giving skateboarders, BMXers and scooter riders a purpose‑built space in the heart of the city. Swansea Council expects to appoint a contractor shortly, with the project scheduled for completion by the end of March.

Locals will get their first look at the plans during a public meeting in the park on Tuesday, November 11, where designers from Curve Studio will explain the project. A follow‑up session at the Guildhall will then set out how the wider £2.8m investment in wheeled sports is taking shape across Swansea.

Investment reaching across Swansea

The Victoria Park project is just one part of a city‑wide programme. Updated designs will also be unveiled for a BMX‑focused track at Gowerton’s Elba sports complex and an upgraded skatepark at Ynystawe.

Council officers say the goal is simple: to ensure that in most parts of Swansea, no one will have to travel more than two miles to reach a new or improved wheeled sports facility.

Other schemes are already moving forward. Contracts are about to be awarded for improvements at Mynydd Newydd in Penlan and the Phoenix Centre in Townhill, while major upgrades have already been completed at Coed Bach in Pontarddulais and Melin Mynach in Gorseinon.

Plans are also in the pipeline for a small cycling facility in Blaenymaes, a new pump track in Bishopston, refurbishment of the existing pump track at Clyne Valley, and a junior pump track in Gorseinon. More sites are expected to be announced soon.

Council: “We’re investing heavily”

Cllr Andrew Stevens, Cabinet Member for Environment and Infrastructure, said: “We understand how popular skateboarding, BMXing and other wheeled sports are in Swansea.

This is why we’re investing so heavily in new or improved facilities right across the city for the benefit of our young people and wheeled sports enthusiasts of all ages.

The meetings planned for next week will give people an update on where we are with the overall investment as we continue to work closely alongside experts at Curve Studio to deliver the kind of high‑quality facilities that meets people’s needs and aspirations.”

Backed by multiple partners

The £2.8m programme is being funded through a mix of council budgets, ward member contributions, the community investment fund, support from community and town councils, and Welsh Government active travel grants.

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#BMX #CurveStudio #Guildhall #SkatePark #skatePlaza #Skateboarding #Swansea #SwanseaCouncil #VictoriaPark

Swansea Council reaffirms City of Sanctuary status in social cohesion vote

Council votes for sanctuary and cohesion

At last night’s full council meeting, councillors supported a Notice of Motion on social cohesion, with only two votes against. The motion reaffirmed Swansea’s commitment as a City of Sanctuary, supporting asylum seekers and refugees, and directly addressed recent controversy around claims made about Seaview School’s religious education classes.

The vote saw Labour, Liberal Democrat and Conservative councillors united, with senior Tory councillor Lyndon Jones backing the motion alongside his group. Reform councillor Francesca O’Brien, who represents Mumbles, opposed the motion, along with one independent councillor.

Reform voices opposition

Cllr Francesca O’Brien, elected as a Conservative in 2022 before joining Reform UK earlier this year, said she voted against because she wanted to represent “working families in Swansea” concerned about illegal immigration.

“It’s clear that this Council believes if you want to put an end to illegal immigration, you’re a racist. I’m proud to give a voice to people across my ward and across the whole of Swansea who think our laws matter, our borders matter, and our safety matters.”

A Reform UK Wales spokesperson added:

“The Tories have left the playing field on illegal immigration. The only party left that’s talking sense on these issues is Reform UK.”

Conservative backing contrasts with Senedd stance

Swansea’s Conservative councillors supported the motion, despite their Senedd leader Darren Millar previously opposing the Welsh Government’s “Nation of Sanctuary” policy. Locally, the group aligned with Labour and Liberal Democrat colleagues to reaffirm Swansea’s sanctuary status.

Council responds to Seaview School controversy

The motion followed weeks of tension around Seaview Primary School, after claims circulated online about its religious education classes. Swansea Bay News previously reported how the Council issued a formal rebuttal, describing the allegations as “misinformation” and stressing that the school’s teaching complied fully with the national curriculum.

Councillors said last night’s motion was designed to counter the spread of false claims and to reinforce Swansea’s commitment to community cohesion.

Campaigners hail anti‑racism stance

Local group Stand Up to Racism Swansea welcomed the vote, describing it as “a defence of the Nation of Sanctuary supporting asylum seekers and refugees.” In a statement, they said the motion was brought specifically to oppose “racist Islamophobic lies about Seaview School” and praised councillors for condemning hate.

The group reported that two members of the public gallery walked out during the debate, shouting obscenities, after councillors backed the motion.

Calls for action on social media hate

Earlier in the meeting, the Green Party’s Cllr Chris Evans asked the Leader to press the UK Government to hold social media companies accountable for failing to deal with far‑right hate and misinformation. He suggested councils should be able to join class action lawsuits to recover costs of dealing with unrest caused by online content.

Responding, Labour’s Cllr Rob Stewart the Leader of Swansea Council said he would write to the Prime Minister and the Secretary of State for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport, urging legislative measures to make platforms jointly liable with content creators. He warned that algorithms amplifying harmful content were “undermining social cohesion and placing additional strain on local services.”

Swansea’s journey as a City of Sanctuary

Swansea first declared itself a City of Sanctuary in 2010, becoming only the second city in the UK to adopt the title. The decision was rooted in a desire to make the city a place of welcome for people fleeing war and persecution, and it quickly grew into a wider movement.

Over the past 15 years, schools, faith groups, charities, and community organisations have joined together under the sanctuary banner. From English language classes to cultural festivals, the aim has been to weave hospitality and inclusion into everyday life. Supporters say the designation has helped Swansea build a reputation for compassion, while also challenging prejudice and misinformation.

By reaffirming its sanctuary status last night, councillors sought to restate those values in the face of recent controversy, reminding residents that Swansea’s identity as a City of Sanctuary is not just a title but a lived commitment to community and solidarity.

What it means for Swansea

The motion reaffirms Swansea’s identity as a City of Sanctuary, a designation first adopted 15 years ago. Supporters say it strengthens the city’s commitment to welcoming refugees and asylum seekers, while also sending a clear message against misinformation and hate.

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#asylumSeekers #CityOfSanctuary #FrancescaOBrien #IllegalImmigrants #misinformation #NationOfSanctuary #NoticeOfMotion #politics #ReformUK #refugees #religiousEducation #SeaviewPrimarySchool #StandUpToRacism #Swansea #SwanseaCouncil

New route announced for Swansea Christmas Parade

The parade begins at 5pm at the Guildhall, where Santa will illuminate the building with a red glow before a fireworks display signals the start of the evening.

Parade route through the city

From the Guildhall, the parade will travel down St Helen’s Road, along the Kingsway, College Street, Castle Street and Caer Street, before finishing on Princess Way.

More than 40 community groups, colourful floats and beloved characters from fairytales and comic books – including Cinderella and Rapunzel – will join the procession. Santa and Mrs Claus will wave from their magical sleigh as the parade makes its way through the city.

Entertainment and lights switch‑on

Live entertainment will take place on two stages: one at the Guildhall and the traditional stage outside the Dragon Hotel, where a new Christmas tree will stand. Santa will ceremoniously switch on Swansea’s Christmas lights before another fireworks display lights up the night sky.

Professional entertainers, fairytale characters and superheroes will be on hand to keep children and adults entertained throughout the evening.

Council leader welcomes new route

Cllr Rob Stewart, Leader of Swansea Council, said:

“The Swansea Christmas Parade is one of the city’s most cherished events – a chance for our communities to come together and celebrate the start of the festive season.

This year’s new route brings exciting opportunities to experience the magic from fresh perspectives and it promises to be a truly unforgettable evening.”

He added that the parade is the perfect opportunity to start Christmas celebrations, alongside visits to Waterfront Winterland with its ice rink and alpine bar, and the Victorian Christmas Market offering artisan gifts and festive treats.

Cllr Stewart said the parade rounds off another strong year of council‑delivered events, including the Wales Airshow, IRONMAN, Swansea Arts Weekend and Croeso.

#CaerStreet #CastleStreet #ChristmasLightSwitchOn #ChristmasLights #ChristmasParade #CollegeStreet #FatherChristmas #Guildhall #Kingsway #PrincessWay #Santa #SantaClaus #StHelensRoad #Swansea #SwanseaChristmasParade #SwanseaCouncil

Cwmbwrla roundabout reopens after flooding clean‑up

Highways teams worked day and night to clear debris and pump away water, with a final clean‑up completed earlier today. A road sweeper lorry carried out the finishing touches before the route was reopened to traffic.

The council thanked the public for their patience during the closure and praised the efforts of staff who ensured the busy junction could be made safe again.

Responsibility for repairs

While the roundabout is now open, the council has stressed that the underlying repair work is not its responsibility. The culvert and sewer beneath the junction require major repairs, which will involve a 12‑foot excavation once the demolition of the nearby Cwmfelin Club has been completed.

Responsibility for those works lies with the members of the Cwmfelin Club and their insurer, not Swansea Council. Until the repairs are carried out, the risk of flooding remains. Officials cautioned that if heavy rain overwhelms the pumps, water could return to the junction.

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Making a splash: Swansea swim school wins gold accreditation from Swim Wales

The charitable and not‑for‑profit trust, which manages 29 leisure centres across Wales, was awarded the highest quality mark available for delivering the Learn to Swim Wales programme. The Gold Accreditation recognises excellence in governance, sustainability and effectiveness in swimming education, going beyond basic industry standards and safeguarding guidelines.

A milestone for Swansea

Freedom Leisure manages Swansea’s leisure centres on behalf of the city council and currently supports around 4,000 swimmers through its Learn to Swim programme. The scheme is delivered by a highly skilled team of teachers, offering lessons to both children and adults.

Chief Executive Officer Ivan Horsfall Turner said the award was a proud moment:

“We are delighted to have been Gold Accredited by Swim Wales for our Learn to Swim programme and extremely proud to be the first leisure operator in Wales to have achieved this accolade.”

He added that the partnership with Swim Wales helps provide children and adults with confidence in the water, particularly important in coastal areas such as Swansea.

Recognition from Swim Wales

Swim Wales Chief Executive Officer Fergus Feeney praised the achievement:

“This distinction demonstrates a sustained commitment to excellence in swimming education, ensuring that children and adults across Swansea have access to the highest standard of opportunities to acquire a vital life skill.”

Learn to Swim Manager Hanna Guise added that Freedom Leisure had shown “just how committed they are to providing their learners with the highest quality learn to swim offer,” setting a benchmark for other providers.

Local impact

Cllr Andrew Stevens, Cabinet Member for Environment & Infrastructure, said the award reflected the quality and dedication of the team:

“It’s reassuring to know that our leisure centres – run on behalf of the council by Freedom Leisure – are providing such high‑quality tuition that is recognised nationally.”

He added that the recognition highlighted the strength of the partnership between Swansea Council and Freedom Leisure, delivering opportunities that benefit residents of all ages.

#CllrAndrewStevens #FreedomLeisure #LearnToSwimWales #LeisureCentre #Penlan #PenlanLeisureCentre #Swansea #SwanseaCouncil #SwanseaLeisureCentres #SwimWales #swimming

Council sets out plan to keep new-look Mumbles Prom clean and welcoming

Targeted cleaning after public concerns

The prom, which reopened in July following a multi‑million pound sea defence and improvement project, has been regularly maintained by cleansing teams. But after reports of stones spilling from planting areas and staining beneath new benches, the council has carried out additional targeted cleaning.

Cabinet member for community services Cyril Anderson said:

“It’s important we keep the area safe and attractive for everyone. Stones from the beautiful planting areas on the prom have spilled onto the walkway itself. There’s staining in areas such as underneath new benches; people are spilling drinks, food and other products. We’ve undertaken additional cleaning, specifically in those areas – and the results have been encouraging.”

Specialist equipment proves effective

Council cleansing teams recently focused on the new sea defence wall and seating areas, using mechanical brush machines with specialist attachments to tackle stubborn stains. The work was carried out despite high footfall from pedestrians and cyclists, and drew positive feedback from visitors who praised the improved appearance.

Scheduled work plan in development

Council leader Rob Stewart said the authority is now drawing up a scheduled work plan to ensure the prom remains clean and welcoming.

“Our team has completed jetting work and we’re now drawing up a scheduled work plan to keep the prom as clean as possible. We’ll continue to monitor the area and factor similar operations into our ongoing cleansing programme,” he said.

Prom project designed for the long term

The Mumbles Prom reopened this summer after a major project that strengthened sea defences to protect the community from storms and the effects of climate change for decades to come. The scheme also included improvements to the look and feel of the seafront, designed to make it more attractive for local people and visitors.

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#cleansing #CleansingOperative #CllrCyrilAnderson #CllrRobStewart #Mumbles #MumblesPromenade #pavementStains #Swansea #SwanseaCouncil

Council blames collapsed culvert — not drains — for Cwmbwrla flooding

Heavy duty pumps ‘overwhelmed’

In a Facebook post, the council said the culvert lies around 12 metres below the surface and remains the responsibility of the club’s representatives to repair. While demolition of the building is almost complete, the next stage will be to excavate and fix the culvert.

In the meantime, the council has deployed heavy duty pumping equipment to divert water at the blockage point. But it admitted that during periods of heavy rainfall, such as this week, the pumps “can become overwhelmed and simply cannot cope with the volume of water flowing beneath the road.”

Public frustration acknowledged

The authority said it understood public anger at repeated flooding at the roundabout, but stressed its intervention could only have “limited impact” until the culvert is repaired.

“This situation will only be resolved when the private culvert has been unblocked and repaired, allowing water to flow freely through the network. Until then, the location remains at risk of further flooding during severe weather,” the council said.

Drains not to blame, says council

The council also rejected suggestions that blocked gullies or drains were behind the flooding. It said all watercourses in the immediate area had been checked and cleared, and would continue to be maintained.

Roundabout remains closed

The roundabout remains shut to traffic, with diversions in place. The council said it would provide further updates on reopening once conditions allowed.

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#blockedDrains #blockedGullies #culvert #Cwmbwrla #cwmbwrlaFlooding #CwmbwrlaRoundabout #CwmfelinSocialCLub #Environment #flooding #SwanseaCouncil

Cwmbwrla roundabout submerged again as flooding hits Swansea and wider region

Cars stranded as roundabout goes under water

Several vehicles were left almost completely submerged after floodwater engulfed Cwmbwrla roundabout on Tuesday afternoon (4 November). South Wales Police said the junction was “not passable from any approach” and urged drivers to avoid the area, while Swansea Council confirmed its highways team was on site.

By Wednesday morning, the roundabout remained closed, with diversions in place via Pentregethin Road. Council teams worked through the night to pump water away, but warned heavy and prolonged rainfall had overwhelmed equipment.

Blocked culvert blamed for repeated flooding

The council said the flooding was again linked to a blocked culvert beneath the site of the recently demolished Cwmfelin Social Club, which it stressed remains the responsibility of the club to repair.

In a statement, the authority said:

“The culvert underneath the recently demolished Cwmfelin social club is still blocked and is the main cause of this ongoing problem. We have brought in pumping equipment to assist with the flow of water. However, heavy and prolonged rainfall means the pumping equipment could be overwhelmed and it may be necessary for further closures of this route until the culvert is repaired.”

This is the second time in six weeks that Cwmbwrla has been submerged, with residents and businesses still recovering from earlier flooding in September.

Pub near the roundabout forced to evacuate

The Gatehouse pub, which sits just above Cwmbwrla roundabout on Carmarthen Road, was among the businesses hit by the flooding. Customers were forced to evacuate as water entered the premises, echoing scenes from September when the venue was also affected.

Wider disruption across Swansea

Flooding was also reported on Heol Las, Pantlassau Road, Ynysymond Road, the Christopher Road/Clydach Road junction and Capel Road, though the council said these routes were later cleared.

In Carmarthenshire, the Cresselly Arms in Pontargothi was also hit, with the landlady describing it as the second such incident in six weeks.

Dozens of flood alerts across Wales

Natural Resources Wales confirmed more than 50 flood alerts and warnings were in place by Wednesday morning, with the heaviest rainfall recorded on south‑facing slopes of the Bannau Brycheiniog.

The Met Office had issued a yellow weather warning for rain across South Wales, which remained in force until 8am Wednesday.

Council promises continued work

Swansea Council said its highways teams would remain on site at Cwmbwrla until the roundabout could be safely reopened.

“We are doing everything we can to reopen the road as soon as possible,” the authority said. “We apologise for the inconvenience to your journey.”

Related stories from Swansea Bay News

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#Cwmbwrla #cwmbwrlaFlooding #CwmbwrlaRoundabout #CwmfelinSocialCLub #featured #flooding #Swansea #SwanseaCouncil

Sketty school leads charge in battery recycling competition

Swansea Council’s recycling mascot Sammy the Seagull flew in to congratulate the pupils and staff and present them with Amazon vouchers for school use while council Cabinet Member for Education Robert Smith presented them with a certificate in recognition of their achievement.  

The council teamed up with the European Recycling Platform (ERP) to run the inaugural competition which saw 29 schools take part in the last academic year.

Between all the schools that took part they recycled over a tonne in weight of batteries.

Sketty Primary topped the leaderboard while Ysgol Gynradd Gymraeg Tirdeunaw came second and Brynmill Primary third.

All schools finishing in the Top 10 won vouchers for their efforts.

Council Cabinet Member for Community Services, Cyril Anderson, said:

“I’d like to congratulate Sketty Primary and all the schools that took part.

“Batteries contain some of the most valuable materials on earth that are infinitely recyclable, but when they are thrown in with general rubbish, they can get crushed in bin lorries and spark dangerous fires so should always be recycled.

“The success of this year’s competition means we are re-running the competition this academic year and 38 schools are already registered and taking part.

“There is still time for other schools to join in – just contact our recycling team by emailing recycling@swansea.gov.uk.”

Simon Lloyd-Jones, deputy headteacher at Sketty Primary, said:

“Our whole school community at Sketty were so committed to the school’s battery recycling competition last year. We are delighted to have collected the most batteries, and are already collecting in readiness for this year.”

David Meehan, Head of Operations at ERP UK, added:

“ERP is delighted with the results attained by Swansea Council in this year’s Schools Batteries Campaign. It shows what can be achieved when we come together to reach our goal of getting household batteries out of black bags and into recycling. 

“We are proud of the efforts made by schools, pupils, and the council. Getting this campaign off the ground each year takes time and commitment from all, and the results speak for themselves.” 

#EuropeanRecyclingPlatform #SkettyPrimarySchool #SwanseaCouncil

Funding secured for free food, activities and welcoming places

As part of Swansea Council’s #HereForYouThisWinter campaign, 56 organisations have successfully applied for the Holiday Food Fund that will this year see some offering free food to school-aged children who need it during the October half-term, as well as the Christmas and February breaks.

Ninety-four clubs and groups putting on free or low-cost activities for children and young people have been offered funding, along with a further 55 working with older adults.

The council is also supporting 62 Swansea Spaces to offer warm and welcoming places for people to meet, socialise and take part in activities if they wish.

Grants have also been offered to 48 organisations who provide emergency food support such as food banks, cooking schemes and community cafes.

Among the more than 300 successful applications was Glais Community Centre which will run a Swansea Space this winter, provide food to pupils during the holidays as well as to families and individuals that need it via its foodbank and hold a Christmas Party to bring older people in the community together.

Eleanore Williams, Chair of Glais Community Centre, said:

“A lot of people who come here are lonely. Ladies have told us it’s the only time they mix with other people – and some even get taxis here from other communities. As well as a variety of activities at the centre, we run trips as well. The centre is used every day of the week.”

Pat Griffiths regularly attends the Community Centre for events and activities said:

“The activities at the community centre are very important because there are a lot of older ladies on their own in this area, so this gives everyone a great social outlet. We also get lots of young people coming along too – sometimes people’s grandchildren. It’s a lovely atmosphere.

“We never go home from the community centre without having a laugh. There’s never a sad face and we very much look forward to seeing one-another every week.”

Swansea Council Leader Rob Stewart said:

“This winter we are again doing all we can to ensure that no one goes hungry and that there are places for people to go in communities across Swansea to socialise to reduce loneliness and exclusion.

“There will also be lots of free and low cost events and activities for young and older people.

“In addition to these grants there will be targeted help for families and individuals via the councillor voucher scheme and we are again running free bus travel on certain dates in the run-up to Christmas and New year holiday periods, supporting businesses and saving families of four up to £20 per day in travel costs.”

Council Cabinet Member for Wellbeing, Alyson Anthony, said:

“This funding makes a very real difference to thousands of people.

“In the last year alone, around 100,000 meals were provided to pupils who may otherwise have gone without during the winter and summer holidays. This is in addition to direct funding for food banks and other emergency food providers.

“We will also be continuing to work hand in hand with the Cwtch Mawr Multibank, which has provided close to a million new essential household items and clothing to people in the region since it launched last year.

Council Cabinet Member for Community Support, Hayley Gwilliam, added:

“We will again be supporting the network of Swansea Spaces, with more than 60 people being offered funding this winter to provide inclusive and welcoming spaces for people to socialise.

“By providing funding to our many partners we are maximising every bit of support we can provide to help people in communities across Swansea this winter.”

#GlaisCommunityCentre #HereForYouThisWinter #SwanseaCouncil

Swansea Council’s benefits and council tax team to move into new city centre hub

The council says the move will bring one of its busiest frontline services into a modern, central location designed to make it easier for people to get help.

Supporting thousands of households

According to the council, the revenues and benefits team deals with around 15,000 in‑person visits every year. Staff handle everything from council tax bills and reductions, to housing benefit claims, business rates, social care finance, free school meals and the “passport to leisure” scheme.

The council says there will be no disruption to services during the transition, with the team continuing to operate from the Civic Centre until Y Storfa opens later this year.

“More modern and accessible”

Cllr Andrew Williams, Cabinet Member for Corporate Services, said the move would make it easier for residents to access vital support.

“Our revenues and benefits team provides essential financial support and advice to thousands of residents every year.

Moving to Y Storfa will mean we can offer these services in a more modern, central and accessible location,” he said.

The council says the relocation will also bring the team alongside Housing Options and Housing Support services, which are also moving to Y Storfa. Officials argue this will mean people no longer have to travel between multiple sites to get the help they need.

A one‑stop hub for services

The council says Y Storfa, based in the former BHS store on Oxford Street, is being developed as a community hub bringing together a wide range of services under one roof.

Alongside revenues and benefits, it will also house Swansea Central Library, the West Glamorgan Archive Service, the council’s contact centre, Citizens Advice, Careers Wales and the South Wales Miners’ Library.

Civic Centre redevelopment on the horizon

The council is working with regeneration specialists Urban Splash on proposals for the Civic Centre site. Plans are expected to be published for public feedback once finalised.

#benefits #featured #Swansea #SwanseaCouncil