Feedback chance for new public sector hub proposal

Residents and businesses can soon give feedback on a proposal for a major new public sector hub development that's aimed at boosting Swansea city centre and the local economy.

The public sector hub being earmarked for land at the former St David's Shopping Centre site would include commercial floor space for shops and restaurants, with the council occupying office space above with a range of other public sector partners.

Made up of four floors above ground level and one floor below, close to 1,000 workers could be based there.

The public sector hub would enable the redevelopment of the Civic Centre site on the seafront, while also supporting city centre traders because of the footfall it would create.

Swansea Council and Urban Splash would develop the proposed public sector hub, with ownership retained by the council. This would form the first phase of the overall site's development being led by Urban Splash, who are continuing to work on plans for the rest of the site.

Urban Splash are also continuing to work on proposals for the Civic Centre site, which will be made available for public feedback as soon as they're finalised.

Subject to consultation and planning permission, construction work on the public sector hub is anticipated to start in mid-2025.

At this stage feedback will be sought on the design and look of the building, which would meet the highest standards of sustainability.

Cllr Rob Stewart, Swansea Council Leader, said: "Swansea city centre needs more people working and living there to support existing traders and employment, create new jobs and encourage more shops and other businesses to open in future.

"The proposed public sector hub will help meet that need because of the amount of extra workers who'll be spending their money in the city centre's restaurants, shops, cafes and other businesses.

"Subject to consultation feedback and planning approval, its construction would form part of the next phase of the city centre's £1bn transformation, following-on from schemes like Swansea Arena, the restoration of the Palace Theatre and the new office development for private sector tenants which is taking shape at 71/72 The Kingsway.

"The scheme is part of our commitment to regenerate Swansea city centre and create a leading destination for visiting, enjoying, working, living and studying."

Urban Splash development director David Warburton said: "We look forward to working with the local community. We hope to incorporate their feedback to ensure these proposals for the creation of a vibrant commercial hub with excellent amenities, job opportunities, and a thriving new ecosystem, meet the city's long-term needs."

Drop-in information and consultation event

A drop-in information and consultation event for the proposed new public sector hub is taking place from Tuesday 13 August to Thursday 15 August at the former Cranes music shop unit on St David's Place in the area of the former St David's Shopping Centre site.

The times of the consultation are: