Public consultation to help define future of city centre and waterfront
RESIDENTS across Swansea are being invited to help shape the future of the city centre and waterfront as plans move forward for a major new long-term regeneration strategy.
Swansea Council’s cabinet is set to consider approval for a public consultation on a new draft “placemaking” plan, which sets out a vision for how the city centre and waterfront could develop over the next decade.
The draft plan, which is being published specifically to allow residents to influence the final version, covers a wide range of proposals – from new homes and job creation to improved public spaces, walking and cycling routes, cultural activity and major regeneration opportunities.
If cabinet approval is given on February 19, the consultation will run from late February through most of March, giving people across the city the opportunity to have their say.
A summary version of the plan will also be published in an accessible, easy-to-understand format to ensure as many residents as possible can take part.
Robert Francis-Davies, Swansea Council’s cabinet member for investment, regeneration, events and tourism, said the consultation would give people a genuine voice in shaping their city.
“This consultation will give residents a real opportunity to shape the future of their city centre and waterfront.
“Swansea has already seen huge change in recent years as part of our £1bn regeneration programme, and this plan sets out the next steps in creating a greener, more vibrant and more welcoming city for everyone.
“I’d encourage as many people as possible to take part.”
The draft document – Future Swansea: A Placemaking Plan for Swansea City Centre and Waterfront – has been informed by earlier engagement with more than 1,200 residents, businesses and organisations.
It outlines proposed improvements across five key areas of the city centre and waterfront, alongside a series of priority regeneration projects aimed at strengthening Swansea as a place to live, work and visit.
The plan also sits alongside the council’s ongoing £1bn regeneration programme, which is already delivering new homes, major leisure destinations, office space, green infrastructure and improvements to the city’s cultural and visitor offer.
Council leaders say the consultation marks an important next step in ensuring future regeneration is shaped not only by policy and investment, but by the voices of the people who live and work in the city.
