MORE new features are being installed on the new-look Mumbles prom that’ll be largely open for Easter.
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 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 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 and 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.
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 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.
For more information, visit the council’s Mumbles coastal protection project webpage.
