Calls for “reset” as Swansea politicians demand new plan after WRU chair quits

The outgoing chair confirmed he will leave the Welsh Rugby Union in July, bringing an end to a turbulent period marked by financial turmoil, governance reform — and a bitter row over the future of the professional game.

Now, political and civic leaders who have repeatedly clashed with the WRU over its direction say his departure must trigger more than just a change of personnel.

“A reset is now needed”

Torsten Bell said it was “right” that Collier-Keywood had decided to step aside — but warned the problems at the heart of Welsh rugby go far deeper.

He said:

“It’s not just that on his watch the organisation brought forward the wrong plan for the future of Welsh rugby, but that they went about it in absolutely the wrong way.

“The truth is that the approach of trying to ride roughshod over near universal opposition to push through chaotic changes simply couldn’t work.

“We now need a reset… There needs to be a new plan and new way of working, not just a new face at the top.”

“Fans have made this happen”

Rob Stewart struck a similar tone, suggesting the decision to step down shows the strength of opposition from clubs, supporters and the wider rugby public.

He said:

“So it looks like the EGM motion has now already succeeded without a vote being cast!

“There is a chance now for the WRU to change course and re-engage with fans, clubs, players and the public.

“Well done to the fantastic rugby public who have clearly made this happen.”

Crisis months in the making

The WRU has faced months of mounting pressure over plans to overhaul the professional game — including proposals that could see one of Wales’ four regions cut.

That prospect sparked fierce backlash across the country, particularly in Swansea where concerns have centred on the future of the Ospreys.

Tensions escalated as clubs moved to force an Extraordinary General Meeting, while political leaders and even a Senedd committee weighed in with criticism of how the plans had been developed and communicated.

Behind the scenes, rows over governance, transparency and decision-making deepened the crisis — with accusations the WRU had failed to properly engage with stakeholders before pushing ahead.

Two visions for Welsh rugby

At the heart of the dispute is a fundamental disagreement over how to secure the future of the game.

WRU chief executive Abi Tierney has argued that reducing the number of professional teams is the only viable route to long-term sustainability, warning that without reform Welsh rugby risks “destroying itself” financially.

But that position has been challenged by an alternative proposal led by Rob Regan, the former Chief Operating Officer of Principality Building Society.

His plan sets out a different path — one that would retain all four regions while restructuring the game’s finances and governance to make it sustainable without cutting a team.

The existence of that rival blueprint has given fresh momentum to critics of the WRU’s approach, strengthening calls for a rethink rather than a reset under the same strategy.

What happens next?

Collier-Keywood will remain in post until July, with the WRU now set to begin the process of appointing a successor.

But with the EGM looming and pressure continuing to build, attention is rapidly shifting away from who leads the organisation — and towards what direction it takes next.

For many in Swansea and across Welsh rugby, the key question is no longer just about leadership.

It’s about whether the WRU sticks to its controversial plan — or whether this moment forces a fundamental change of course.

#CllrRobStewart #Ospreys #RichardCollierKeywood #TorstenBellMP #WRU

FERRY FARCE? Doubts grow over Swansea crossing as ‘fairy story’ jibe lands

The proposed Bristol Channel crossing – linking Swansea with south-west England – has been talked up as a game-changer for travel and jobs.

But cracks are starting to show.

At a tense council meeting this week, opposition councillor Stuart Rice questioned whether the scheme was realistic at all, asking leader Rob Stewart if it was “more of a fairy story than a ferry story”.

The comments come just days after a new report suggested the idea had a “compelling” economic case and overwhelming public backing, with strong support recorded for a Swansea-based service.

The proposal centres on a high-speed, low-emission ferry capable of carrying hundreds of passengers and vehicles across the Bristol Channel – with backers claiming it could slash journey times and ease pressure on major roads.

But despite the optimism, key details remain missing.

No ports have been confirmed.

No vessel has been designed.

And no firm agreements are in place with partners across the water.

Even Swansea Council has admitted in responses seen by reporters that no formal discussions have taken place with councils in Devon or Somerset in recent years.

That raises serious questions about how close – or how far – the plan really is.

Cllr Stewart defended the project, insisting it was worth exploring.

“I don’t think there is anything really to knock on this one,” he said, arguing journey times could be cut dramatically and that Swansea’s appeal would draw visitors.

He also stressed the ferry would not just be about passengers – but freight too, boosting its viability.

But others are not convinced.

Liberal Democrat group leader Chris Holley backed the idea in principle but warned there were practical issues – including whether vessels could even dock close to the city centre.

He pointed to past problems with ferry schemes, including vessels being unable to pass through Swansea’s lock gates.

Meanwhile, concerns have also been raised that passengers could simply drive straight out of the city via the M4 – limiting the economic boost locally.

Adding to the uncertainty, the report behind the plans admits major hurdles remain.

These include dealing with the Bristol Channel’s extreme tidal range, designing specialist vessels, and building the necessary port infrastructure.

And in a new twist, Burry Port has quietly emerged as a potential landing site – despite there being no detail yet on how a ferry could operate from a harbour known for having one of the highest tidal ranges in the world.

Now, Carmarthenshire Council has confirmed it has not been involved in any talks.

Director Ainsley Williams said: “There have been no discussions on specific proposals relating directly to Carmarthenshire at this time.

“We remain open to further discussions should any formal proposals come forward.”

That lack of engagement will raise eyebrows given the scale of what’s being suggested.

Elsewhere, questions remain about where the ferry would land in England, with Ilfracombe already ruled out and larger ports like Bideford mentioned as alternatives.

For now, the ferry remains firmly in the “idea” stage.

And while supporters point to potential benefits like cutting congestion on the M4 and M5 and boosting tourism, critics say the fundamentals are still missing.

For people across Swansea Bay, it leaves a simple question.

Is this the start of a bold new transport link – or just another grand plan that never leaves the drawing board?

What do you think – ferry future or fairy tale?

#BristolChannelFerry #BurryPort #BurryPortHarbour #Carmarthenshire #CllrChrisHolley #CllrRobStewart #CllrStuartRice #Ferry #Swansea #SwanseaCouncil #SwanseaFerry

SWANSEA: Ospreys lifeline as council seals historic St Helen’s deal

Swansea Council has struck a landmark deal with the Ospreys in a move being hailed as a potential lifeline for professional rugby in west Wales.

The agreement will see millions invested into the historic St Helen’s ground, transforming it into a dual-use home for both elite rugby and community sport.

Council leaders say the plan could reshape the future of the game in Swansea — at a time when fears over the Ospreys’ survival have dominated headlines.

Swansea Council leader Rob Stewart speaks to media at St Helen’s after sealing the deal with the Ospreys
(Image: Swansea Council)

The partnership, approved by the council’s Cabinet, is being described as the first of its kind in the UK, bringing a local authority and a professional team together in a joint long-term investment.

Under the proposals, the council will fund improvements aimed at community use, including a new pitch and upgraded floodlights.

Meanwhile, the Ospreys will invest in facilities designed to attract crowds back to the sport, including a new stand, fan zone and broadcast infrastructure.

Local schoolchildren join Ospreys players at St Helen’s as the new community-focused rugby model is unveiled
(Image: Swansea Council)

It follows months of uncertainty over the future of the region, with the Ospreys at the centre of a bitter national row over plans to cut a Welsh team — a crisis we’ve been tracking closely in our ongoing coverage of the WRU civil war.

At the height of the turmoil, Swansea Council launched legal action and even sought to block controversial plans that could have seen the Ospreys effectively wiped out, as reported when the authority went to the High Court in a dramatic bid to stop the deal.

Now, council leader Rob Stewart says this new agreement is about securing the region’s future — and restoring confidence in the game.

He said: “Welsh rugby cannot afford to lose the Ospreys. That’s why we have stepped up and secured this agreement.”

He added: “This is a blueprint for how rugby can thrive in our region and across Wales.”

Council leader Rob Stewart with Ospreys players and officials at St Helen’s following the announcement of the new Swansea rugby model

Cllr Stewart also stressed the wider benefits for the city, saying the Ospreys are “a massive part of our culture” and bring millions into the local economy every year.

He said: “By investing in St Helen’s, we’re creating a fantastic facility for the community — opening the doors to schools, local clubs and young players taking their first steps in the game.”

The deal will also see Welsh rugby legend Alun Wyn Jones take on a key role in overseeing the new model, joining a Swansea Rugby Community Board.

Cllr Stewart said his involvement would be vital, adding: “Having such a rugby icon involved will be invaluable in ensuring we get the right pathway for our children.”

A state-of-the-art 4G pitch is set to be installed at St Helen’s, allowing the Ospreys to play matches there as early as next season.

But the venue won’t just be for elite sport — schools, local clubs and community groups will have regular access throughout the week.

Key figures gather at St Helen’s as Swansea Council and the Ospreys agree a landmark partnership
(Image: Swansea Council)

Cllr Stewart said: “Working in partnership, we will deliver a community programme that inspires young people and creates a clear pathway from school and local club rugby through to the Ospreys.”

Council bosses say the aim is to reconnect the professional and grassroots game, boosting participation among young people while improving health and wellbeing across the area.

The Ospreys are also expected to expand their community programme significantly, with more school sessions, coaching opportunities and open training events.

For Swansea fans, the move signals a dramatic shift after months of crisis, protests and political pressure over the future of the region.

The hope now is that St Helen’s can become a symbol of renewal — not just for the Ospreys, but for rugby across Swansea Bay.

Related stories from Swansea Bay News

St Helen’s stadium revival plan unveiled as Swansea Council moves ahead amid Ospreys uncertainty
Earlier plans revealed the scale of ambition for redeveloping the historic ground.

Council goes to High Court as Swansea seeks urgent injunction to stop WRU deal
Legal action showed how far the council was willing to go to protect the Ospreys.

Seismic showdown: WRU confirms date for fight for survival EGM
The wider Welsh rugby crisis that put the future of the Ospreys in doubt.

#CllrRobStewart #featured #grassrootsRugby #Ospreys #StHelensStadium #StHelensSwansea #SwanseaCouncil #WRU

£14bn metro dream for Swansea – but will West Wales finally get its share?

The ambitious vision from Transport for Wales forms part of a £14bn programme backed by the UK and Welsh governments, with leaders claiming it could transform travel, boost business and create thousands of jobs across South West Wales.

Electrification, new stations and metro links

At the heart of the plans is long-awaited electrification of the main line between Cardiff and Swansea — a move expected to cut journey times and increase capacity.

New stations at Landore and Winch Wen are also proposed, alongside a string of potential metro hubs across the city including Pontlliw, Felindre, Morriston, Llandarcy and Cockett.

There are also plans to improve rail links westwards to communities including Ammanford, Pembrey, St Clears, Milford Haven and Pembroke Dock — areas long calling for better connections.

Further down the line, a £1bn light rail expansion could link Swansea to Neath and Tonna, running through the city centre and waterfront in a move designed to bring trams back to the region.

Proposed Swansea Bay Metro and tram-train routes showing new stations, connections and future expansion plans across the region.
(Image: Transport for Wales / Swansea Council)

“Generational change” promised

Rob Stewart said the plans could be a turning point for the regional economy.

“We all want to see better rail links into Swansea and across South West Wales,” he said.

“Transport links from London and the rest of UK to our part of Wales are critical to help deliver a strong local economy.”

He added that electrification and wider investment would “create thousands of jobs in construction and secure thousands more in the long term”.

The council is also banking on sweeping bus reforms to tie the network together, with a new franchising model aimed at delivering “one timetable and one ticket” across rail and bus services.

Transport leaders and politicians present detailed plans for new stations and improved rail links under the Swansea Bay Metro proposals
(Image: Swansea Council)

Linking jobs, hospitals and major attractions

Stewart said new stations would play a key role in connecting people to jobs and services.

“Having a network of new stations across Swansea will be critical in terms of providing direct public transport links to hospitals, major employers including the DVLA and the Enterprise Zone in Llansamlet,” he said.

“They will also serve major attractions including the new Skyline development, Penderyn Distillery and the Swansea.com Stadium.”

Political backing – but pressure remains

Ken Skates said the plans marked “exciting times ahead” for transport in the region, while Swansea West MP Torsten Bell said the project could help reverse years of underinvestment.

“Swansea has been let down by years of underinvestment in our rail system,” he said.

“This consultation is an important opportunity to feed into the development of this vital new infrastructure.”

But will it actually happen?

Despite the bold vision, the announcement comes against a backdrop of frustration in South West Wales — with previous promises failing to materialise.

Swansea Bay News has previously reported anger over the lack of progress on schemes like the long-delayed St Clears station, as well as criticism that the region has been “forgotten” in wider UK rail investment.

There have also been renewed calls for major projects like a multi-million pound rail link to Aberystwyth, while passengers continue to demand better reliability despite recent improvements in punctuality.

Campaigners will also be disappointed that there is no mention of a tram route extending towards Swansea University and Mumbles.

The £14bn plan has been hailed as “generational” — but for many across Swansea, Neath Port Talbot and Carmarthenshire, the real test will be whether it finally delivers on promises that have been years in the making.

Transport and rail: more from Swansea Bay News

St Clears station delay sparks anger
Calls grow for action after years of promises with no construction.

£775m rail link calls return
Fresh push for a Carmarthen to Aberystwyth line in major report.

£14bn rail row erupts
Politicians clash over whether Swansea is getting its fair share.

‘Forgotten again’ fury over rail snub
Anger as new stations announced elsewhere — but not in West Wales.

Rail punctuality improves — but concerns remain
Performance rises, but passengers say more must be done.

#CllrRobStewart #CockettStation #electrification #featured #FelindreStation #LandoreStation #lightRail #LlandarcyStation #MorristonStation #PontlliwStation #publicTransport #rail #SwanseaBayMetro #SwanseaCouncil #TorstenBellMP #tram #tramTrain #TransportForWales #WinchWenStation

St Helen’s stadium revival plan unveiled as Swansea Council moves ahead amid Ospreys uncertainty

Council leader Rob Stewart said the future of the ground had been held back by unresolved questions around Welsh rugby.

“The future of St Helen’s has been on hold due to ongoing discussions about regional rugby in Wales which are unlikely to end anytime soon,” he said.

“The WRU is not giving us the answers we need to move forward despite our requests, such as how Y11 can own two teams for a long period of time. In light of the impending EGM, I doubt the WRU knows where it is going.”

Moving ahead despite uncertainty

Stewart said Swansea must now act rather than wait for clarity from the Welsh Rugby Union.

“We must break that deadlock in the meantime and find how we can move forward as a city despite the WRU’s lack of answers,” he said.

“We propose to create a new model that strengthens both professional and grassroots rugby across Swansea and the Ospreys region.”

New vision for St Helen’s

The plans would see St Helen’s redeveloped into a modern rugby venue centred on a new all-weather 4G pitch. The surface would be used by the Ospreys for matchdays and weekly team run-outs, while also being opened up to Swansea RFC, schools, clubs and community groups for the rest of the week.

Stewart said the aim is to create a facility that serves both elite sport and the wider community.

“Our joint investment would give the Ospreys a home worthy of professional rugby while opening up this iconic ground to the community like never before.”

Under the proposed model, the council would fund key community-focused upgrades including the pitch and floodlights, while the Ospreys would deliver professional-level improvements such as a new stand, fan zone and broadcast facilities.

The St Helens Stadium in Swansea
(Image: Swansea Council)

Focus on grassroots rugby

The proposals also include a significant expansion of community rugby activity, with the Ospreys expected to deliver club nights, school sessions, open training events and coaching development opportunities.

“For the first time in many years, children and young people will have access to a safe, modern, central facility — whatever the weather,” Stewart said.

“This model strengthens the player pathway by linking clubs, schools, colleges and the Ospreys Academy.”

A new Swansea Rugby Community Board is also proposed to help ensure the redevelopment delivers long-term benefits for local people, while former Wales captain Alun Wyn Jones has agreed to work with the council on the project.

Ospreys return in sight

The Ospreys say they have been working with the council for months on the proposals and believe the plan could allow them to return to Swansea as early as next season while expanding their community work.

Stewart added: “This continues our support for the Ospreys remaining as a professional rugby region based in Swansea.”

Ospreys at St Helens
(Image: Swansea Council)

Decision within days

The proposals are due to be considered by the council’s cabinet this week, with work potentially starting in April if approved.

The council has also confirmed its legal action over the WRU’s proposed Y11 deal is continuing — underlining the wider uncertainty surrounding the future of Welsh rugby.

Ospreys crisis: key stories

Swansea unites as Ospreys crisis deepens
Councillors back the region amid growing fears over its future.

Council takes legal action over WRU deal
High Court move aims to block a plan that could end the Ospreys.

‘Smoking gun’ minutes revealed
Documents fuel claims the region’s future was already decided.

WRU sets date for crunch showdown
Emergency meeting could shape the future of Welsh rugby.

Alun Wyn Jones warns of ‘rugby black hole’
Legend speaks out over fears for the region’s future.

WRU boss quits before key vote
Leadership turmoil adds to growing pressure on the union.

#AlunWynJones #CllrRobStewart #communitySport #featured #Ospreys #Rugby #StHelenSStadium #StHelensStadium #StHelensSwansea #Swansea #SwanseaCouncil #SwanseaRugbyCommunityBoard #WRU

DYFATTY CRIME CRACKDOWN: Major police operation targets Swansea hotspot

The Dyfatty Clear Hold Build project is now underway, targeting long-standing issues linked to serious organised crime, anti-social behaviour and community safety concerns in the area around High Street North and nearby tower blocks.

Led by South Wales Police alongside the city council and other agencies, the operation is being described as a “long overdue” intervention for residents.

Map outlining the Dyfatty area targeted under the Clear Hold Build programme
(Image: South Wales Police)

‘Long overdue’ action

Chief Superintendent Stephen Jones said the first phase will focus on removing criminal influence and protecting vulnerable people.

He said many residents have been forced to live with the impact of organised crime for years — despite having no connection to it themselves.

“This work is long overdue for the people who live in Dyfatty,” he said.

Residents, officials and partners attend the launch of the Building a Better Dyfatty programme
(Image: South Wales Police)Chief Superintendent Stephen Jones addresses partners at the project launch event in High Street
(Image: South Wales Police)

Three-phase plan to transform the area

The scheme follows the national Clear Hold Build model — a strategy backed by the Home Office.

• Clear phase: A year-long police-led crackdown targeting offenders and disrupting criminal networks
• Hold phase: Stabilising the area and preventing gangs from returning
• Build phase: Long-term investment to tackle the root causes of crime

Officials say the aim is not just arrests — but lasting change.

Millions pledged to ‘transform’ Dyfatty

Council leader Rob Stewart said the project will work alongside a separate regeneration programme expected to bring up to £20 million into the area over the next decade.

He said the combined efforts would help “clean up and stabilise” Dyfatty while supporting long-term improvements.

The initiative is being coordinated through the Swansea Public Services Board, which includes partners such as Swansea Bay University Health Board and Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service.

Community at the heart of the plan

Chair of the board, Andrea Harrington, said the project would focus on listening to residents and working with local communities to deliver change.

She described Dyfatty as a diverse area facing a range of challenges — but said partners were committed to creating a safer, stronger neighbourhood.

Related stories from Swansea Bay News

Dyfatty set for £20m investment boost
Plans aim to transform the area over the next decade with major regeneration funding.

Police crackdown on Dyfatty anti-social behaviour
Dispersal powers introduced after rising incidents in the area.

Three arrested after armed police incident
Officers responded to a disturbance at flats, with arrests made following an investigation.

Dyfatty flats set for major upgrade
Multi-million pound plans to improve ageing council tower blocks.

Major makeover for Croft Street flats
More than 100 homes to benefit from upgrades including new kitchens and security.

CCTV upgrade at problem tower blocks
New security measures installed to tackle crime and anti-social behaviour.

New anti-social behaviour powers proposed
Council seeks views on tougher measures to deal with persistent issues.

High-rise flats evacuated after major damage
Residents forced out following a serious incident in a Swansea tower block.

High Street revival plans gather pace
Community-led projects aim to bring new life to Swansea city centre.

#ClearHoldBuild #CllrAndreaHarrington #CllrRobStewart #CrimeReduction #Dyfatty #HighStreet #PublicServicesBoard #SouthWalesPolice #Swansea #SwanseaCouncil

Free bus rides return for Easter as Swansea families urged to “leave the car at home”

Council leader Rob Stewart confirmed the scheme will run across eight days during the school holidays, starting from March 28.

The move follows previous schemes that have already seen more than one million free journeys taken in Swansea.

£450,000 set aside

The council has earmarked £450,000 from this year’s budget to fund not just the Easter offer – but free buses again in the summer and Christmas holidays too.

That means families could continue to benefit from the scheme throughout the year.

Save up to £20 a trip

Rob Stewart said the initiative is designed to ease the pressure on household budgets during what can be an expensive time.

He said families could save up to £20 per trip, encouraging people to ditch the car and spend that money elsewhere instead.

Cllr Stewart said: “Since we launched the offer people have enjoyed more than 1m free bus rides.

“Easter can be an expensive time for everyone but we’re committed to ensuring families in Swansea can save a bit of money on travel costs, leave the car at home and save their petrol money to spend on other things, saving up to £20 a time for family of four.

“The city centre is a great shopping destination in itself for people wanting to take a free trip. But it is also about giving the public the chance to travel all across Swansea, whether it’s to visit family members or just enjoy to what Swansea has to offer.”

Cutting traffic and boosting buses

Cabinet member Andrew Stevens said the scheme also aims to get more people onto public transport.

He added that many residents still rely on cars – and the free travel offer is a chance to get them trying buses for the first time, while also helping reduce congestion on local roads.

“It’s important we support public transport operators in Swansea and do what we can to increase passenger numbers.” Cllr Stevens said.

When are buses free?

Free travel will be available on:

• Saturday 28 March
• Sunday 29 March
• Friday 3 April (Good Friday)
• Saturday 4 April
• Sunday 5 April (Easter Sunday)
• Monday 6 April (Easter Monday)
• Saturday 11 April
• Sunday 12 April 

Back again after popular demand

The Easter scheme builds on previous free bus initiatives covered by Swansea Bay News, which proved hugely popular with residents looking to cut costs and explore the city without worrying about fares.

With another school holiday around the corner, council bosses are now hoping even more people will jump on board.

More transport stories from Swansea Bay News

“Five years of promises” – calls to restart St Clears station project
Pressure mounts for action on a long-delayed rail link in Carmarthenshire.

Fuel fears grow as rationing plans emerge
Concerns over supply and rising costs raise questions for drivers and businesses.

Swansea motor giant hits 100
From a single garage to a UK powerhouse – the story behind a major local success.

NCP enters administration putting Swansea car parks at risk
Uncertainty grows over the future of key parking sites across the city.

#CllrRobStewart #Easter #freeBus #publicTransport #Swansea #SwanseaCouncil #SwanseaPublicTransport

£20m boost for Swansea Civic Centre days after MP’s call for action

In an opinion piece published by Swansea Bay News on Sunday, Mr Bell said reviving the Civic Centre should be the city’s “next big regeneration step” — and urged momentum behind the proposals.

Now, that push appears to have paid off.

The funding follows months of campaigning by the MP and is being described as a key step towards turning recently unveiled plans for the Civic Centre into reality — although it will still need to go through further checks, including due diligence and approval of a final business case, before it is formally released.

Those plans — drawn up with Swansea Council and development partners Urban Splash — would see the site transformed into a mixed-use destination, featuring cafes, bars, shops, workspaces and leisure space, alongside around 140 apartments and 15 commercial units.

Headline attractions include proposals for a saltwater lido and a new aquarium, with the latter designed as a “next generation” visitor experience combining live marine exhibits with cutting-edge digital technology.

The attraction is also expected to work closely with Swansea University’s marine experts, with a strong focus on education and conservation.

Swansea Bay News has charted the rapid progress of the scheme in recent weeks, from the release of the first artist impressions to cabinet backing and strong public interest during consultation.

But until now, a central question has remained: how the transformation would actually be funded.

The £20 million investment from the UK Government begins to answer that — and is expected to help unlock the next phase of the project as it moves beyond consultation, with a planning application anticipated later this year.

An artist’s impression showing how part of the redeveloped Civic Centre site could look, with new cafés, bars, leisure spaces and a busy seafront promenade.
(Image: Urban Splash / Swansea Council)

For decades, the Civic Centre has served as a base for council services, but with departments now relocating — including to the new Y Storfa hub — attention has quickly turned to the future of the prominent seafront complex.

Torsten Bell, MP for Swansea West said securing “major investment” in what he describes as an “iconic Swansea landmark” has been a “personal priority”.

Mr Bell said: “With £20m funding from the UK Labour Government, this is another big step forward for the city.

“With its prime spot overlooking the splendid curve of our beach, the building is crying out for a new lease of life. And that is exactly what we are going to give it, as we keep investing in Swansea’s future, not just remembering its past.

“Great progress has been made with the opening of Y Storfa and regeneration of the Palace Theatre. Works to improve Castle Gardens and open new offices from the Kingsway to St David’s are also underway. The momentum is real – it’s vital we harness it.”

He added that the Civic Centre funding is part of a wider package of UK Government investment in Swansea, including a further £20 million through the Pride in Place scheme, as well as commitments to rail improvements and the proposed Swansea Bay Metro.

A visual of the proposed Civic Centre plaza, featuring new public spaces, landscaping and a landmark aquarium building.
(Image: Urban Splash / Swansea Council)

Cllr Rob Stewart, Leader of Swansea Council, said the funding represented a major vote of confidence in the city’s wider regeneration plans.

He said: “We want to see the Civic Centre transformed into a high-quality landmark destination for living, working and enjoying, with new homes, independent businesses and leisure spaces that benefit local people while attracting more visitors to Swansea.”

He added that the waterfront site offered “one of the most spectacular locations in the UK” and said the investment would help the project move forward more quickly.

Jo Stevens, Secretary of State for Wales, said the funding would help unlock the full potential of the site.

She said: “This investment will help deliver ambitious plans for the Civic Centre and transform this part of the city, making the most of its spectacular location and strengthening Swansea as a destination for visitors.”

The redevelopment also forms part of a broader wave of regeneration across the city, linking the waterfront site with ongoing changes in the city centre and beyond.

If delivered, the scheme could provide a significant boost to the local economy, with estimates suggesting it could generate around £17 million a year and support more than 300 jobs across hospitality, retail, leisure and building management, alongside additional roles linked to the proposed aquarium.

While key details — including timelines for construction and how the scheme will be delivered — are still to be confirmed, a planning application is expected later this year as proposals continue to be developed.

The funding itself remains subject to final approvals, but the announcement marks the clearest sign yet that the recently revealed plans are now moving from ambition towards delivery.

And coming just days after the issue was put firmly back in the spotlight, it suggests momentum around Swansea’s Civic Centre is building fast.

#cityDevelopment #CivicCentre #CivicCentrePlans #civicCentreRedevelopment #CllrRobStewart #featured #JoStevens #PrideInPlace #PrideInPlaceFund #RobStewart #SwanseaBay #SwanseaBayMetro #SwanseaCivicCentre #SwanseaCouncil #SwanseaNews #SwanseaRegeneration #TorstenBell #TorstenBellMP #UKGovernment #UKGovernmentFunding #UrbanSplash #waterfrontRegeneration

Swansea motor giant hits 100 – from single garage to UK powerhouse

Day’s Motor Group, launched in 1926 by Charles Edward Manton Day on St Helen’s Road, has gone from a small Singer dealership to a major player employing more than 500 people across the UK.

And this week, the milestone was marked with a visit from Swansea Council leader Rob Stewart, who met with the Day family and staff to celebrate a century of success.

From those humble beginnings, the company struck up a long-standing partnership with Ford in 1934 — a relationship that still plays a central role in the business today.

Early workshop scenes show the company’s roots as a local garage businessThe business grew steadily from its Swansea beginnings into a major UK dealershipDay’s Motor Group in its early years on St Helen’s Road

Now in its fourth generation of family ownership, the firm is led by chairman Graham Day, alongside director Jill Day and CEO Russell Day.

Speaking during the visit, Russell Day said reaching the 100-year mark was a proud moment not just for the family — but for everyone who has been part of the company’s journey.

“This is an incredible milestone for our family and for the whole Day’s team,” he said.

“Our growth over the past century wouldn’t have been possible without the loyalty of our customers and the dedication of our colleagues.

“Swansea has always been at the heart of our story, and we’re proud to keep investing here while continuing to grow across the UK.”

He added that the anniversary isn’t just about looking back — but pushing forward.

“This milestone isn’t just about the past — it’s about the next chapter. We’re committed to investing in new technology, new skills and sustainable mobility right here in the region.”

Over the decades, the business has expanded far beyond its original site, now operating more than 14 locations and representing major global brands including Ford, Peugeot, IVECO, Chery and Geely.

It has also developed a number of successful divisions, including Day’s Fleet, Day’s Rental and Day’s Finance — helping cement its position as one of Wales’s leading automotive groups.

Day’s Motor Group now operates multiple sites across the UKThe company represents major global brands including Ford and Peugeot

Cllr Stewart praised the company as a shining example of Swansea success.

“Day’s Motor Group is a fantastic local success story,” he said.

“From its beginnings in Swansea a century ago to becoming one of Wales’s leading dealer groups, it shows what can be achieved through hard work, innovation and a real commitment to the community.

“It also proves Swansea is a place where businesses can grow, invest and create jobs — and that’s exactly what we want to see.”

The company has picked up a string of national awards over the years, including being named AM Best Dealership in the UK twice, alongside recognition from Motability and Investors in People.

And as it enters its second century, the message from the Day family is clear — Swansea remains firmly at the heart of everything they do.

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PENLAN: Selfies and fish and chips – First Minister’s ‘off-script’ surprise visit to Swansea social club

The Welsh leader made an unannounced appearance at the Penlan Social Club, catching supporters and staff off guard in a “no airs and graces” visit.

Organisers admit the night went “slightly off script” when the First Minister was found in a huddle with young people in the bar, posing for photos before her formal speech.

Ms Morgan arrived quietly and without fanfare, joining more than 80 people gathered for the launch of Welsh Labour’s new Gwyr Abertawe candidates.

Alison Martin, Club Secretary of Penlan Social Club, said: “Our regulars had no idea she was coming and were delighted to have the First Minister posing for photos in the bar.”

She added: “It’s not every day the First Minister drops in for a fish and chip supper and we’re very proud to have been part of such a special evening.”

Eluned Morgan with Alison Martin, Club Secretary and regulars at Penlan Social Club. Credit: Alison Martin

The First Minister used the visit to set out her party’s election pledges ahead of the Senedd vote on May 7, promising a “new chapter” for Wales.

The evening also marked a changing of the guard for Swansea, with Ms Morgan paying tribute to long-serving MSs Julie James and Rebecca Evans, who are both standing down.

The new candidate list for the region is led by Mike Hedges MS, followed by Swansea Council Leader Rob Stewart, who has spearheaded the city’s regeneration.

Eluned Morgan arriving with Party Fundraiser, Kirstie Logan-Townshend Credit: Jennifer Ann PhotographyEluned takes to the stage, credit: Jennifer Ann Photography
Eluned photographed with the Senedd candidates, credit: Jennifer Ann Photography L-R Rebecca Fogarty, Mike Hedges, Eluned Morgan, Rebecca Francis- Davies, Rob Stewart, Patience Bentu

In a move that delighted the room, Ms Morgan stayed on after the formal speeches to enjoy a supper of fish and chips supplied by local Swansea chip shop, Roma.

She also took time to meet local business owners, including Nicky Romanello from the popular chippy, who had supported the event.

The First Minister’s unannounced stop in Penlan is seen as a key moment in the lead-up to the May elections, as parties begin to ramp up their local campaigns.

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