Councillor denies being suspended by Labour, says he quit over Skyline

Joe Hale, who represents St Thomas, announced last week that he was becoming an independent councillor. The move came after Swansea Bay News reported that he had been suspended by the Labour Party over allegations of harassment and malicious communications.

In a statement to Swansea Bay News, Cllr Hale said he had not received any notice of suspension from the Swansea Labour Party, and that he had resigned “due to the destruction of our only green space in our ward, Kilvey Hill.”

That directly contradicts a statement issued by the office of council leader Rob Stewart last week, which said Cllr Hale had been suspended on Thursday 19 February — six days before his video announcement — “following serious allegations of misconduct being received.”

The council leader’s office said the allegations, “specifically related to malicious communications and harassment,” had also been raised with police.

Cllr Hale said he was “absolutely opposed to public money being handed over to profiteers” and questioned why the council should “subsidise a private company via the public purse” given the economic hardship facing many residents.

The council leader’s office previously pushed back on Cllr Hale’s financial claims, saying the points he raised were “ones the council has formally answered via the planning process and / or via numerous questions submitted to the council’s technical officers,” and that “Cllr Hale has not accepted the answers given to him.”

Cllr Hale also addressed claims that he should have raised his objections sooner, saying: “I have from day one and even attempted to get the council to have public meetings in St Thomas. It is a matter of record that I spoke against this at planning.”

The council’s previous statement said records showed Cllr Hale “didn’t take the opportunity to attend cabinet meetings when these matters were discussed despite having the chance to do so.”

He also responded to suggestions that his proximity to the development influenced his position. “The fact that I live in St Thomas has been used as a reason as to why I have objected to Skyline, but we have been told by the planning department that St Thomas will not be affected. Or has something changed?”

The council leader’s office had previously noted that Cllr Hale “has continued to voice his opposition to the scheme which is near to his own property.”

Cllr Hale said he had received “huge support” from residents of St Thomas and Port Tennant since announcing his resignation, as well as from work and trade union colleagues.

Cllr Hale’s statement in full:

First can i express my thanks to the residents of St Thomas and Port tennant for the huge support i have received since i announced my resignation from the Labour Party and can i thank my work colleagues and trade union colleagues for the same support and encoragement.

I have not recieved any form of notice of suspension from the Swansea Labour Party.

I resigned due to the destruction of our only green space in our ward, Kilvey Hill. The designated quiet area lost for ever and only one on the Eastside of Swansea.

I am absolutely opposed to public money being handed over to profiteers — why do we have to subsidise a private company via the public purse? Given the economic hardship many of our community are going through, giving our money to this type of venture is not what we should be doing.

Some have said i should have objected earlier and spoke up sooner. I have from day one and even attempted to get the council to have public meetings in St Thomas. It is a matter of record that i spoke against this at planning.

The fact that i live in St Thomas has been used as a reason as to why i have objected to Skyline, but we have been told by the planning dept that St Thomas will not be effected? Or has something changed?

— Joe Hale, Independent Cllr, St Thomas

Councillor suspended by Labour Party over harassment allegations before announcing Skyline “resignation”

In a video posted to social media on Tuesday, Cllr Joe Hale announced he was becoming an independent councillor, blaming his departure on the Skyline development on Kilvey Hill and claiming “the Labour Party have left me.”

However, a statement issued by the office of Swansea Council Leader Rob Stewart has revealed that Cllr Hale was suspended days before his video announcement.

A spokesperson said: “The Labour Party suspended Cllr Hale on Thursday 19th February, prior to his announcement, and following serious allegations of misconduct being received. The allegations of misconduct, specifically related to malicious communications and harassment, were also raised with the police.”

Misinformation battle

The row comes as both Swansea Council and the developers, Skyline Swansea, have been forced to publicly counter what they describe as “misinformation circulating online” about the project.

In a social media post, the council directly addressed claims that Natural Resources Wales (NRW) knew nothing about the development, stating that NRW were consulted during the planning process. The council also refuted claims that tree felling was happening without permission, confirming that planning consent was granted in July 2025.

Skyline Swansea also issued a statement to reassure the public that access to Kilvey Hill was being maintained via a re-routed path, a move they said went “beyond minimum safety standards.”

Hale’s video claims

VIDEO: Cllr Joe Hale’s announcement posted to social media on Tuesday 25 February

In his video, Cllr Hale said he could not “remain a Labour councillor when we’re spending £50 million on what, to all intents and purposes, is the gondola gamble.” He claimed the council had already invested £8 million and was proposing to increase this to £10 million.

He added that “the last three weeks” had been “a disgrace” and claimed “people are being hurt by the actions of politicians.”

Council: Scheme near his property

Responding to the video, the statement from the council leader’s office questioned Cllr Hale’s motivations, stating that he “has continued to voice his opposition to the scheme which is near to his own property.”

It continued: “The points Cllr Hale raises are ones the council has formally answered via the planning process and / or via numerous questions submitted to the council’s technical officers. Cllr Hale has not accepted the answers given to him.”

The statement also noted that “the records show Cllr Hale didn’t take the opportunity to attend cabinet meetings when these matters were discussed despite having the chance to do so.”

“Extremely concerning” posts

The statement described Cllr Hale’s recent social media activity as “extremely concerning.”

“While Cllr Hale is entitled to campaign on any matter, it was extremely concerning to see Cllr Hale recently share posts which constituted malicious communications and harassment and contained abusive language and threats directed at his former colleagues,” it said.

No response

Cllr Hale was contacted for comment on his suspension and the allegations but had not responded by the time of publication.

Kilvey’s Green Man stands alone as Skyline work transforms the face of the hill

The Green Man of Kilvey, a mythical figure built by local man Pete Thomas in 1998, has stood proudly for nearly 30 years. But as tree harvesting operations clear the way for the proposed leisure destination, his sudden exposure in a barren landscape has reignited tensions between local campaigners and developers.

‘Evicted’ from the Forest

Local volunteers, who have been vocal in their opposition to parts of the development, have hit out at the “eviction” of the Green Man from his shaded home. They argue that the sculpture is a vital piece of Swansea’s community heritage that has been treated as an afterthought.

David Lang, from Kilvey Woodland Volunteers, said:

“The Green Man has been our guardian for nearly 30 years. Neither the landowners nor the developers took any precautions to safeguard such an important part of Swansea’s heritage during the initial tree harvesting. It speaks volumes of what they think of him.”

Despite the sharp criticism, volunteers did offer a “thank you” to the contractors on the ground, who they say listened to their concerns and prioritised the sculpture’s safety during the felling.

A Landmark Development

On the other side of the debate, the Skyline Swansea project is seen by many as a once-in-a-generation investment for the city. With £4m in Welsh Government backing, the project aims to create a world-class tourism destination featuring cable cars and luge runs, promising significant job creation and economic growth.

Supporters of the scheme point to the long-term environmental benefits, noting that the current felling of diseased, non-native trees is a necessary step to replanting broadleaf native species and revitalising the hill’s ecology.

Skyline: ‘We Are Listening’

Skyline Swansea has moved to address the community’s fears, insisting that the Green Man remains a “priority” and that they are committed to a collaborative future.

A spokesperson for Skyline Swansea said:

“We recognise how important the Green Man sculpture is to the local community. We are committed to securing his long-term future, whether that means safeguarding it in its current location or relocating it to a suitable alternative site on Kilvey Hill.”

A Community Divided?

The fate of the Green Man has become a symbol of the wider crossroads facing Kilvey Hill. While some see the development as a vital step forward for Swansea’s economy, others fear the loss of the hill’s wild, community-led character.

As the planning process moves forward, the challenge for both the Council and developers will be to prove that the “mythical guardian” and the modern leisure destination can truly coexist.

What do you think of the changes on Kilvey Hill? Is it progress or a loss of heritage? Have your say below.

Green Flag flying at Kilvey Community Woodland thanks to decades of volunteer care

A cherished patch of nature on the edge of urban Swansea has been officially recognised as one of the best community-managed green spaces in Wales. Kilvey Community Woodland, maintained by the dedicated Kilvey Woodland Volunteers, has received its first Green Flag Community Award — a mark of quality bestowed by Keep Wales Tidy.

The award celebrates the woodland’s high standards in cleanliness, safety, biodiversity and community engagement. It joins 22 Swansea sites recognised this year, as reported by Swansea Bay News in our earlier coverage of the Green Flag Awards, which saw Wales lead the world in community-managed green spaces.

Volunteer David said the award was “a huge achievement” and a tribute to the decades of work by volunteers who’ve transformed Kilvey Hill into a thriving haven for wildlife and people. Fellow volunteer Chris added:

“Our cherished Kilvey Hill gives the space to breathe — from children playing in muddy puddles, to runners, bird watchers, and loved ones scattering ashes in meaningful spots.”

The woodland offers seasonal events, guided walks, conservation days, school visits and workshops, all free and open to the public. It’s a place rich in biodiversity, heritage and community spirit — and now officially recognised as such.

Lucy Prisk, Green Flag Coordinator for Keep Wales Tidy, said:

“These sites play a vital role in the physical and mental well-being of communities across Wales. Kilvey Community Woodland is now recognised as among the best in the world.”

The volunteers are calling on the community to help maintain the woodland’s high standards and support future events. Updates and opportunities to get involved are shared regularly via their social media channels.

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#GreenFlag #KeepWalesTidy #KilveyCommunityWoodland #KilveyHill #Swansea #volunteers #woodland

Fire crews tackle Kilvey Hill blaze as wildfire risks persist

The blaze, reported at 6.50pm on Sunday 13 July, involved two separate seats of fire, one measuring approximately 200m x 200m, the other 200m x 150m, and affected large swathes of gorse, trees and undergrowth. Crews from Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service used knapsack sprayers, blowers and beaters to extinguish the flames, leaving the scene by 9.28pm.

This latest incident follows a 12-hectare fire in April that required multiple crews and extended dampening down efforts across the hillside. That earlier blaze prompted renewed calls for vigilance and raised concerns about the impact on wildlife habitats and community safety.

A hill under pressure

Kilvey Hill has long been a focal point for both conservation and development. The site is currently earmarked for the Skyline Swansea leisure destination, a £35–£40 million project led by New Zealand-based Skyline Enterprises. Plans include a gondola lift, zipline, luge runs, sky swing, and hilltop restaurant, with developers pledging to retain and improve public access across the hill.

Skyline says the attraction will occupy approximately 9% of Kilvey Hill, with existing walking trails upgraded, new mountain biking routes added, and a free adventure playground introduced. The company has committed to a net biodiversity gain, including the planting of 122 mature trees and 68,000 shrubs and saplings, in consultation with Natural Resources Wales.

However, the development has faced opposition from campaigners and environmental groups, who argue that the scale of the project could disrupt the hill’s ecology and community use. Critics point to the hill’s designation as a quiet area and its role as a green space for East Swansea residents, many of whom lack access to other countryside areas.

Skyline maintains that free, unhindered access will continue, and that the project will open up the hill to a wider cross-section of the public, including those with mobility challenges.

Related stories from Swansea Bay News

Firefighters continue to dampen down 12-hectare Kilvey Hill fire
Crews battle extensive blaze across the hillside, prompting safety warnings and community concern.

Council approves plan for Skyline development
Swansea Council backs leisure attraction on Kilvey Hill, despite objections and ecological concerns.

Developer says retained access part of Kilvey Hill Skyline leisure destination proposals
Skyline Enterprises pledges to maintain public access and enhance trails as part of its plans.

Wildfire risks and community safety

The Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service continues to urge caution through its #WildfireWise campaign, which aims to reduce the number of grass fires across Wales. In 2024, crews responded to 977 grass fire incidents, with deliberate fires down 44% compared to the previous year.

The campaign encourages residents to report suspicious activity, avoid risky behaviours like outdoor burning, and take extra care during dry conditions. The service also works with landowners to promote safe land management practices and biodiversity-friendly burning techniques.

Andrew Wright, Chair of the Wales Wildfire Board, said:

“We want to work with our communities, farmers, and landowners to share our knowledge and understanding of the effect that both deliberate and accidental fires have on our communities.

Controlled burns can have a positive effect on the environment, but they must be done safely and within legal guidelines.”

For more on wildfire safety and prevention, visit the #WildfireWise campaign page.

#fire #grassFire #KilveyHill #MidAndWestWalesFireAndRescueService #Swansea #WildfireWise

Firefighters continue to dampen down 12 hectare Kilvey Hill fire

Firefighters from 10 stations across Swansea, Carmathenshire and Neath Port Talbot were called to the massive grass fire on Kilvey Hill just before 10pm on Wednesday night (9 April).

Firefighters are still damping down the scorched hillside over 12 hours later.

South Wales Police urged people to keep their windows and doors closed and to avoid the area where possible.

A spokesperson for Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service said: “At 21:47pm on 9th April, Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service were called to reports of a grassfire at Kilvey Hill, Swansea.

“Crews from Swansea Central, Swansea West, Ammanford, Port Talbot, Morriston, Reynoldston, Pontardulais, Neath, Gorseinon and Pontardawe Fire Stations were in attendance. 

“At it’s height the grassfire, covering an area of grass and gorse was 12 hectares,  fire crews utilised a ground monitor and drone, and sectorised the fire.  Then continued to extinguish the fire using a number of main jets and hose reel jets.  

“Crews remain on scene to dampen down and monitor.” 

The fire service say that it has attended 192 grass fires in the past week, with 13 of those over 10 hectares or 25 acres in size.

The fire service spokesperson added that: “Such large-scale incidents require extensive resources and coordination to manage effectively.”

Plans for a new leisure destination by New Zealand company Skyline were recently approved by city planners on Kilvey Hill.

(Lead image: Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service)

#grassFire #KilveyHill #MidAndWestWalesFireAndRescueService #Swansea

Council approves plan for Skyline development

The New Zealand-based leisure operator can now press ahead with it’s plans for Kilvey Hill that include an accessible gondola (cable car), downhill karting known as the Luge, a zipline, a sky swing, a restaurant and bar, enhanced walking and mountain bike trails, picnicking areas and a children’s adventure play park.

Danny Luke, Chief Operating Officer at Skyline Enterprises, said: “We are delighted that Swansea Council’s planning committee has agreed to our proposal for Skyline Swansea, as this decision marks a vital step in the development process. We have a successful track record of delivering accessible tourism destinations across the world, and our new leisure destination at Kilvey Hill would be our first European attraction and our ninth site globally. Our Swansea site would join the Skyline portfolio of much-loved, family friendly sites across Asia, North America and Oceania. 

“Ultimately, Skyline is all about bringing accessible fun to families across the world. We look forward to working closely with Swansea Council – and continuing to collaborate with partners and local community groups – as we deliver Skyline Swansea: an accessible adventure destination which welcomes tourists and locals alike, providing a boost to this wonderful city.” 

The scheme has drawn a mix of opinions from the public, both for and against the scheme.

A group of around 50 objectors gathered outside Swansea’s Guildhall today (Tuesday 4 March) where the planning committee met to determine the application.

Kate Ashbrook, general secretary of the Open Spaces Society, one of the objectors, said: “We are dismayed that Swansea Council is forging ahead in the face of so many objections.  It knows that the development will destroy the unique countryside of Kilvey Hill, so loved by the community, yet it proposes to trash it with an ugly megadevelopment.

“The council doesn’t seem to realise that Kilvey Hill already attracts visitors who are drawn to its open space, sea views, woodland, and peaceful natural charm.  Arguably, Wales’s best tourist feature is its natural beauty.  The attractiveness of Kilvey Hill to Swansea’s residents and visitors will be lost by building this noisy, ugly monstrosity.”

In response, Skyline say that all current footpaths and access points to the Hill would remain, with free and unhindered access continuing for those who use the Hill for recreation. 

It says that the development is planned to be built with sustainably-sourced materials, using local suppliers as much as possible and include plans to work with local training providers as well as further and higher education facilities to provide training schemes and employment for local people.  

Skyline add that the plans feature ecological conservation strategies to ensure net-positive impact on biodiversity at the site. This includes extensive ecological studies and mitigation procedures, lighting schemes, tree planting, wildflower and grassland planting, sustainable drainage systems (SuDS), and habitat protection measures, proposals which have been designed in collaboration with the Environmental Dimension Partnership (EDP) to ensure compliance with Natural Resources Wales requirements.  

A Swansea Council spokesperson said: “We welcome the decision of the planning committee on this exciting development and now await a project programme from Skyline that will detail the timeframe of construction.

“Skyline say the project is anticipated to create 100 local jobs within 12 months of being operational and expects 450 jobs to be created during construction.

“They also say the scheme is anticipated to be worth £84m to Swansea’s economy over 15 years and that around 450,000 visitors are expected within its first full year.”

(Lead image: Skyline)

#cableCar #development #featured #KilveyHill #leisure #LugeRun #OpenSpaces #PlanningPermission #Skyline #Swansea #tourism #Zipline