CITY CENTRE LIVING: Ten new flats planned for top of Princess Way building overlooking Castle Square

Plans have been submitted to create ten new flats on the top floor of a well-known Princess Way commercial building, in the latest sign that Swansea’s city centre is slowly being transformed into somewhere people can live as well as shop.

The application, submitted to Swansea Council by St Mary’s Square Developments, proposes ten one- and two-bedroom apartments on the recessed upper floor of the Castle Quays building — the prominent seven-unit commercial block that stretches along Princess Way with aspects over both Castle Square and the council’s new Y Storfa hub in the former BHS store.

The Castle Quays development on the site of the former David Evans Department store
(Image: St Mary’s Square Developments)

Each of the proposed flats would have access to outdoor patio space. According to the design and access statement submitted with the application, no changes are proposed to the height, footprint or principal exterior elevations of the building. Cycle storage and bin storage would be provided at ground floor level, and supporting reports on noise, bats and green infrastructure have also been submitted as part of the planning package.

St Mary’s Square Developments, a Swansea-based company specialising in mixed-use and build-to-rent schemes, acquired the Castle Quays building in 2025. Work is already under way on the ground floor, where contractors are preparing the former Zara unit for a new occupier.

The former Zara store at Castle Quays on Princess Way is being prepared for a new tenant
(Image: St Mary’s Square Developments)

The Castle Quays application adds to a cluster of residential conversion schemes taking shape in the same part of the city centre.

The Welsh Government has committed millions of pounds in funding towards 29 one- and two-bedroom flats planned for the upper floors of the nearby building currently occupied at ground level by McDonald’s and Taco Bell — a scheme that has already secured planning permission.

Across the road, the old Castle Cinema building is already being converted into 30 flats alongside new commercial units.

Elsewhere in the immediate vicinity, flats have been created in upper floors on Oxford Street, and a major ‘biophilic living building‘ mixed-use development of up to 12 storeys is rising on the former Woolworths site on The Kingsway.

The Princess Way building sits at the heart of some of the most significant change currently under way in the city centre.

On one side it looks over Castle Square, which is in the middle of a multimillion-pound revamp designed to create a greener and more welcoming public space.

The leaf boat sculpture that was a fixture of the square for years was removed as that redevelopment moved ahead, with an artist commissioned to help mark the start of the transformation.

On its other aspect, Castle Quays faces the new Y Storfa building in the former BHS unit — a council-run hub housing a range of public services including the city’s central library.

The drive to bring residents back into Swansea city centre has been a consistent theme for local leaders for decades. The post-war bombing of Swansea and the subsequent rebuilding of the city on largely commercial lines left the centre without a significant residential population — something planners and business groups have long argued needs to change.

The potential loss of further anchor retailers has added urgency to that argument. Marks & Spencer’s Oxford Street store is due to close later this year, following the earlier departure of Debenhams — both significant blows for a high street that is already navigating a fundamental shift away from traditional retail.

Against that backdrop, the case for converting underused upper floors into homes has become harder to argue against.

Andrew Douglas, manager of business group Swansea BID, said a growing residential population was central to the city centre’s long-term health.

“The more people living in the city centre the more they will engage with and enjoy Swansea’s retail, hospitality, and leisure sectors,” he said. He added that residential growth also bolsters investor confidence, describing it as a signal that the city centre is a credible place to live, work and spend time.

As we’ve reported, the question of what shops and brands Swansea needs to attract — and what the future of its retail offer looks like — remains one of the biggest conversations in the city. Increasing the number of people living within walking distance of the shops, bars and restaurants is seen as a key part of making that offer sustainable.

The Castle Quays application is currently with Swansea Council for determination.

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#AndrewDouglas #CastleQuays #construction #newApartments #PlanningPermission #PrincessWay #StMarySSquareDevelopments #Swansea #SwanseaBID #SwanseaCityCentre

SAFER SWANSEA: City centre wins top UK award as crime falls

Swansea city centre has been handed a major national safety seal of approval — with new figures showing crime is falling and businesses are feeling the benefit.

The city has secured a prestigious accreditation for the second time through Swansea Against Business Crime (SABC), a partnership backed by Swansea BID and South Wales Police.

The recognition, awarded by the National Association of Business Crime Partnerships, highlights work to tackle shoplifting, anti-social behaviour and wider safety concerns across the city centre.

And the latest figures suggest that effort is starting to pay off.

Shop theft has dropped by 14.5% over the past year, while incidents of anti-social behaviour are down by more than 6%.

At the same time, outcomes for reported crimes have improved sharply — with nearly two-thirds of shop theft cases now resulting in a positive outcome, rising to 87% for anti-social behaviour.

The figures build on recent improvements highlighted in our coverage of how reports of anti-social behaviour have been falling again in Swansea city centre, alongside targeted policing and partnership work.

Andrew Douglas, manager of Swansea BID, said the accreditation reflects a long-term effort to improve safety and confidence in the city.

He said:

“We are incredibly proud that Swansea Against Business Crime has once again been recognised with this national accreditation.

“It reflects the ongoing commitment, collaboration and dedication of everyone involved in keeping Swansea safe, welcoming and thriving.”

The partnership brings together businesses, Swansea Council and South Wales Police, sharing intelligence and coordinating responses to crime hotspots.

That includes practical measures already rolled out across the city centre — such as a 24/7 business crime hotline, which we previously reported on when it was launched to support traders dealing with persistent issues.

Other initiatives include a city-wide radio network linking businesses, dedicated city centre rangers, and taxi and night marshals aimed at keeping people safe during busy evenings.

These efforts sit alongside wider safety drives — including recent operations where taxis were pulled over in Swansea city centre as part of a safety crackdown, and targeted policing in known trouble spots like Dyfatty.

Steve Gallagher, business crime manager at Swansea Against Business Crime, said the results show what can be achieved through partnership working.

He said:

“This achievement is a testament to the strength of partnership working across Swansea BID, South Wales Police and Swansea Council.

“Together, we work tirelessly to ensure that Swansea is a safe, welcoming place for businesses, residents and visitors to enjoy.”

The accreditation is assessed across a range of areas, including intelligence sharing, communication systems and how effectively organisations work together to tackle crime.

Sophie Jordan, chief executive of the National Association of Business Crime Partnerships, said Swansea’s continued success stood out.

She said:

“Swansea Against Business Crime fully deserves this accreditation.

“Achieving it for a third consecutive year demonstrates a sustained commitment to high standards, effective partnership working and delivering real results.”

The latest recognition also follows other recent accolades for the city, including Swansea’s nightlife retaining its Purple Flag status for more than a decade — a sign of continued efforts to improve safety after dark.

For businesses and visitors, the message is clear: Swansea is aiming to rebuild confidence and show the city centre is a safe place to shop, work and enjoy.

But with ongoing concerns about retail crime and anti-social behaviour across the UK, maintaining that progress will be key.

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Swansea BID welcomes new rates relief — but CAMRA warns support still falls short for struggling pubs

The Welsh Government announced the support package on 3 February, following months of pressure from businesses, industry bodies and local leaders who warned that Welsh pubs and restaurants were being left behind compared with support available in England.

Swansea BID Manager Andrew Douglas said the move would offer “meaningful, immediate” help for venues battling rising costs.

“We welcome the Welsh Government’s decision to provide a 15% reduction in business rates for hospitality businesses,” he said.

“While the sector continues to face real cost pressures, this measure represents a necessary and targeted response, and it will provide meaningful, immediate transitional support for restaurants, pubs and live music venues across Swansea.”

Douglas said the decision followed sustained lobbying from Swansea businesses.

“This reflects the strength of the case consistently put forward on behalf of the city’s businesses. Through Swansea BID, and by working closely alongside the CBI, we have been clear about the challenges facing Swansea’s hospitality sector and the need for targeted relief. I’m pleased those representations have been listened to.”

CAMRA: “Pubs still face closure”

But the Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA) has warned that the relief does not go far enough to protect Welsh pubs already on the brink.

CAMRA has repeatedly said that a 15% discount still leaves Welsh venues at a disadvantage compared with England, where hospitality businesses receive 75% rates relief. The group has warned that without stronger support, more pubs will shut their doors in the coming months.

In recent weeks, Swansea Bay News has reported on a string of closures and near‑misses across the region, including two much‑loved Llanelli restaurants shutting on the same day and the collapse of Swansea’s Founders & Co before a last‑minute rescue.

Sector still under pressure

Hospitality leaders say the new Welsh Government package is welcome but only a temporary fix for a sector hit by rising energy bills, higher supplier costs and fragile consumer spending.

The relief will apply from April, covering the 2025/26 financial year.

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Swansea University ditches disposable cups as new reusable scheme hits campus

The 2GoCup system, already used by cafés and businesses across Swansea city centre, has now launched in several university catering outlets in a bid to cut waste and push students and staff towards greener habits.

The scheme, delivered by Swansea BID in partnership with Swansea Council, lets customers pay a small deposit for a sturdy reusable cup, which can be returned for a refund or swapped for a clean one at any participating venue.

University officials say early feedback has been “really positive”, with hopes the scheme will become part of everyday campus life.

Ben Lucas, Associate Director of Commercial Services at Swansea University, said the move was about “embedding sustainability into daily routines” and encouraging people to ditch disposables.

Mr Lucas said:

“We’re delighted to introduce the 2GoCup scheme across parts of our campus and to see such a positive response from staff and students.

“Small everyday actions can make a big difference, and this initiative supports our ambition to embed sustainability into daily routines while reducing waste.

“We hope this will encourage even more people to choose reusable options and play their part in creating a greener future.”

The university’s rollout follows the scheme’s growing popularity in the city centre, where businesses including Socialdice / Pieminister, Little Man Coffee at Founders, The Storyteller, First Call Coffee, The Cwtch, The Anchor, Café Ark, Hello Asia and two Jenkins Bakery shops have already signed up.

Local employers such as Swansea.com, Morgans Hotel and Peter Lynn and Partners have also bought reusable cups for staff.

Swansea Council says the scheme supports its ambition to become a net zero city by 2050, with Cllr Andrea Williams calling it a “practical way” to cut waste and keep communities cleaner.

Cllr Williams, who is the council’s Joint Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Service Transformation said:

“The 2GoCup scheme is an exciting and practical way to help us on our journey to becoming a net zero city by 2050. Every small change adds up, so by reducing single-use waste, we’re protecting our environment, keeping our communities cleaner and supporting local businesses.

“We’re proud to help fund this initiative and welcome Swansea University’s involvement in helping drive positive behaviour change.”

Swansea BID Manager Andrew Douglas said the early response on campus shows the city is “leading the way on sustainability”, adding that more organisations are expected to join in the coming months.

Mr Douglas said:

“Swansea is a city that looks to the future, and it’s fantastic to see both our city centre businesses and Swansea University leading the way on sustainability.

“The 2GoCup model makes it simple for people to make greener choices without any added hassle, and the early response on campus has been really encouraging.

“We’re excited to build on this momentum over the coming months as more organisations come on board.”

The 2GoCup model was created by an Irish start‑up in 2018 and has since expanded across the UK and Ireland. The cups are BPA‑free, designed for repeated use and fully recyclable at the end of their life.

#2GoCup #AndrewDouglas #Catering #CllrAndreaWilliams #Environment #Recycling #reusableCup #Swansea #SwanseaBID #SwanseaCouncil #SwanseaUniversity

New business openings outpace closures as Swansea BID reports safer, more confident city centre

During 2025, Swansea city centre recorded 46 visible business openings compared with 17 closures, representing a 27% increase in new openings compared to 2024. While many of the new arrivals are hospitality-led, the figures point to growing confidence in the city centre and a more vibrant offer for residents, workers and visitors.

New businesses to open this year include Rituals, Skechers, Popeye’s, Wingstop, Slim Chickens, The Swansea Jack, The Baker Co, Manifest, Plan Burrito, Saint Hugo, and independent retailers like Sapenin, Hello Asia, Retroplex, and LV Nails. 

Alongside this growth, new data shows Swansea city centre has become a safer place to trade and visit. Figures shared by South Wales Police show a 40% positive outcome rate for reported shop thefts in November 2025, up from 35% year on year.

Positive outcomes for anti-social behaviour have almost doubled, rising to 62% compared with 33% in November 2024. These improvements reflect the success of the continued partnership between Swansea Business Improvement District (BID), Swansea Council’s Safer Swansea team (SABC), and South Wales Police.

Business engagement with crime prevention and intelligence-sharing systems has also increased. Use of the SentrySIS crime reporting platform is up 28% year to date, with a 14% rise in reports to SABC. The city-wide StoreNet radio network now connects 152 businesses, improving real-time communication and incident response across the city centre.

Swansea BID has also invested heavily in supporting frontline city centre staff through training. During 2025, BID facilitated 352 training spaces, with an estimated value of £40,000, engaging 98 businesses across more than 40 courses. Training delivered included personal safety for retail and night-time economy staff, emergency first aid, food safety and mental health awareness.

This was complemented by 31 drop-in sessions and help desks, offering practical business support on business funding, waste management, marketing and energy cost savings. 

Environmental improvements have also played a role in enhancing the city centre experience. Swansea BID supported the maintenance and appearance of more than 55,000 square metres of city centre pavement and coordinated the removal of 170 graffiti tags, helping to create a cleaner and more welcoming environment.

Andrew Douglas, Swansea BID Manager, said:
“The rise in new business openings is a clear indicator of growing confidence in Swansea city centre. Coupled with improved crime outcomes, stronger communication, and sustained investment in training and the public realm, it demonstrates that effective partnership working is delivering tangible results.

“Our priority has been to create a safer, more welcoming city centre, and that progress is now translating into real momentum for businesses.

“It is also exciting to see the city centre continue to evolve through major developments such as 71/72 Kingsway, Y Storfa, Kartay’s Princess Quarter, and the ongoing Castle Gardens project.

“This continued investment highlights the city’s positive trajectory, and I am confident that as we move into 2026, Swansea city centre will become an even more attractive destination for businesses to establish and grow.”

Swansea BID will continue to build on this progress into 2026, with a focus on safety, business support and strengthening Swansea city centre as a place to visit, work and invest.

[Lead image: Swansea City FC]

#featured #PlanBurrito #Popeyes #SaferSwansea #Sketchers #SouthWalesPolice #SwanseaBID #TheSwanseaJack #YStorfa

Swansea BID launches 24/7 crime hotline for city centre businesses

Direct line to report trouble

From December 17, the Swansea BID office number — 01792 475021 — has been transformed into a 24/7 crime reporting hotline. Callers simply press one to be diverted straight to ASEL’s dedicated security team, giving traders and staff an immediate route to report incidents at any time of day or night.

The move comes after months of concern about retail crime and anti‑social behaviour in the city centre. BID bosses say the hotline will make it easier than ever for businesses to get help and ensure incidents don’t slip through the cracks.

“Major step forward”

Andrew Douglas, Swansea BID Manager, said: “This partnership is a major step forward in how we support our business community. By providing a 24/7 crime reporting line, we’re making it easier than ever for BID businesses to get help when they need it and ensuring that incidents don’t go unreported.”

Backed by security experts

Peter Fisher, Director of Operational Risk at ASEL, said the service gives Swansea’s business community “a trusted, always‑on reporting function” that will improve the quality of information passed to police and help build a clearer picture of crime trends.

Strengthening the fight against retail crime

Steve Gallagher, leader of Swansea Against Business Crime, welcomed the hotline as “another powerful tool in building a safer Swansea.” He said timely reporting is crucial for spotting patterns, supporting police response, and protecting staff and customers.

More than crime

The hotline isn’t just for reporting thefts or anti‑social behaviour. BID levy payers can also use the same number to flag environmental issues such as blocked drains, broken street lights or damaged paving, with the BID team submitting reports directly to Swansea Council.

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#ASEL #Business #cityCentreCrime #hotline #retail #retailCrime #Swansea #SwanseaAgainstBusinessCrime #SwanseaBID #SwanseaCityCentre

Campaign launched in Swansea to highlight signs of domestic abuse

Timed to coincide with White Ribbon Day (25 November), the initiative is being led by Swansea Council in partnership with South Wales Police, Safer Swansea, survivors, licensees, and members of the Business Improvement District.

According to the council, the campaign aims to raise awareness of “red flags” in unhealthy relationships and promote access to local support services. Posters and stickers — designed with input from survivors — are being placed in toilets across licensed premises in the city centre.

Guildhall to be lit up in orange

Council officials say an information table will be hosted at Morriston Hospital on White Ribbon Day, offering advice and resources to those affected by domestic abuse. The Guildhall will also be illuminated in orange that evening to mark the campaign.

Cllr Alyson Anthony, Cabinet Member for Well-being, said she was “very grateful to all the licensees, businesses and partners supporting this campaign,” adding: “It’s about providing practical advice on the red flags to be aware of — and making sure people know that confidential support is there if needed.”

Council Leader Rob Stewart described the white ribbon as “a symbol of commitment to ending violence and promoting gender equality.” He said this year’s theme — We Speak Up — encourages men and boys to challenge sexism and harmful behaviours.

Support services available locally

The following organisations offer confidential support for anyone affected by domestic abuse:

OrganisationContact NumberLive Fear Free Helpline0808 80 10 800Swansea Women’s Aid01792 644683Stori01792 345751New Pathways01685 379 310Bawso01792 642003

#bawso #businessImprovementDistrict #cllrAlysonAnthony #cllrRobStewart #domesticViolence #saferSwansea #southWalesPolice #swansea #swanseaBid #swanseaBusinessImprovementDistrict #swanseaCouncil #whiteRibbonDay #womensAid

Over 4,600 attend Swansea’s Student Shopping Night — biggest turnout on record

Held on Tuesday 7 October, the city-centre celebration marked a 54% increase in student footfall since 2023, with organisers hailing the event as a major success for both local businesses and civic engagement.

Festival atmosphere across Quadrant and Market

Delivered in partnership between the Quadrant Shopping Centre, Swansea BID, and Swansea Council–managed Swansea Market, the event welcomed students with exclusive discounts of up to 30% across more than 60 retailers and stallholders. Over 50 bars, performers, and local businesses helped create a vibrant, festival-style atmosphere across Swansea’s two key shopping destinations.

Students queue along Whitewalls ahead of Swansea’s record-breaking Student Shopping Night.Crowds snake up Oxford Street as students arrive for exclusive deals and live entertainment.A live band performs on the main stage outside the former Debenhams building, drawing a packed crowd.Students enjoy the festival-style atmosphere at Swansea’s biggest Student Shopping Night to date.Inside the Quadrant, students explore exclusive discounts from over 60 retailers and stallholders.

Civic leaders praise economic impact

Andrew Douglas, Swansea BID manager, said the event “once again exceeded all expectations,” adding:

“The continued growth in attendance highlights how important experience-led events like this are for students and businesses alike. It’s fantastic to see so many young people discovering what Swansea has to offer, while also driving significant economic benefit for our city centre.”

Jane White, Company Executive at Centurion, owners of the Quadrant, said:

“2025 was our biggest and most successful yet. The collaboration between major retailers, independents, and hospitality businesses showcased the very best of Swansea. The strong sales performance reflects growing consumer confidence in the city.”

Councillor David Hopkins, Cabinet Member for Delivery and Joint Deputy Leader of Swansea Council, added:

“Swansea Market continues to play a central role in city life, and events like Student Shopping Night, part-funded by the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, help us connect with the next generation of residents and shoppers.”

Local favourites join the celebration

Among the 50+ participating businesses were AU Vodka, Bunkhouse Live Music Venue, Bambu, Bonnie Rogues, Buzz Trampoline Park, and Joe’s Ice Cream, with organisers noting strong engagement across food, retail, and entertainment sectors.

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#CenturionGroup #CllrDavidHopkins #QuadrantShoppingCentre #retail #StudentShoppingNight #students #Swansea #SwanseaBID #SwanseaCouncil #SwanseaQuadrant

New reusable cup scheme launches in Swansea city centre to cut single‑use waste

The 2GoCup initiative, run jointly by Swansea Council’s Swansea Project Zero team and Swansea Business Improvement District (BID), allows customers to pay a small deposit for a durable, reusable cup. The cup can be returned to any participating business for a refund or swapped for a fresh one.

The scheme is designed to reduce the thousands of disposable coffee cups thrown away in the city centre each week, helping Swansea meet its sustainability targets.

Nine businesses have already signed up, including Socialdice / Pinatas, Little Man Coffee at Founders, The Storyteller, First Call Coffee, The Cwtch, The Anchor, Café Ark, Hello Asia and Kardomah, with another seven to be announced soon. Local employers Swansea.com and Peter Lynn and Partners have also purchased cups for staff.

Cllr Andrea Williams, Joint Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Service Transformation at Swansea Council, said:

“The 2GoCup scheme is an exciting and practical way to help us on our journey to becoming a net zero city by 2050. Every small change adds up, so by reducing single‑use waste, we’re protecting our environment, keeping the city cleaner, and supporting our local businesses. We’re proud to help fund this initiative and look forward to seeing more businesses join in.”

Andrew Douglas, Swansea BID Manager, said:

“Swansea is a city that looks to the future, and our businesses are proud to be leading the way on sustainability. The 2GoCup model makes it simple for customers to choose greener options without any added hassle, and the positive early response has been fantastic to see. We’re excited to build on this momentum in the months ahead, expanding the scheme and encouraging people to explore new coffee shops across the city — boosting trade for our BID businesses while supporting a more sustainable Swansea.”

Kieran Ivett, owner of Wind Street’s Socialdice and Pinatas, added:

“I’m extremely passionate about this scheme. It’s already delivered fantastic results in Ireland, and I’m confident it will not only inspire visitors to make more sustainable choices but also give businesses the chance to connect with new customers. The idea is straightforward, and I believe people coming into the city will embrace it; all while playing their part in protecting the environment.”

Launched in Ireland in 2018, 2GoCup has expanded across the UK and Ireland. The cups are made from durable, BPA‑free materials, designed for multiple uses, and are fully recyclable at the end of their life.

#2GoCup #BusinessImprovementDistrict #CaféArk #cafe #CllrAndreaLewis #CllrAndreaWilliams #coffee #coffeeShop #FirstCallCoffee #FoundersCo #HelloAsia #Kardomah #LittleManCoffee #ProjectZero #Recycling #reusableCup #Socialdice #Swansea #SwanseaBID #SwanseaCouncil #TheAnchor #TheCwtch #TheStoryteller #zeroWaste

Swansea BID and police partnership secures prosecution of prolific graffiti vandal

The offender, whose repeated tagging blighted businesses and public property, was caught following a police operation made possible by intelligence and photographic evidence provided by Swansea BID members, aided by the SentrySIS crime reporting system.

Swansea Business Improvement District said the case demonstrates the strength of its ongoing partnership with police in tackling anti‑social behaviour and keeping the city centre safe and welcoming.

Andrew Douglas, Swansea BID manager, said: “Graffiti vandalism is not a victimless crime. It affects the appearance, safety perception, and reputation of our city centre, and causes real costs and distress to local businesses.

“We are proud to support our BID businesses by working closely with South Wales Police to take a firm stand against anti‑social behaviour, and we are currently exploring options to recover the removal costs from the offender.

“This case is a clear example of how our intelligence‑sharing tools, particularly the SentrySIS platform, empower businesses to report, record, and support action against persistent offenders. We will continue to champion a zero‑tolerance approach to vandalism and ensure our city centre remains vibrant, safe, and thriving.”

The BID’s investment in crime prevention includes promoting the SentrySIS platform, which allows businesses to securely log incidents and build a detailed picture of offenders operating in the area.

South Wales Police Inspector Andrew Hedley said: “The information provided by Swansea BID and city centre businesses was instrumental in securing this prosecution. We’re committed to continuing our partnership with Swansea BID to keep our city centre safe and resilient against crime and anti‑social behaviour.”

Swansea BID says the outcome sends a strong message that graffiti and other forms of vandalism will not be tolerated in the city.

#antisocialBehaviour #BusinessImprovementDistrict #graffiti #SouthWalesPolice #Swansea #SwanseaBID #SwanseaCityCentre #vandalism