KILVEY HILL: Police warn protesters action will follow as demonstration continues over Skyline development

South Wales Police has issued a public warning to protesters on Kilvey Hill that officers will take action against anyone breaking the law, as ongoing protest activity continues at the site of the controversial Skyline development in Swansea.

In a statement published on social media, the force said it was aware of protest activity taking place in the Kilvey Hill area in relation to development work at the site, and that while it supported the right to peaceful protest, that right came with legal limits.

“We support the right for people to make their voices heard through protest providing it is done lawfully,” the force said. “Decisions about how to police protests require consideration of complex and often competing rights and issues.”

The statement added that officers would act against those who broke the law, whether at the time of the offence or after the fact. “We will take action against anyone who breaks the law, whether this is at the time of the offence or retrospectively,” police said.

However, at least one resident, supportive of the protesters, has pushed back on any suggestion that protest activity is behind whatever prompted the police warning. Anita Aamp, who has commented publicly on the development online, said those who had opposed the scheme had always done so peacefully and within the law, and had maintained regular contact with local officers throughout. “I can pretty much assure you that whatever has happened on the hill has nothing to do with any protests,” she said, suggesting that with the Easter school holidays under way, police might want to “look further afield, as you normally would.”

The Skyline development — a multi-million pound leisure scheme backed by £4m in Welsh Government funding — has been one of the most contentious planning projects in Swansea in recent years. The project, which includes a cable car, luge runs and other visitor attractions, was approved by Swansea Council and is projected to bring significant economic benefits to the city, with reports suggesting it could generate substantial visitor numbers and support job creation in the area.

Supporters of the scheme point to the long-term regeneration potential of Kilvey Hill, arguing that the removal of diseased non-native trees is a necessary precursor to replanting with broadleaf native species, and that the development will transform a largely neglected hillside into a world-class tourism destination.

Opposition has come primarily from a vocal group of local residents living close to the hill, who have raised concerns about the impact on the area’s ecology and community character. Among the flashpoints was the fate of the Green Man of Kilvey — a wire and moss sculpture built by local man Pete Thomas in 1998 — which was left exposed in a cleared landscape after felling work began. Kilvey Woodland Volunteers described it as the “eviction” of a community icon that had stood for nearly 30 years. Skyline Swansea said the sculpture remained a priority and that they were committed to securing its future on the hill.

The controversy also took a political turn in February when Cllr Joe Hale posted a video announcing he was leaving Labour over the development. A statement from the office of council leader Rob Stewart subsequently confirmed that Cllr Hale had been suspended by the party six days before his video, following allegations of malicious communications and harassment that were also referred to South Wales Police. Cllr Hale denied being suspended, saying he had resigned over Skyline.

Both Swansea Council and Skyline Swansea have been actively countering what they describe as misinformation circulating online. The council confirmed that all tree felling had been carried out with planning consent granted in July 2025, and that Natural Resources Wales was consulted throughout the planning process. Developers have also said that ecology concerns raised by campaigners have been addressed.

South Wales Police said it remained open to dialogue with advocacy groups and that its approach would reflect “the values of fairness, equality, and justice.”

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TOWNHILL: Social housing developer plans 27 affordable homes on derelict nursery site

A derelict plot in Townhill — one of Wales’s oldest council-built communities — could be about to get a new lease of life, with plans lodged for 27 affordable apartments on land that has sat empty since the demolition of a nursery school more than a decade ago.

The proposal, submitted by Swansea planning agents Asbri Planning, would see the former Bryn Nursery School site at the junction of Townhill Road and Tower Gardens transformed into a 100% affordable housing development — every home ring-fenced for people who cannot afford to buy or rent on the open market.

Artist’s impression of the proposed apartments
(Image: Castell Group / Think Urban architects / Asbri Planning)

Behind the scheme is Castell Group, a Swansea Vale-based developer that specialises in affordable and social housing across south Wales, working with registered social landlords including Caredig and Hafod.

The site has a long and frustrated planning history. Bryn Nursery School closed in 2005 and was demolished around 2011, leaving a vacant brownfield plot on one of Townhill’s main roads. Earlier proposals for a 58-bed care home were approved but never built. In 2021, budget supermarket chain Heron Foods — owned by B&M — twice applied to build a small express-format store on the site, only for both applications to be refused by Swansea Council on retail and highway grounds. The land has remained empty ever since.

The development would sit in a neighbourhood with a particular place in Welsh housing history. Townhill — built on the hillside above the city from the 1920s onwards — was one of the first purpose-built council communities in Wales, planned to provide decent homes for Swansea’s working-class population at a time when much of the city’s housing was overcrowded and inadequate. A century on, the demand for affordable homes here hasn’t gone away.

The proposed development would comprise 17 one-bedroom and 10 two-bedroom apartments across several two and three storey brick-built blocks with pitched roofs, in keeping with the surrounding streets. The site — currently overgrown scrubland that has regenerated since the old nursery came down — is just 150 metres from Townhill’s local centre, within walking distance of shops, a pharmacy, a library and a primary school, and close to bus services into Swansea city centre and Morriston Hospital.

Tower Gardens with the development site on the right (Image: Google Maps)

The scheme has already been through informal discussions with Swansea Council, which confirmed that the principle of residential development here was acceptable. The original proposal was for 33 units, but this was reduced to 27 following council feedback about the site’s proximity to Tower Court — a supported independent living scheme for older residents next door. A flat roof design was also rejected by planners who noted that the surrounding area is entirely pitched-roof in character.

The plans include 22 parking spaces, secure cycle storage, extensive landscaping and tree planting, sustainable urban drainage, solar panels and electric vehicle charging points.

The public consultation runs until 24 April 2026.

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SWANSEA: ‘Big kit, tight planning, solid team’ — the contractors behind the Bascule Bridge’s successful move

The team that helped manoeuvre Swansea’s historic Bascule Bridge into its new temporary position has shared a behind-the-scenes look at the operation — giving residents a glimpse of what it takes to move a 70-tonne piece of Victorian history through a city.

Crynant Plant & Construction Ltd posted images of the operation on social media after working alongside Ian Davies Plant & Construction to shift the 120-year-old steel span from the Landore Park and Ride to a verge on Brunel Way — the latest step in the bridge’s painstaking restoration journey.

Workers from Crynant Plant & Construction and Ian Davies Plant & Construction oversee the crane lift at Landore Park and Ride. (Image: Crynant Plant & Construction Ltd)

“Yesterday we were on a mission, helping out on one of their projects,” the company wrote. “The job involved moving a 70-ton section of a bascule bridge into position — definitely not your everyday lift. Big kit, tight planning, and a solid team effort all around.”

The move, which took place overnight, went smoothly — a relief given the complexity of the operation and the sensitivity of the structure involved. The bridge is a Grade II listed building and a Scheduled Ancient Monument, almost 120 years old, originally built in 1909 to carry a rail link across the River Tawe.

An aerial view of the overnight operation as the Bascule Bridge convoy makes its way through Swansea. (Image: Crynant Plant & Construction Ltd)

The steel span had been in storage at Landore Park and Ride while specialist restoration work was carried out on its damaged timber supports. It is now sitting on a verge at Brunel Way, ready to be lifted back into its permanent position once that timber restoration is complete — work which is expected to be finished early next year.

Once reinstated, the bridge will form part of a shared-use path crossing the River Tawe alongside Brunel Way, giving pedestrians and cyclists a historic link across the water for the first time in years.

Workers on top of the Bascule Bridge during the complex overnight operation to load the structure onto the transporter at Brunel Way. (Image: Crynant Plant & Construction Ltd)

The restoration is part of the wider regeneration of the Hafod-Morfa Copperworks site — one of Swansea’s most significant industrial heritage projects, bringing back to life the remains of what was once the largest copper works in the world.

The images shared by Crynant Plant show the scale of the operation — heavy machinery, careful positioning and a team working in close coordination to move a structure that has stood for more than a century without incident.

The Bascule Bridge in its new temporary resting position — the 120-year-old structure now waits at Brunel Way until its timber supports are repaired and it can be lifted into place over the River Tawe. (Image: Crynant Plant & Construction Ltd)

“Great to be part of it and see everything come together safely and smoothly,” the company added.

The bridge’s journey back to its home over the Tawe is now well advanced. Once the timber supports are repaired and the final lift is complete, one of Swansea’s most unusual historic structures will be open for people to use once more.

All images courtesy of Crynant Plant & Construction Ltd / Facebook.

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Historic 70-tonne Bascule Bridge makes its move as restoration takes a major step forward

Drivers near the Swansea.com Stadium should expect disruption tonight as one of the city’s most unusual road users makes its journey through the streets — a 70-tonne Victorian bridge on the move.

Swansea’s historic Bascule Bridge will be transported from its temporary home at the Landore Park and Ride site to a verge on Brunel Way tonight, where it will wait to be lifted back into its permanent position over the River Tawe.

The move will begin at 9pm and is expected to be completed by 6am tomorrow morning. A rolling road closure will be in place on a short section of the A4217 near the stadium before moving on to Brunel Way, with local diversions set up along the route.

The span of the River Tawe, where the Bascule Bridge will be sited.
(Image: Swansea Council)

The almost 120-year-old steel span — a Grade II listed structure and Scheduled Ancient Monument — has been in storage while specialist restoration work is carried out on its damaged timber supports. That work is expected to be complete early next year, after which the bridge will be lifted back into place.

Once restored and reinstated, the Bascule Bridge will form part of a shared-use path alongside Brunel Way, crossing the River Tawe and giving pedestrians and cyclists a historic link across the water.

The bridge’s return is part of the wider restoration of the Hafod-Morfa Copperworks site — one of Swansea’s most significant industrial heritage projects, which is bringing back to life the remains of what was once the largest copper works in the world.

As Swansea Bay News has previously reported, the restoration of the Bascule Bridge has been a careful, painstaking process given its protected status. The structure cannot simply be repaired — every intervention must be sympathetic to its heritage value and approved in line with its listed building and scheduled monument designations.

Tonight’s move brings the bridge one significant step closer to the moment Swansea residents will be able to walk and cycle across it again for the first time in years.

Drivers in the area tonight are advised to allow extra time and follow the signed diversions.

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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?

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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.

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SWANSEA: New big-top amphitheatre ready for summer shows

The outdoor venue opposite LC Swansea has been transformed with a striking big-top style canopy, new flooring and upgraded seating.

The overhaul is designed to breathe new life into one of Swansea’s best-known public spaces.

And it could mean far more live music, community events and performances returning to the city centre in the months ahead.

The sail-shaped canopy, created by Gower Sail Shades, is the centrepiece of the revamp.

It will provide shelter for performers, audiences and technical equipment — making the venue far more reliable in unpredictable weather.

That means events can go ahead even when conditions aren’t perfect, opening the door to a busier programme throughout the year.

Council bosses say the changes are already attracting attention from visitors heading to nearby attractions, bars and restaurants.

They hope the improved amphitheatre will become a key destination for both locals and tourists.

Councillor Elliott King said:

“This addition will significantly extend the venue’s versatility and usability throughout the year, supporting a wider range of cultural and community events.”

He added that it will help create a “unique outdoor venue in Swansea” capable of drawing in new audiences.

The upgrade also builds on the success of last summer’s Amplitude music event, which brought crowds into the area for a free weekend of live entertainment.

Performers who took part in that event are already said to be keen to return — this time with the added benefit of cover.

As well as the canopy, a series of practical improvements have been made across the site.

These include upgraded seating areas, improved steps and brand new handrails to make the venue safer and more accessible.

A mains power supply has also been installed, making it easier to stage professional performances without the need for temporary setups.

Together, the upgrades are expected to make the amphitheatre far more attractive to event organisers.

Community groups, local performers and touring acts are all expected to benefit.

The council is now encouraging interested groups to come forward and make use of the space.

Officials say it will host a mix of council-run events alongside bookings from external organisers.

The project forms part of wider efforts to strengthen Swansea’s cultural offer and support its creative industries.

It is also aimed at boosting footfall in the city centre and supporting surrounding businesses.

Funding for the upgrade has come from the Welsh Government’s Transforming Towns programme and the Business Wales Brilliant Basics initiative.

Contractors Andrew Scott Ltd worked alongside Gower Sail Shades to deliver the project.

With the work now complete, attention is turning to the summer — and the return of live entertainment.

And with its new look firmly in place, the amphitheatre could soon be back at the heart of Swansea’s events scene.

Amphitheatre revamp: more from Swansea Bay News

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Ferry plan gathers pace as 98% back Swansea crossing

Plans for a futuristic ferry linking Swansea to South West England are gathering pace — after overwhelming public backing for the idea.

A new feasibility study has revealed that almost 98% of more than 4,300 people surveyed support proposals for a high-speed, zero-emission passenger service across the Bristol Channel.

The scheme would see hydrogen-electric vessels connecting Swansea with destinations in Devon and Cornwall — potentially cutting journey times to around an hour and easing congestion on major routes like the M4, the Prince of Wales Bridge and the M5.

Next phase underway

With support firmly behind the project, Swansea Council says it is now moving into the next stage — bringing together partners from across industry, government and the maritime sector to explore how the service could be delivered.

Council leader Rob Stewart said:

“This research shows there’s strong public support for exploring a fast, zero-emission ferry connection across the Bristol Channel.

“The findings give us confidence to move into the next stage of work, which will involve bringing together partners from across industry, government and the maritime sector to examine how a service like this could be delivered.

“We want to hear from organisations that can help contribute expertise and ideas as we develop this opportunity further.”

Ocean Prime Industries, which carried out the study, described the level of backing as “remarkable”.

CEO Dave Sampson said:

“The level of public support we’ve seen through this research is remarkable and shows how much interest there is in reconnecting communities across the Bristol Channel.

“The next step is to build the partnerships needed to take the concept forward.”

New detail emerges in full report

While the project has so far centred on Swansea, the full feasibility report suggests the potential scope could be wider.

It references Burry Port as a possible location linked to the proposals — the first time the town has been mentioned in connection with the scheme.

The report does not set out firm plans for additional ports, but the inclusion points to wider options being explored as part of the early-stage work.

Jobs boost — but questions remain

Backers say the ferry could create jobs in areas such as vessel design, manufacturing and operations, while boosting tourism and business links between South Wales and the South West of England.

But key questions remain over funding, infrastructure and delivery — with the project still at a relatively early stage.

Further talks are now expected with councils, ports, industry experts and potential investors as efforts continue to turn the concept into a working service.

Ferry plans: more from Swansea Bay News

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£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

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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.

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