Fundraisers to sleep rough in derelict RAF buildings at Swansea Airport for homeless veterans

Led by ex-Territorial Army member Phil Barrow, a group of fundraisers will spend two nights sleeping rough in the former RAF squadron buildings at Swansea Airport on 6–7 March 2026.

The event is part of The Great Tommy Sleep Out, a national campaign run by the Royal British Veterans Enterprise (RBVE) to raise funds and awareness for veterans facing homelessness.

The team will camp in the exposed remains of the old RAF Fairwood Common buildings, which are now open to the elements and offer little protection from the wind and rain.

This will be Phil’s third year taking part in the challenge. “I knew people who had served and ended up sleeping rough,” he said. “I wanted to do my little part to support veterans who’ve fallen on hard times.”

Between the two sleep-out nights, on Saturday 7 March, the group will also display WWII period uniforms, equipment, and military vehicles at Swansea Airport. Some participants will be living in full period kit throughout the weekend, creating a powerful visual link between the site’s history and the challenges some veterans face today.

Funds raised will support RBVE’s work providing safe housing, mental health support, and pathways back to independence for veterans. The group’s fundraising page can be found here.

Swansea Airport secures future with long‑term lease deal

The decision secures the future of the site and its Civil Aviation Authority licence, which SASA successfully reinstated earlier this year after the previous operator walked away.

It marks the latest chapter in a turbulent period for the airport. Back in July 2024, Swansea Bay News reported how SASA stepped in on an interim basis to keep the airport open. Since then, the alliance has rebuilt the airport’s reputation among the flying community, introduced a café, tightened safety standards and attracted interest from businesses keen to relocate.

Now, with Cabinet backing, SASA will be offered a long lease on commercial terms, allowing it to invest in infrastructure, create jobs and maintain the airport’s operational licence, while the council retains its role as landlord.

Council Leader Rob Stewart said:

“This is great news for Swansea Airport, the airport users and aviation enthusiasts, and for Swansea generally.

“When we stepped in last year, our priority was to keep the airport open. Since then, the alliance has shown real commitment and delivered improvements that give us confidence in its ability to secure the airport’s long‑term future.”

He added that putting the site back on the market would have meant re‑applying for a CAA licence, risking disruption and uncertainty. “By agreeing this lease, we are safeguarding continuity and paving the way for future investment that benefits the local economy.”

The deal means Swansea Airport can now look ahead with confidence, with SASA promising further improvements for pilots, passengers and the wider public.

Related stories

New chapter begins for Swansea Airport
SASA takes interim control to keep the airport open after the previous operator walked away.

Change of operator in sight for Swansea Airport
Council confirms talks with new alliance to secure the airport’s future.

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Police crack down on speeding drivers after livestock deaths on Gower commons

Officers warn of dangers as nights draw in

PC Chadwick from the Gower Neighbourhood Policing team said the 40mph limit across the commons is a maximum, not a target:

“With the darker nights drawing in, it is more difficult to spot the cattle on the road. When passing the animals, please give lots of space and be ready for sudden movements by the animals.”

Police say speed enforcement vehicles will be deployed alongside local officers, with patrols targeting hotspots where animals roam freely. Collisions must by law be reported, even if the animal walks away, so farmers can be alerted to possible injuries.

Long‑standing safety concerns

The warning comes after years of concern about road safety on the commons. BBC News reported in 2018 that more than 100 animals were killed in collisions over a five‑year period, prompting calls for tougher enforcement. In 2024, campaigners again urged drivers to slow down, highlighting the ongoing risks to cattle, ponies and foals.

Tragic incidents highlight the risk

Several high‑profile crashes have shocked the community. In 2019, three cows died after being struck by a Mercedes. In 2021, a van collided with a cow, while other incidents have seen foals killed, sparking sadness and anger among residents.

Farmers say the commons are unique and part of what makes Gower special, but warn that careless driving continues to threaten both animals and people.

Police message to drivers

South Wales Police are urging motorists to respect the animals’ right to roam and adjust their driving to conditions:

“The commons are unique, and the livestock are part of what makes Gower special. We want everyone to enjoy the area safely — that means respecting the animals and the law.”

#cattle #fairwoodCommon #gower #gowerCommons #gowerPonies #horses #motoring #roadTrafficAccident #southWalesPolice #speeding