Developers chosen for £1bn revamp

The £1bn master plan aims to regenerate key sites in the city. Enlarge Image

Two developers have been chosen to develop four key sites in Swansea as part of a £1bn city centre facelift.

Hammerson and Urban Splash last worked together on the Bullring shopping complex in Birmingham and will lead the regeneration of the city's retail and waterfront sites.

Council leaders said it was probably the most important development announced for the city in 50 years.

The Quadrant and St David's shopping centres are included in the revamp.

Car parks at Paxton Street and County Hall will also be redeveloped.

The appointments follow a nine-month competition which asked developers to submit their visions for the city.

The master plan includes 600,000 sq ft of additional retail space, 1,000 homes and new leisure, office, hotel and conference facilities.

This is probably the most significant announcement during the past 50 years for Swansea Chris Holley

Swansea Council leader Chris Holley said Hammerson was one of the leading property developers in Europe, while Urban Splash had a "proven track record" in Manchester, Leeds and Liverpool.

"This is probably the most significant announcement during the past 50 years for Swansea."

Over the next 18 months both companies will work with the council and Welsh Assembly Government to secure the necessary planning consents.

High Street

John Richards of Hammerson said they would create a city centre of which "the people of Swansea can be justifiably proud" while Jason Collard of Urban Splash said the company was "delighted and proud" to be chosen.

Urban Splash is currently involved in a revamp of Birmingham's landmark Rotunda building.

Both companies last worked together on the residential element of Birmingham's Bullring which boasts more than 140 shops and kiosks.

Eleven bids were short listed and five developers invited to submit proposals after the launch last March.

Meanwhile a £22m regeneration scheme for Swansea's High Street has been unveiled.

It would see an "urban village" of shops and affordable housing midway between the railway station and Castle Square.

Plans are going out for consultation later this week.

Some buildings will be demolished, and Swansea Housing Association, which is behind the High Street plans, is seeking a compulsory purchase orders for a number of buildings and surrounding land.

The association's director of development Geoff Pettifor said: "Our proposals include new-look retail frontage for high quality commercial space, offices and 175 affordable homes with car parking.

"It will breathe fresh life into this part of the High Street."