Urban Splash, Swansea Council's regeneration partner, is set to unveil proposals for a new riverside neighbourhood in St Thomas that would deliver 124 new homes, improved public spaces, and better access to the River Tawe. The plans will be on public display next week, with two consultation events scheduled for residents to help shape the development.
Seven-acre site on the eastern bank of the River Tawe
The seven-acre site, located on the eastern bank of the river just north of the river bridges, was formerly occupied by railway sidings. It is one of seven key regeneration sites being brought forward through the long-term partnership between Swansea Council and Urban Splash as part of the broader City on the Beach vision.
The proposals include a mix of houses and apartments, with the majority of the affordable homes intended to be managed by Codi Group, Wales' largest provider of housing, care and support. The scheme also includes improved walking and cycling links, along with flexible retail or leisure spaces on the ground floor of a gateway apartment building.
Public consultation events scheduled
Residents are invited to attend two public consultation events next week:
- Wednesday – Y Storfa on Oxford Street from 12.30pm to 6.30pm
- Thursday – St Thomas Church on Lewis Street from 10.30am to 4.30pm
A website where people can view the plans and give online feedback will be made available in the coming weeks, ensuring broader community input.
Affordable housing a key priority
Councillor Rob Stewart, Swansea Council leader, said: “Providing more affordable homes is one of our biggest priorities, and these proposals show how we can do that while transforming a long-vacant riverside site into a vibrant new neighbourhood. This is about creating homes local people can afford in a place that reconnects St Thomas with the River Tawe, and I encourage residents to come along to the consultation events or head online to help shape the plans.”
The development aims to create a green and sustainable riverside neighbourhood, with connected open spaces that better link the community with the river. This aligns with the council's broader objectives for sustainable urban regeneration.
Partners highlight community benefits
David Warburton, of Urban Splash, said: “We’re looking forward to sharing these proposals with the community. They set out a vision for a sustainable new neighbourhood that delivers much-needed homes while creating greener public spaces, opening up the riverfront and providing new opportunities for people to live, work and spend time by the River Tawe.”
Anthony Vagges, regional managing director of Lovell, added: “We’re proud to be working with Urban Splash and Swansea Council to bring forward a scheme that puts people and place first. Creating high-quality homes, including a 50% affordable housing provision, with open green spaces and improved waterfront access, this development will create new opportunities for local families and businesses while respecting the character of St Thomas.”
Part of wider City Waterfront concept
The proposals come just weeks after a public consultation was held for the Civic Centre. Urban Splash is moving forward with the wider City Waterfront concept, which includes cafes and bars, beach-sports retail, new apartments, cultural spaces, an aquarium, and flexible events space.
This riverside neighbourhood is a significant step in the regeneration of Swansea's waterfront, aiming to deliver much-needed housing while enhancing the area's environmental and recreational appeal. The consultation events will allow residents to view detailed plans and provide feedback that could influence the final design.
