Two days left to have initial say on former Swansea Oceana site

There are two days left for the public to have initial input on exciting plans for Swansea city centre’s former Oceana site.

A survey for people to tell Swansea Council what they think of early proposals for a £30m high-tech business and leisure building there closes at 5pm this Friday, September 27. The consultation opened on August 30.

The development’s working title is 71 & 72 The Kingsway and was formerly known as the Digital Village.

Led by Swansea Council, the project is part of the wider regeneration of The Kingsway. It forms part of the Swansea City and Waterfront Digital District, which will be part-funded by the Swansea Bay City Deal.

Rob Stewart, Swansea Council leader and chairman of the Swansea Bay City Deal’s Joint Committee, said: “I thank all who attended the six days of public displays on this incredible facility that will be a beacon for those working in the digital industries and educational sectors.

“There is great interest among the public; it’s good to see they have confidence in our wish to regenerate this key area of the city centre and that they want to be part of inspiring the future of this space.

“They have offered much useful input through the public sessions and through the online survey – and we’ve consulted with a number of those working in the tech sector and with disability groups.

“I urge all those interested in influencing the future of this site to have their say. They have until Friday to do this.

“We want it to be a stunning new place for business and the public – and the public can help.”

The aim of 71 & 72 The Kingsway is for it to attract leaders and innovators in the high-tech business. Local people will be able to enjoy cultural activities. It is being designed with the potential for a public food and drink offer.

There will be high quality digital connectivity along with accessible spaces for events and complementary work activities. There will be collaborative and traditional working environments.

The site is located between The Kingsway and Oxford Street at the heart of the city centre. It incorporates the location of the former Oceana, a former surface car park in Picton Lane and neighbouring access lanes.

Work there will complement the ongoing £12m Kingsway transformation which will see this route become a high quality street, retaining traffic throughput but becoming a lot more pedestrian friendly. The idea is to make the city centre an exciting place to live and work.

Have your say on 71 & 72 The Kingsway by logging on to www.swansea.gov.uk/71and72thekingsway