All change as old bank set to be business hub
PLANS to transform a former bank building in the centre of Swansea into a new business hub have been revealed.
If approved the former Barclays building, running from 69-70 The Kingsway, will provide new flexible workspace suitable for a range of companies.
The development would complement the neighbouring 71-72 Kingsway, a multi-millionpound home for tech and creative businesses about to go up on a site once occupied by nightclub Oceana.
Plans show that the three-storey glass-fronted former Barclays building will be renovated with new tall glass windows and a ribbed aluminium screen. There will be new doors and, inside, a complete overhaul.
The application was submitted to city planners by design consultant The Urbanists on behalf of Swansea council.
The design was undertaken by Londonbased Architecture 00, who are working alongside property specialists Gleeds, Cushman & Wakefield and WSP on this and 71-72 Kingsway.
The vacant site has been acquired by Swansea council and will back onto a new public square to one side of 71-72 Kingsway.
Council leader Rob Stewart said: “The former Barclays building has a history stretching back to the city’s post-World War Two rebuilding.
Now it has a big future.
“It will be important to the regeneration of The Kingsway area, which is becoming a great place to live, work and spend quality leisure time.
“Now the area’s new two-way road system is in place and the public realm and regreening works are nearly complete, our attention has turned to refurbishment and rebuilding of key buildings around the Kingsway.
“Our work on The Kingsway will stimulate jobs and economic growth; it’s a key focal area in our regeneration plans.
“In conjunction with the Swansea
Bay City Deal and others, we’re transforming public space throughout the city centre.”
The former Barclays building will be close to the planned new Biophilic Living project, which is being described as an eco-friendly building with homes and commercial space being driven by Hacer.