**Swansea’s SA1 Set for Long-Awaited Parks as Residents Question Delays**
Years of frustration over the absence of proper parks in Swansea’s SA1 waterfront area may finally be coming to an end, amid assurances from local authorities that plans for two new public spaces are finally moving forward. The situation, described by one local councillor as “a disgrace”, has led to a heated exchange with city officials as local residents watch the slow pace of promised improvements.
The new developments are planned for land off Langdon Road, on the site of former docklands that have undergone extensive regeneration in recent years. According to Swansea Council, the forthcoming parks will each offer a range of amenities, including a pump track for BMX and scooters, a basketball area, modern play equipment, landscaped green areas, wildflowers, and a selection of benches and seats under newly planted trees and hedgerows.
Initial preparation work is said to be underway, raising hopes that the lengthy wait for recreation spaces in this densely-populated part of the city is finally over. However, some local representatives remain sceptical, citing a long history of delays and political promises that have yet to be realised.
Cllr Sam Bennett, who represents the waterfront area, voiced his frustration on behalf of the local community. He claims that almost £1 million had been earmarked for three new parks in SA1 several years ago, but that tangible progress has been sorely lacking. Since his election in 2022, Cllr Bennett has repeatedly pressed the council for updates, saying residents feel increasingly “let down”.
“In the 2022 elections, there was a significant promise from Labour that funding for these parks had been secured – yet three years later, we still don’t have a single proper park open for families in SA1,” said Cllr Bennett. He added that whilst there have been repeated assurances and indicative timelines, such as a projected start in May this year, visible work on the ground has been scant.
In response, council leader Rob Stewart defended the administration’s record, insisting that progress on the waterfront parks had been communicated to local representatives, including Cllr Bennett. Cllr Stewart pointed to recent preparatory work, such as the delivery of topsoil to the sites, as evidence that construction is about to begin.
“It is disappointing to hear claims that nothing is happening, when officers have kept everyone updated and we are now moving forward with these fantastic new public spaces. The council has invested over £8 million in more than 60 play areas since the Covid pandemic, which is substantially more than previous administrations” said Councillor Stewart. He further noted the completion of other projects, including the newly-enhanced Amy Dillwyn Park near the Swansea Arena.
The origins of this ongoing debate stretch back to 2018, when the city council and the Welsh Government agreed on plans to create three play areas in the SA1 redevelopment zone. Under this agreement, Welsh ministers provided £1 million for the establishment of these public spaces, with the expectation that Swansea Council would deliver the parks within a reasonable timeframe. However, pandemic-related disruptions and other setbacks have delayed progress, with only two sites now being actively considered for development.
Cllr Robert Francis-Davies, cabinet member for investment, regeneration, events and tourism, said the project team is making efforts to recycle materials during construction, such as sourcing soil from the Singleton Boating Lake works. He expressed optimism that the SA1 community would welcome and support the new facilities, ensuring their long-term future as vibrant neighbourhood parks.
While the announcement of preparatory work is likely to reassure some residents, others remain watchful, wary of yet more delays in an area that has, perhaps ironically, become a focal point for both urban regeneration and unmet needs for basic neighbourhood amenities.
Swansea Council has stated that the construction of the parks is now a priority and that the first phase of works should be visible within the next few months. Completion dates have not been confirmed, but local campaigners hope this marks a genuine turning point for outdoor play and recreation in one of the city’s busiest and most diverse districts.
As the debate rumbles on, the coming summer months will prove crucial in assessing whether Swansea’s waterfront will finally be able to offer the green spaces its residents have demanded for so long.