More school closures are on the way in Swansea.Councillors say it is the only way to deal with a big drop in pupil numbers.
There are more than 5,000 spare places in the county already. The figure will have risen to 6,000 by 2009.
The drop in pupil numbers means less cash for schools, and councillors have warned that parents must now brace themselves for closures.
The move is likely to lead to an outcry wherever the axe falls. But it now appears inevitable.
Councillor John Miles, chairman of the authority's education scrutiny board, told a meeting yesterday: "It is not going to be an easy task, but it is something that has to be done.
"Whoever is in power will have to deal with this.
"Pupils are suffering because the schools are getting smaller and there is not enough money for the full curriculum to be delivered."
There was an outcry in the city when proposals to merge Dylan Thomas and Bishop Gore Schools were announced in 2005.
That move would have seen Dylan Thomas school close, with pupils being transferred to an improved Bishop Gore site.
However, the idea was eventually dropped after angry parents lobbied councillors.
Governor of Dylan Thomas Dereck Roberts said: "I do not think closures are necessarily the way forward."They need to look at the other possible options.
"There are huge expenses involved with closures."
Other schools in the county have already been closed because of falling numbers.
Garnswllt School in the Amman Valley closed its doors for the final time in July, after 130 years, because there were so few pupils.
Councillor Miles said parents needed to understand that changes across the city were necessary.
"If we look at one school or a small group of schools then people will feel targeted," he said."We need to make it clear to all the people in the county that there's a problem in education.
"The reality is that we have far too many schools and they are under-occupied. We all have to face up to that fact.
"It is going to take two to three years before we start moving with it, and we need to publicise that we have a major issue."
Any closures will need to be balanced by huge improvements to existing schools or even newly-built replacements, according to the committee.
Councillor Richard Lewis said residents needed to be made aware of the problems, and said the long-term benefits would outweigh short-term fears.
"The medicine may not be popular or palatable now."People will be marching down the streets with banners and placards saying don't close my school,'' he added.
"People have to know that schools will close, but at the end of the day the standard of education in Swansea will go up."
Cabinet member for education Councillor Mike Day said he would consider the recommendations from the committee when they were delivered in April.
He added: "I am pleased the scrutiny board is looking at this issue, which affects not only Swansea but all other areas.
"What is clear is that some action will be needed to tackle surplus places and the condition of school buildings."
Tuesday, 27 February 2007
Monday, 26 February 2007
New deal on IT system will be £83m cheaper
A Planned customer service system for Swansea Council costing around £84 million has been ditched in favour of one costing less than £1 million.The authority has been forced to turn to Cardiff Council for help after its multi-million pound IT plans fell apart.
Private firm Capgemini had been in line to provide the cutting-edge customer service system after supplying the technology to replace the authority's back office IT system.
But as projected costs spiralled, council leaders decided to drop the company and find a cheaper alternative.
Cabinet member for eGovernment Mary Jones has now confirmed high-level talks with Cardiff Council are at an advanced stage and a deal could be struck within weeks.
Just £200,000 has been set aside for the start-up of the scheme, which is expected to be in place by September.
It will not deliver the ambitious promises outlined when the council embarked on its eGovernment programme two years ago, but comes at a fraction of the cost.
Councillor Jones said an alternative had to be found after an option to deal with Capgemini was dropped in January.
"We have gone out to look for an alternative that is affordable and acceptable for what we want to do with it.
"No deal has been done, but we have had talks with Cardiff Council to use its system."
Swansea Council's involvement with Capgemini has been dogged by controversy. As well as spiralling costs, the deal to transfer council staff to the firm caused the longest public sector strike in Welsh history.
Less than £8 million of a projected £26 million of savings have so far been identified as achievable.
Another link to Capgemini, the project's name, has also gone.
Councillor Jones said: "We are dropping the name Service@Swansea . The new system will not be called that and we have three alternatives that we are looking at."
The opening of the council's new customer contact centre at County Hall in September is a key factor - something has to be in place by then, and Cardiff offers an affordable and reliable solution.
However, unlike the original plans there will be no call centre, and residents will have to deal with staff face-to-face, or use an email form.
The news has been broadly welcomed by opposition groups at Swansea Council, although they say too much time has been wasted with Capgemini.
Councillor Mark Child, the Labour group's technology spokesman, said: "Unfortunately, we no longer have the IT expertise to be able to implement this in-house as they were all transferred to Capgemini. Having said that, this is the approach we have been advocating all along.
"Cardiff has had this system for five years and it is something we could have gone with much earlier."
Conservative group leader Rene Kinzett agreed that something needed to be done.
He added: "It is only a shame that we have spent so much time and energy, and possibly money, on discussions with Capgemini.
"The fact that we are not making the savings from the first phase means we are not in a position to get anything like the system we were promised."
Private firm Capgemini had been in line to provide the cutting-edge customer service system after supplying the technology to replace the authority's back office IT system.
But as projected costs spiralled, council leaders decided to drop the company and find a cheaper alternative.
Cabinet member for eGovernment Mary Jones has now confirmed high-level talks with Cardiff Council are at an advanced stage and a deal could be struck within weeks.
Just £200,000 has been set aside for the start-up of the scheme, which is expected to be in place by September.
It will not deliver the ambitious promises outlined when the council embarked on its eGovernment programme two years ago, but comes at a fraction of the cost.
Councillor Jones said an alternative had to be found after an option to deal with Capgemini was dropped in January.
"We have gone out to look for an alternative that is affordable and acceptable for what we want to do with it.
"No deal has been done, but we have had talks with Cardiff Council to use its system."
Swansea Council's involvement with Capgemini has been dogged by controversy. As well as spiralling costs, the deal to transfer council staff to the firm caused the longest public sector strike in Welsh history.
Less than £8 million of a projected £26 million of savings have so far been identified as achievable.
Another link to Capgemini, the project's name, has also gone.
Councillor Jones said: "We are dropping the name Service@Swansea . The new system will not be called that and we have three alternatives that we are looking at."
The opening of the council's new customer contact centre at County Hall in September is a key factor - something has to be in place by then, and Cardiff offers an affordable and reliable solution.
However, unlike the original plans there will be no call centre, and residents will have to deal with staff face-to-face, or use an email form.
The news has been broadly welcomed by opposition groups at Swansea Council, although they say too much time has been wasted with Capgemini.
Councillor Mark Child, the Labour group's technology spokesman, said: "Unfortunately, we no longer have the IT expertise to be able to implement this in-house as they were all transferred to Capgemini. Having said that, this is the approach we have been advocating all along.
"Cardiff has had this system for five years and it is something we could have gone with much earlier."
Conservative group leader Rene Kinzett agreed that something needed to be done.
He added: "It is only a shame that we have spent so much time and energy, and possibly money, on discussions with Capgemini.
"The fact that we are not making the savings from the first phase means we are not in a position to get anything like the system we were promised."
Monday, 19 February 2007
Decision due on ice rink plans for City
Swansea's ice rink hopes could be decided in the next two months.The council is in talks with developers and says the possibility of a new rink is still very much alive a year after plans were first revealed.
Developers are expected to bring firm proposals to the council within two months.Talks aimed at bringing an rink to the city are still at an early stage 12 months on, but Planet Ice, the company behind the proposals, is still keen to come to the city.
The car park next to the refurbished £32 million leisure centre is believed to be their preferred site.
The company, which has rinks in Basingstoke, Milton Keynes and the Isle of Wight, has been discussing the plans with Swansea Council and is hopeful a deal can be arranged.
Planet Ice was the company behind the city's hugely successful temporary ice rink at Christmas, on the land in front of the National Waterfront Museum.
Heath Rhodes, the company's communications manager, said: "We are still in negotiations with Swansea Council over the rink, but everything looks quite positive.
"We cannot say how, what, where or when yet, but we are still looking at Swansea favourably."A delegation from the council has already visited Planet Ice's Coventry rink to see how it is run.
A spokesman for Swansea Council said: "It was a fact-finding visit by officers to see one of the venues being operated by a leading company in this field.
"The visit will form part of an initial assessment of the potential for such a project in Swansea."
It is also understood that property developers acting on behalf of Planet Ice have been in the city to look at possible sites.
Oystermouth Road car park, or part of it, is thought to be one of the company's favoured sites, although both parties say it is too early to talk about specific details.
Swansea Council's spokesman confirmed talks are continuing.
He said: "The council is currently in preliminary discussions with an ice rink operator to explore opportunities for delivering an ice rink development within the city centre. These discussions are at an early stage, and a number of exciting options are still being considered.
"These negotiations are ongoing and are aimed at allowing the council to fully assess the business case for any proposed future development."
Council leader Chris Holley said any deal would have to be right for Swansea.
"All I can say is that developers have been to the city to have a look, but they haven't yet come back with a plan," he said.
"If they do decide to come, and as long as they put together a reasonable development for Swansea, then we will welcome it.
"The success of the Waterfront Winterland and temporary ice skating rink over Christmas will have surprised a lot of people.
"Hopefully, they will look at that and see if they can repeat that success."
Developers are expected to bring firm proposals to the council within two months.Talks aimed at bringing an rink to the city are still at an early stage 12 months on, but Planet Ice, the company behind the proposals, is still keen to come to the city.
The car park next to the refurbished £32 million leisure centre is believed to be their preferred site.
The company, which has rinks in Basingstoke, Milton Keynes and the Isle of Wight, has been discussing the plans with Swansea Council and is hopeful a deal can be arranged.
Planet Ice was the company behind the city's hugely successful temporary ice rink at Christmas, on the land in front of the National Waterfront Museum.
Heath Rhodes, the company's communications manager, said: "We are still in negotiations with Swansea Council over the rink, but everything looks quite positive.
"We cannot say how, what, where or when yet, but we are still looking at Swansea favourably."A delegation from the council has already visited Planet Ice's Coventry rink to see how it is run.
A spokesman for Swansea Council said: "It was a fact-finding visit by officers to see one of the venues being operated by a leading company in this field.
"The visit will form part of an initial assessment of the potential for such a project in Swansea."
It is also understood that property developers acting on behalf of Planet Ice have been in the city to look at possible sites.
Oystermouth Road car park, or part of it, is thought to be one of the company's favoured sites, although both parties say it is too early to talk about specific details.
Swansea Council's spokesman confirmed talks are continuing.
He said: "The council is currently in preliminary discussions with an ice rink operator to explore opportunities for delivering an ice rink development within the city centre. These discussions are at an early stage, and a number of exciting options are still being considered.
"These negotiations are ongoing and are aimed at allowing the council to fully assess the business case for any proposed future development."
Council leader Chris Holley said any deal would have to be right for Swansea.
"All I can say is that developers have been to the city to have a look, but they haven't yet come back with a plan," he said.
"If they do decide to come, and as long as they put together a reasonable development for Swansea, then we will welcome it.
"The success of the Waterfront Winterland and temporary ice skating rink over Christmas will have surprised a lot of people.
"Hopefully, they will look at that and see if they can repeat that success."
Friday, 16 February 2007
Crime fight success is example to all
A Crime-busting Swansea community has been held up as an example for others to follow right across the UK.Five years ago the local police station was fire-bombed, with teenagers regularly causing problems.
But in a remarkable turnaround things are now on the up again in the city's Blaenymaes and Portmead areas.
They were yesterday visited by Home Office Minister Tony McNulty, who paid tribute to the work done to make life better for locals.
The Broughton Avenue police station has had a friendly mural painted outside. Officials say it is a telling sign of the community's intent not to give in to the criminal element.
Overall in Swansea, official Home Office figures show a fall in crime of 20 per cent in the past three to four years, a reduction equal to 6,000 fewer victims of crime.
Mr McNulty said he was struck by "the enthusiasm there was from both police and local community leaders in driving crime down and working on a positive way for the area.
Mr McNulty spoke to Swansea East MP Sian James, Swansea East AM Val Lloyd and local councillors and volunteers about the progress shown in tackling crime.
"The absolute vibe is that this has been done from the ground up. This has been achieved with the police, so people in Blaenymaes get a real sense of being part of the solution in tackling crime rather than something being done from above," he said.
Mrs James said: "There has been an overall reduction in crime of 20 per cent in Swansea. One of the things we are talking to the Minister about is how do we showcase the good work going on in Swansea across the policing spectrum?
"There are still things we need to work harder at and improve on.
"You can never really take your foot off the pedal, you have to keep working and making sure the community feels safe."
Val Lloyd said: "The whole community has come together to fight crime in Blaenymaes. Good results in Swansea show that local people are serious about tackling crime and anti-social behaviour, and that partnership working is effective."
Portmead resident Jim Hopper said the community still had its problems, but things had improved in recent years.
He added: "We still have our fair share of troublemakers, but I think there is a general feeling that we will not let them win.''
But in a remarkable turnaround things are now on the up again in the city's Blaenymaes and Portmead areas.
They were yesterday visited by Home Office Minister Tony McNulty, who paid tribute to the work done to make life better for locals.
The Broughton Avenue police station has had a friendly mural painted outside. Officials say it is a telling sign of the community's intent not to give in to the criminal element.
Overall in Swansea, official Home Office figures show a fall in crime of 20 per cent in the past three to four years, a reduction equal to 6,000 fewer victims of crime.
Mr McNulty said he was struck by "the enthusiasm there was from both police and local community leaders in driving crime down and working on a positive way for the area.
Mr McNulty spoke to Swansea East MP Sian James, Swansea East AM Val Lloyd and local councillors and volunteers about the progress shown in tackling crime.
"The absolute vibe is that this has been done from the ground up. This has been achieved with the police, so people in Blaenymaes get a real sense of being part of the solution in tackling crime rather than something being done from above," he said.
Mrs James said: "There has been an overall reduction in crime of 20 per cent in Swansea. One of the things we are talking to the Minister about is how do we showcase the good work going on in Swansea across the policing spectrum?
"There are still things we need to work harder at and improve on.
"You can never really take your foot off the pedal, you have to keep working and making sure the community feels safe."
Val Lloyd said: "The whole community has come together to fight crime in Blaenymaes. Good results in Swansea show that local people are serious about tackling crime and anti-social behaviour, and that partnership working is effective."
Portmead resident Jim Hopper said the community still had its problems, but things had improved in recent years.
He added: "We still have our fair share of troublemakers, but I think there is a general feeling that we will not let them win.''
Wednesday, 14 February 2007
£850k cash boost to keep schools open
Swansea is to pour hundreds of thousands of pounds into its crumbling schools in a bid to keep them open.The council has identified 12 schools in urgent need of investment to reduce the risk of closure.
The cash will reduce the risk of further deterioration due to problems such as ageing heating and electrical equipment.New heating and electrical systems are planned along with repairs to leaking roofs and windows.
A total of £850,000 will be splashed out on the dozen schools.But education bosses have accepted that a bigger problem remains.
All of Swansea's 109 schools have undergone a condition survey to give the council a clear picture of how big a problem it faces.
In 2005 a report to council revealed that a massive £50 million in repairs was needed to bring the schools up to scratch.
A survey of Bishop Gore comprehensive in Sketty found a long list of problems.
Councillor Mike Day, the cabinet member for education, has admitted that the council needs to come up with a long term solution to address Swansea's deteriorating schools.
He said: "This winter we have had problems with leaking roofs and windows.
"We also know that many heating and electrical systems are close to the end of their natural life and need replacing.
"This extra funding, along with our annual capital maintenance programme, will tackle urgent areas, but we need a major rethink to address the full scale of the challenge.
"Parents, governors, pupils and staff have already told us during the wide-ranging school organisation consultation that they have concerns over the condition of schools and the facilities available to children.
"This is a Wales-wide problem, but we are committed to working alongside head teachers and agreeing a way forward for schools in the city and county."
Councillor Day said that the council was committed to improving the city's schools and that the £850,000 was on top of £2 million earmarked for school maintenance for the coming financial year.
He said: "We are committed to providing the best possible schools for our children, but many of our school buildings are ageing and deteriorating quite quickly.
"We are making this extra investment to target the most urgent issues in our schools.
"This will help reduce the risk of schools having to close due to maintenance problems.
"This is a significant investment from the council which will address some of the concerns of head teachers, governors, parents and pupils."
The cash will reduce the risk of further deterioration due to problems such as ageing heating and electrical equipment.New heating and electrical systems are planned along with repairs to leaking roofs and windows.
A total of £850,000 will be splashed out on the dozen schools.But education bosses have accepted that a bigger problem remains.
All of Swansea's 109 schools have undergone a condition survey to give the council a clear picture of how big a problem it faces.
In 2005 a report to council revealed that a massive £50 million in repairs was needed to bring the schools up to scratch.
A survey of Bishop Gore comprehensive in Sketty found a long list of problems.
Councillor Mike Day, the cabinet member for education, has admitted that the council needs to come up with a long term solution to address Swansea's deteriorating schools.
He said: "This winter we have had problems with leaking roofs and windows.
"We also know that many heating and electrical systems are close to the end of their natural life and need replacing.
"This extra funding, along with our annual capital maintenance programme, will tackle urgent areas, but we need a major rethink to address the full scale of the challenge.
"Parents, governors, pupils and staff have already told us during the wide-ranging school organisation consultation that they have concerns over the condition of schools and the facilities available to children.
"This is a Wales-wide problem, but we are committed to working alongside head teachers and agreeing a way forward for schools in the city and county."
Councillor Day said that the council was committed to improving the city's schools and that the £850,000 was on top of £2 million earmarked for school maintenance for the coming financial year.
He said: "We are committed to providing the best possible schools for our children, but many of our school buildings are ageing and deteriorating quite quickly.
"We are making this extra investment to target the most urgent issues in our schools.
"This will help reduce the risk of schools having to close due to maintenance problems.
"This is a significant investment from the council which will address some of the concerns of head teachers, governors, parents and pupils."
Saturday, 10 February 2007
Bid to sharpen City businesses' cutting edge
Swansea Council is hoping to encourage cutting-edge businesses to the city with the launch of a new economic strategy.
The aim is to build on the reputation the city already has with leading research and development companies that have already set up in Swansea, including the Technium initiatives and the new £50 million Institute of Life Sciences at Swansea University.
The Economic Regeneration Strategy will set out how new technology companies will fit into Swansea's economy over the next 10 years.
Andrew Davies, Minister for Enterprise, Innovation and Networks, said: "Swansea is playing a leading role in the transformation of Wales as a knowledge economy. This is a bold vision for a region at the cutting edge of research, technology and entrepreneurship."
Council leader Chris Holley said the strategy would help generate the right local economic conditions to create quality jobs for local people.
He said: "This strategy recognises that tackling economic inactivity and equipping our young people with the skills they need is the most effective platform for building economic success.
"It aims to develop key sectors in the local economy that are already doing well such as tourism, computing, life sciences, professional services and creative industries.
"These are very much at the heart of a strong knowledge economy and a revitalised Swansea will be well placed to take advantage of the success story of the city's university, which is a breeding ground for some of the brightest and best entrepreneurs in Wales."
The aim is to build on the reputation the city already has with leading research and development companies that have already set up in Swansea, including the Technium initiatives and the new £50 million Institute of Life Sciences at Swansea University.
The Economic Regeneration Strategy will set out how new technology companies will fit into Swansea's economy over the next 10 years.
Andrew Davies, Minister for Enterprise, Innovation and Networks, said: "Swansea is playing a leading role in the transformation of Wales as a knowledge economy. This is a bold vision for a region at the cutting edge of research, technology and entrepreneurship."
Council leader Chris Holley said the strategy would help generate the right local economic conditions to create quality jobs for local people.
He said: "This strategy recognises that tackling economic inactivity and equipping our young people with the skills they need is the most effective platform for building economic success.
"It aims to develop key sectors in the local economy that are already doing well such as tourism, computing, life sciences, professional services and creative industries.
"These are very much at the heart of a strong knowledge economy and a revitalised Swansea will be well placed to take advantage of the success story of the city's university, which is a breeding ground for some of the brightest and best entrepreneurs in Wales."
Streets get revamp to fit in with city project
Work to add an extra sparkle to Swansea city centre could be completed by next month.The scheme will see roads linking The Kingsway and Oxford Street given a makeover.
The move is ahead of a massive £3.5 million improvement project due to start in April.
Contractors are currently upgrading Upper Union Street, Portland Street and Park Street. The work includes resurfacing of roads and pavements with similar materials as that used for the refurbishment of The Kingsway. It is expected to be completed by the end of March and be followed by the £3.5 million city centre core retail scheme.
The Assembly- funded scheme is aimed at making the city centre a more vibrant and dynamic place to visit.
It will include new street furniture, public art and replacing of roads and pavements.
Chris Holley, leader of Swansea Council, said: "What is happening on Upper Union Street, Portland Street and Park Street is indicative of the long-term plan we have for Swansea city centre.
"Every effort has been made to minimise disruption and traders have and will be kept up to date about the works.
"Work will not commence until after the Easter period to enable adequate consultation with traders over working arrangements and to avoid disruption to business, including the important tourism sector."
Councillor Holley said the work, combined with the various new developments underway in the city, meant that there was a bright future for Swansea.
He said: "We are committed to making the city centre as visually attractive as possible as we make strides towards becoming a European city of distinction.
"Enhancing the appearance of the city centre will supplement ongoing projects such as the regeneration of the former David Evans site and will encourage more people to visit Swansea.
"This will be a boost for local traders and for the local economy."
City centre shopper Sean Tyler, of Gendros, said: " It can't come a minute too soon.''
The move is ahead of a massive £3.5 million improvement project due to start in April.
Contractors are currently upgrading Upper Union Street, Portland Street and Park Street. The work includes resurfacing of roads and pavements with similar materials as that used for the refurbishment of The Kingsway. It is expected to be completed by the end of March and be followed by the £3.5 million city centre core retail scheme.
The Assembly- funded scheme is aimed at making the city centre a more vibrant and dynamic place to visit.
It will include new street furniture, public art and replacing of roads and pavements.
Chris Holley, leader of Swansea Council, said: "What is happening on Upper Union Street, Portland Street and Park Street is indicative of the long-term plan we have for Swansea city centre.
"Every effort has been made to minimise disruption and traders have and will be kept up to date about the works.
"Work will not commence until after the Easter period to enable adequate consultation with traders over working arrangements and to avoid disruption to business, including the important tourism sector."
Councillor Holley said the work, combined with the various new developments underway in the city, meant that there was a bright future for Swansea.
He said: "We are committed to making the city centre as visually attractive as possible as we make strides towards becoming a European city of distinction.
"Enhancing the appearance of the city centre will supplement ongoing projects such as the regeneration of the former David Evans site and will encourage more people to visit Swansea.
"This will be a boost for local traders and for the local economy."
City centre shopper Sean Tyler, of Gendros, said: " It can't come a minute too soon.''
Bendy flexibility fears dismissed
Worries that Swansea's controversial new bendy bus may not be flexible enough have been dismissed by city leaders.
There have been concerns that the scheme, which proposes running 60ft buses from Morriston Hospital to Mumbles, would struggle to get through Woodfield Street's already busy shopping area.
Councillor Robert Francis Davies said many residents had raised concerns and asked how it would navigate the church in the middle of the road.
Swansea Council has dismissed the concerns, adding that it does not envisage significant cost in adapting the Morriston stage of the route.
But Councillor Francis Davies has reservations.He said: "People have heard rumours that the church in the middle of the road was going to be knocked down, but I have had a letter back from the council saying there is no truth in that whatsoever.
"But how will it get through? If it does get through there, how will it turn up Chemical Road? It is quite a hard turn."If it is going to bypass Woodfield Street, how is that going to help the economy of the local area? It is not linked-up thinking.
"If it does go through there, I don't see how it is going to work with the church in the middle of the road."
A council spokesman said a feasibility study of the route for the bus had been completed and that cash for work on the Morriston stage would come from the Assembly.
He said: "In terms of Morriston, the route will travel along main roads already established as bus routes.
"The details of this are currently being examined, but no significant costs are envisaged."
The Swansea Metro scheme has been accepted by the Welsh Assembly Government for transport grant funding. This will include all infrastructure costs. Timescale will depend on the funding announcement from WAG.
"He added that an announcement was due and that the Morriston route would be completed by late next year.But Councillor Francis Davies is not convinced there is support or demand for the bendy bus.
He said: "So far I am yet to find anyone who thinks it is a good idea. Anything that makes roads better would be welcome.
"But Morriston Hospital has probably got the best bus service now, it is a very regular service.
"Will it mean there will be bigger buses at larger intervals?"Councillor Francis Davies said the city centre looked better for the infrastructure improvement done to accommodate the new buses.
But he added: "I don't believe there is a need for a bendy bus.
"It hasn't been thought out and there hasn't been much consultation."
There have been concerns that the scheme, which proposes running 60ft buses from Morriston Hospital to Mumbles, would struggle to get through Woodfield Street's already busy shopping area.
Councillor Robert Francis Davies said many residents had raised concerns and asked how it would navigate the church in the middle of the road.
Swansea Council has dismissed the concerns, adding that it does not envisage significant cost in adapting the Morriston stage of the route.
But Councillor Francis Davies has reservations.He said: "People have heard rumours that the church in the middle of the road was going to be knocked down, but I have had a letter back from the council saying there is no truth in that whatsoever.
"But how will it get through? If it does get through there, how will it turn up Chemical Road? It is quite a hard turn."If it is going to bypass Woodfield Street, how is that going to help the economy of the local area? It is not linked-up thinking.
"If it does go through there, I don't see how it is going to work with the church in the middle of the road."
A council spokesman said a feasibility study of the route for the bus had been completed and that cash for work on the Morriston stage would come from the Assembly.
He said: "In terms of Morriston, the route will travel along main roads already established as bus routes.
"The details of this are currently being examined, but no significant costs are envisaged."
The Swansea Metro scheme has been accepted by the Welsh Assembly Government for transport grant funding. This will include all infrastructure costs. Timescale will depend on the funding announcement from WAG.
"He added that an announcement was due and that the Morriston route would be completed by late next year.But Councillor Francis Davies is not convinced there is support or demand for the bendy bus.
He said: "So far I am yet to find anyone who thinks it is a good idea. Anything that makes roads better would be welcome.
"But Morriston Hospital has probably got the best bus service now, it is a very regular service.
"Will it mean there will be bigger buses at larger intervals?"Councillor Francis Davies said the city centre looked better for the infrastructure improvement done to accommodate the new buses.
But he added: "I don't believe there is a need for a bendy bus.
"It hasn't been thought out and there hasn't been much consultation."
Thursday, 8 February 2007
Don't ruin it with rows
I Attended the Better Swansea Partnership meeting held at the Dylan Thomas Centre recently as one of many business leaders and community councillors from across Swansea.The BSP meeting was a day-long event and presentations were made by city officials on progress that is being made to revitalise Swansea. Plans for the further development of the city were also outlined.
What came across to all present was a general feeling of confidence. This was reflected in discussions with various business leaders who all felt that after years of stagnation under Labour (remember their long-harboured but over-ambitious plans for Castle Quays), the present administration is turning the fortunes of Swansea around.There is a positive buzz about Swansea and its future.
At a time when things are improving, it is a pity that minor squabbles among the parties that form the administration are in danger of undermining what, together, they were all managing to achieve. I hope the parties can put their differences behind them and continue the excellent work they have embarked upon.
Councillor Gillian Evans
Park Road
Gorseinon,
Swansea
What came across to all present was a general feeling of confidence. This was reflected in discussions with various business leaders who all felt that after years of stagnation under Labour (remember their long-harboured but over-ambitious plans for Castle Quays), the present administration is turning the fortunes of Swansea around.There is a positive buzz about Swansea and its future.
At a time when things are improving, it is a pity that minor squabbles among the parties that form the administration are in danger of undermining what, together, they were all managing to achieve. I hope the parties can put their differences behind them and continue the excellent work they have embarked upon.
Councillor Gillian Evans
Park Road
Gorseinon,
Swansea
Saturday, 3 February 2007
Work resumes on Kingsway Revamp Scheme
Work to complete footway improvements along The Kingsway is underway again.
The council started the improvements at the end of 2006 but moved off site temporarily to avoid disrupting the busy shopping period in December.
Contractors have now returned and will be working along the Kingsway to replace and improve pavements and kerbing along its length.
Part of the funding will also be used to install new bus shelters and street lighting as part of the 16-week project.
Head of transportation and engineering Anthony O'Sullivan said: "The works will complement the highway improvements already achieved along The Kingsway.
"The end result will provide shoppers and visitors with a much more pedestrian-friendly environment."
Kingsway trader Alex Rees, of Alexander Hair in Craddock Street, said: "The council has done an excellent job of improving the look of the Kingsway and the surrounding area. The flow of traffic has also improved."
The council started the improvements at the end of 2006 but moved off site temporarily to avoid disrupting the busy shopping period in December.
Contractors have now returned and will be working along the Kingsway to replace and improve pavements and kerbing along its length.
Part of the funding will also be used to install new bus shelters and street lighting as part of the 16-week project.
Head of transportation and engineering Anthony O'Sullivan said: "The works will complement the highway improvements already achieved along The Kingsway.
"The end result will provide shoppers and visitors with a much more pedestrian-friendly environment."
Kingsway trader Alex Rees, of Alexander Hair in Craddock Street, said: "The council has done an excellent job of improving the look of the Kingsway and the surrounding area. The flow of traffic has also improved."
True colour or false?
So, Councillor Margaret Smith, who was elected as an independent but was really a Conservative all the time, has come out and joined the Conservative group (Post, January 24); Councillor Rene Kinzett who stood as Liberal Democrat has suddenly found after all these years that he too is really a Conservative. Meanwhile, councillors Joan Peters and Huw Rees have renounced their Tory views, having only just discovered Liberal Democracy as practised in Swansea. What conclusions should voters draw?
If politicians haven't worked out their political beliefs by the time they have obtained political office, they are not worth voting for. At the 2007 Assembly elections and the 2008 council elections, be sure you can trust those who come asking for your support.
True independents are few and far between and should be eyed with great suspicion on the doorstep. As for Swansea, how can councillors be independent yet form part of the administration?
Members of Plaid Cymru and Labour at least stand for something more than just personal ambition and the pocketing of council allowances; what a pity Plaid didn't take power with Labour in 2004 and save the city and county from the shambles that now passes for local government in County Hall.
Tony Beddow
Wind Rode
Llangennith,
Gower
If politicians haven't worked out their political beliefs by the time they have obtained political office, they are not worth voting for. At the 2007 Assembly elections and the 2008 council elections, be sure you can trust those who come asking for your support.
True independents are few and far between and should be eyed with great suspicion on the doorstep. As for Swansea, how can councillors be independent yet form part of the administration?
Members of Plaid Cymru and Labour at least stand for something more than just personal ambition and the pocketing of council allowances; what a pity Plaid didn't take power with Labour in 2004 and save the city and county from the shambles that now passes for local government in County Hall.
Tony Beddow
Wind Rode
Llangennith,
Gower
Friday, 2 February 2007
Demolition work starts at City store
Demolition work has begun on Swansea's landmark David Evans store.
Concrete canopies surrounding the building have gone. Scaffolding is now going up ahead of full-scale work getting underway on Monday.
Experts say destruction of the building is a complicated process requiring specific machinery. It cannot be simply bulldozed.
The House of Fraser store has been closed since January 2005. A discount chain operated in it for part of last year before pulling out.
Historic medallions will be saved from the front of the old city centre site and if they can be removed intact, Swansea Council has agreed to display them in the gardens of Swansea Museum.
The demolition process will take between 16 and 20 weeks.A completion date for a new shopping centre going up on the land has been set for summer 2008. It will feature six new shops, including Zara, Slater Menswear and JT Morgan, which is moving from its current location in Belle Vue Way.
Council leader Chris Holley said he was pleased demolition was beginning.
He said: "People will soon be able to see work ongoing at David Evans as we move further towards a flagship scheme that will regenerate the city centre."
City centre shoppers yesterday said they were pleased to see work get underway.
Michelle Harris, of Uplands, added however: "Every time I go past it I miss David Evans. It is such a shame it has gone. There's not a lot left and I think a lot of work still has to be done to make the city somewhere people really want to go to."
City centre office worker Les Kelly, of Plasmarl, said: "I just wish David Evans was still there, but I am glad something is at last being done to what was becoming a bit of an eyesore."
Concrete canopies surrounding the building have gone. Scaffolding is now going up ahead of full-scale work getting underway on Monday.
Experts say destruction of the building is a complicated process requiring specific machinery. It cannot be simply bulldozed.
The House of Fraser store has been closed since January 2005. A discount chain operated in it for part of last year before pulling out.
Historic medallions will be saved from the front of the old city centre site and if they can be removed intact, Swansea Council has agreed to display them in the gardens of Swansea Museum.
The demolition process will take between 16 and 20 weeks.A completion date for a new shopping centre going up on the land has been set for summer 2008. It will feature six new shops, including Zara, Slater Menswear and JT Morgan, which is moving from its current location in Belle Vue Way.
Council leader Chris Holley said he was pleased demolition was beginning.
He said: "People will soon be able to see work ongoing at David Evans as we move further towards a flagship scheme that will regenerate the city centre."
City centre shoppers yesterday said they were pleased to see work get underway.
Michelle Harris, of Uplands, added however: "Every time I go past it I miss David Evans. It is such a shame it has gone. There's not a lot left and I think a lot of work still has to be done to make the city somewhere people really want to go to."
City centre office worker Les Kelly, of Plasmarl, said: "I just wish David Evans was still there, but I am glad something is at last being done to what was becoming a bit of an eyesore."
Developers keep quiet on retail park plans
Developers are keeping quiet over the future of a key city centre site in Swansea.
A new firm has bought a 50 per cent share in the first phase of the city's edge-of-town Parc Tawe retail park.
Property firm Hammerson picked up a share in the development when it bought up previous owners LBX's portfolio.
The company has so far failed to return the Post's calls and explain any plans for the prime site.
The other 50 per cent share is owned by property managers Land Securities.
A spokeswoman for the company admitted that new plans for the site were being considered but refused to be drawn on specifics.
Parc Tawe is in urgent need of a revamp.The once hugely popular site was a massive draw for visitors with its cinema, bowling alley and Plantasia hot house.
All three remain along with shops and anchor tenant Toys R Us. But there have been complaints the area has generally become rundown and scruffy.
Former owners LBX admitted the site was "pretty ugly" and that something needed to be done. Expert consultants Roger Tym and Partners, brought in to develop a blueprint for developing Swansea city centre, have also earmarked the site as being in dire need of development.
Visitors to the park are frequently stuck in long queues when they try to leave the car park. Its layout has been heavily criticised.A proposal to move Plantasia and redevelop the site was suggested a few years ago.
Developers argued the siting of the hot house caused problems for traffic management and effectively cut the retail park in two.
But council bosses were not thought to be keen on such a complex proposal.
Traders and politicians have accepted that new life needs to be injected into the park itself.A spokeswoman for Land Securities said that Parc Tawe's future was being reviewed.
She said: "At the moment we are looking at different proposals and doing some consultation with Swansea Council."
A new firm has bought a 50 per cent share in the first phase of the city's edge-of-town Parc Tawe retail park.
Property firm Hammerson picked up a share in the development when it bought up previous owners LBX's portfolio.
The company has so far failed to return the Post's calls and explain any plans for the prime site.
The other 50 per cent share is owned by property managers Land Securities.
A spokeswoman for the company admitted that new plans for the site were being considered but refused to be drawn on specifics.
Parc Tawe is in urgent need of a revamp.The once hugely popular site was a massive draw for visitors with its cinema, bowling alley and Plantasia hot house.
All three remain along with shops and anchor tenant Toys R Us. But there have been complaints the area has generally become rundown and scruffy.
Former owners LBX admitted the site was "pretty ugly" and that something needed to be done. Expert consultants Roger Tym and Partners, brought in to develop a blueprint for developing Swansea city centre, have also earmarked the site as being in dire need of development.
Visitors to the park are frequently stuck in long queues when they try to leave the car park. Its layout has been heavily criticised.A proposal to move Plantasia and redevelop the site was suggested a few years ago.
Developers argued the siting of the hot house caused problems for traffic management and effectively cut the retail park in two.
But council bosses were not thought to be keen on such a complex proposal.
Traders and politicians have accepted that new life needs to be injected into the park itself.A spokeswoman for Land Securities said that Parc Tawe's future was being reviewed.
She said: "At the moment we are looking at different proposals and doing some consultation with Swansea Council."
Makeover for City Store
A Swansea superstore is to be given a major face-lift which bosses hope will give it the edge in the battle for shoppers' cash.Sainsbury's on Quay Parade in the city centre is to be gutted and given a big-money makeover.
The work will boost the space available for stocking non-food items, as the big supermarkets increasingly compete to offer one-stop-shopping to customers.
The store will be closed from 6pm on Saturday, February 24 until 9am on Tuesday, March 1 to allow the work to be carried out.
When it reopens the new shop will have more space for home furnishings, clothing, electrical items, DVDs and music as well as new jewellery, lighting and DIY and car-care sections.
The work will also involve moving the in-store pharmacy and upgrading the cafe. The outside of the riverfront shop will not change.
Supermarkets are increasingly turning to non-grocery items as they fight for market share.Last week Asda in Morriston offered cut-price DVD players to customers, selling its entire batch of 500 of the £9 machines in a day.
That deal followed the promotion of £19 men's suits in the same store.Meanwhile, the future of the Tesco superstore on Oystermouth Road remains uncertain.
Company bosses had wanted to massively increase the size of the shop by adding a second floor, and boost parking with an extra 170 spaces in a two-storey car park.
But they withdrew the plans after consultation with Swansea Council.
Tesco is now in the process of drawing up a fresh planning application, but have not released any details.Last month the company denied rumours it wanted to move to Parc Tawe.
John Hughes, manager of the Sainsbury's store, said he hoped the new-look branch would be a hit with shoppers.
He added: "We are glad to be providing our customers with this new improved shopping experience, and everyone is really excited about its transformation."
The work will boost the space available for stocking non-food items, as the big supermarkets increasingly compete to offer one-stop-shopping to customers.
The store will be closed from 6pm on Saturday, February 24 until 9am on Tuesday, March 1 to allow the work to be carried out.
When it reopens the new shop will have more space for home furnishings, clothing, electrical items, DVDs and music as well as new jewellery, lighting and DIY and car-care sections.
The work will also involve moving the in-store pharmacy and upgrading the cafe. The outside of the riverfront shop will not change.
Supermarkets are increasingly turning to non-grocery items as they fight for market share.Last week Asda in Morriston offered cut-price DVD players to customers, selling its entire batch of 500 of the £9 machines in a day.
That deal followed the promotion of £19 men's suits in the same store.Meanwhile, the future of the Tesco superstore on Oystermouth Road remains uncertain.
Company bosses had wanted to massively increase the size of the shop by adding a second floor, and boost parking with an extra 170 spaces in a two-storey car park.
But they withdrew the plans after consultation with Swansea Council.
Tesco is now in the process of drawing up a fresh planning application, but have not released any details.Last month the company denied rumours it wanted to move to Parc Tawe.
John Hughes, manager of the Sainsbury's store, said he hoped the new-look branch would be a hit with shoppers.
He added: "We are glad to be providing our customers with this new improved shopping experience, and everyone is really excited about its transformation."
Thursday, 1 February 2007
Casino will help put City on map
The big money casino revolution on its way to Swansea should help put it on the UK map, council leaders have promised.
The assurance has come just 24 hours after the authority won its bid for a so-called small casino licence in a big shake up of gaming laws unveiled by the Government.
It means gambling companies will be able to apply to run a casino in the city with up to 80 jackpot machines paying out up to £4,000 at a time instead of the current £2,000 limit.
The winning casino will also be able to open a bookmakers on the premises for the first time.
A decision on where it is going will not come until later this year, although three rival bids are thought to be on the table.
Experts say it is good news for Swansea and will add to its growing leisure and entertainment line-up.
However, there have been fears raised over a rise in problem gamblers and addicts in the county.
Castle ward councillor David Phillips said he was disappointed by the decision adding: "It will inevitably lead to an increase in gambling in the city and the associated social problems that will bring.
"It is particularly disappointing as the details of the council's policy to deal with the associated problems has not been finalised."
But Swansea Council leaders are confident that there are enough safeguards in place to prevent large scale problems.
"And they say it will bring in extra cash to the area as people visit to play at its machines and gaming tables.
Cabinet member for leisure and tourism Gerald Clement said: "I think being the only one in Wales, there is a responsibility on us to make sure that it is a well-run and flagship casino.
"We can assure all those with concerns that we will be robust in our licensing and any possible breaches that may arise.
"Operators bidding for the new licence believe regulated gambling in casinos is safer for punters.
Andrew Herd, head of strategy and development at Aspers casino about to open as part of Swansea's Salubrious Place scheme said: "What we believe is that someone who comes into a casino is safer and better looked after than someone who gambles at home on the internet. Our staff can see if they are inebriated, or if there are other problems and deal with that. At home there may be no one to stop them."
Council leader Chris Holley also backed claims that casinos are a better place to bet than internet sites. He added: "The council would ensure better regulated gambling in Swansea in line with the new Gambling Act, which seeks to protect young and vulnerable groups, ensure gambling isn't a source of crime and disorder and is conducted in a fair and transparent manner.''
Fiona Rees, executive director of Swansea Futures, welcomed the coming of the new casino.
She said: "It is excellent news in terms of raising the profile of the city, and it is a really positive step.
"We were the only place in Wales to be successful, and it highlights the regeneration going on here.
"It helps to put the city on the map, and people who perhaps wouldn't have considered Swansea before will look at us and want to find out more about what we're doing and the opportunities we have to offer."
The assurance has come just 24 hours after the authority won its bid for a so-called small casino licence in a big shake up of gaming laws unveiled by the Government.
It means gambling companies will be able to apply to run a casino in the city with up to 80 jackpot machines paying out up to £4,000 at a time instead of the current £2,000 limit.
The winning casino will also be able to open a bookmakers on the premises for the first time.
A decision on where it is going will not come until later this year, although three rival bids are thought to be on the table.
Experts say it is good news for Swansea and will add to its growing leisure and entertainment line-up.
However, there have been fears raised over a rise in problem gamblers and addicts in the county.
Castle ward councillor David Phillips said he was disappointed by the decision adding: "It will inevitably lead to an increase in gambling in the city and the associated social problems that will bring.
"It is particularly disappointing as the details of the council's policy to deal with the associated problems has not been finalised."
But Swansea Council leaders are confident that there are enough safeguards in place to prevent large scale problems.
"And they say it will bring in extra cash to the area as people visit to play at its machines and gaming tables.
Cabinet member for leisure and tourism Gerald Clement said: "I think being the only one in Wales, there is a responsibility on us to make sure that it is a well-run and flagship casino.
"We can assure all those with concerns that we will be robust in our licensing and any possible breaches that may arise.
"Operators bidding for the new licence believe regulated gambling in casinos is safer for punters.
Andrew Herd, head of strategy and development at Aspers casino about to open as part of Swansea's Salubrious Place scheme said: "What we believe is that someone who comes into a casino is safer and better looked after than someone who gambles at home on the internet. Our staff can see if they are inebriated, or if there are other problems and deal with that. At home there may be no one to stop them."
Council leader Chris Holley also backed claims that casinos are a better place to bet than internet sites. He added: "The council would ensure better regulated gambling in Swansea in line with the new Gambling Act, which seeks to protect young and vulnerable groups, ensure gambling isn't a source of crime and disorder and is conducted in a fair and transparent manner.''
Fiona Rees, executive director of Swansea Futures, welcomed the coming of the new casino.
She said: "It is excellent news in terms of raising the profile of the city, and it is a really positive step.
"We were the only place in Wales to be successful, and it highlights the regeneration going on here.
"It helps to put the city on the map, and people who perhaps wouldn't have considered Swansea before will look at us and want to find out more about what we're doing and the opportunities we have to offer."
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)