Private sector cash could be used to finally deliver the long awaited transformation of Swansea's run down Quadrant bus station.
Assembly Minister for Enterprise, Innovation and Networks, Andrew Davies, has handed Swansea Council a bumper £8.23 million as part of the transport grant settlement.
Up to £3.88 million of that could be used to push forward the redevelopment of the Quadrant bus station - it is increasingly being criticised for its poor condition.The cash has been awarded to the council's transport package, which includes the Landore express bus route, Quadrant Interchange, extension of the Landore park and ride, and internal works to High Street station.
An Assembly spokesman said it would be up to Swansea Council how the cash was split among the schemes.
But Mr Davies has revealed that talks are planned between Swansea Council and First Cymru to look at the company investing in the scheme.
Exact details of how that would work and whether it would mean further delays to a scheme that has been on the drawing board for a number of years is not yet known. Swansea Council has won planning permission for the project that would see a new bus terminal created along with a travel and information centre, improved office and toilet facilities, and food and drink shops.
It has agreed a deal for the land that busses currently use to turn around.
But the scheme could now change with First Cymru on board. Justin Davies, from First Cymru in Swansea, said the company had worked on similar schemes across the UK and had plenty of experience.
He added: "If we can bring that to bear on the bus station redevelopment then that is something."We will be looking at the announcement and talking to our property teams, and getting them to look at the schemes but it is at a very early stage.
"We are keen to come on board. Everyone wants the Quadrant redoing, but it is too early to talk about timetables yet."
Mr Davies said: "I am delighted to announce this funding allocation of more than £8 million for Swansea to support its transport schemes.
"This allocation will enable Swansea to take forward the redevelopment of the Quadrant bus station and improve transport in the Swansea area."
The £8.23 million transport grant includes cash for a variety of schemes including the bendy bus scheme, £100,000 for the Hafod integrated transport study and £305,000 for the county's Safe Routes to School schemes.
Mr Davies said: "This funding demonstrates our absolute commitment to promoting sustainable transport, and providing an effective and integrated transport system for the people of Swansea."
