A businessman behind the restoration and reopening of Swansea’s historic Albert Hall has praised the regeneration of the city.
Simon Baston, director of LoftCo, says Swansea has a bright future in store thanks to the number of completed, ongoing and planned projects forming part of an investment worth over £1 billion.
Dating back to 1864, the four-storey Albert Hall on Cradock Street now includes a food hall and bar, private entertainment space, offices, studios, visitor accommodation, a gym and a rooftop garden.
Its refurbishment was part-funded by the Welsh Government, with support from Swansea Council.
Mr Baston said:
“We’re delighted that the Albert Hall has now reopened, and the feedback from customers so far has been really pleasing.
“It’s just one of many projects that are transforming Swansea though, with the Palace Theatre building also due to reopen next month.
“Swansea Council has done a fantastic job in investing in the city and this has helped attract private sector investment too.
“The arena is open, new office schemes are nearing completion and there’s plenty more that’s planned for the coming years.
“This is helping raise Swansea’s profile across the UK, while creating jobs and more venues for local people to enjoy.”
Due to be operated by Tramshed Tech, the Palace Theatre building on High Street will be reopening on Thursday November 7.
Other schemes led by Swansea Council include the ‘Y Storfa’ community services hub which is being constructed at the former BHS unit on Oxford Street.
Part-funded by the Swansea Bay City Deal, a new office development is taking shape at 71/72 Kingsway, and plans are in place to revamp Castle Square Gardens.
A public sector hub accommodating close to 1,000 workers is proposed for the former St David’s Shopping Centre site as part of a larger development being led by Urban Splash.
