Recommendations proposed to improve city centre

DEVELOPING more green spaces and encouraging more flexible opening hours would help improve Swansea city centre in the short-term, according to a Swansea Council Overview and Scrutiny Board.

The recommendations are among several proposed by the board in the wake of its members reviewing city centre-related issues.

The review was triggered by volatile economic conditions across the UK and beyond that mean many city centre traders are still experiencing tough times.

Greater participation from residents in how the city centre develops over the course of the next decade is also being recommended along with a review of city centre transport.

A report based on the review praises partnership work between city centre businesses, Swansea Council and Swansea BID (Business Improvement District). Swansea Council is also commended for taking the lead on developing strategies and plans to tackle concerns raised by traders.

Cllr June Evans, Chair of the Environment and Communities Overview and Scrutiny Board, said: "These are hard times for city centre traders because of tough economic conditions and competition from out-of-town retail parks and internet shopping.

"Our traders are the lifeblood of our city centre and this is why we spent a significant amount of time looking at the issues facing the city centre and the measures in place to address the concerns that have been raised.

"The work carried out during the review has made it more clear than ever how important the city centre is to the overall well-being and identity of Swansea."

A report based on the findings of the review with a series of recommendations will soon go to Swansea Council's Cabinet for approval.

Cllr Evans said: "There are clear examples of schemes and relationships that are working well in the city centre but there are other areas that can certainly be improved.

"We feel more greenery would make the city centre shopping experience more pleasant and that a review of city centre transport is needed.

"We also feel there should be more opportunities for residents to shape how the city centre develops to ensure they get a city centre that meets their aspirations."

Have a look at http://www.swanseacitycentre.com for more information about Swansea city centre and the services available there.

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