SWANSEA EASTSIDE CONNECTIONS MAY 2015

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Contents 1. Introduction...... 4 5. Broader strategic considerations...... 50 Context ...... 5 Place promotion and city branding...... 51 Study area...... 5 Planning criteria...... 51 Approach...... 9 Signposting ...... 52 Outcomes...... 9 Recognising there are hills here...... 53 Constraints...... 10 Maintaining initiatives...... 54 Report structure...... 11 Community engagement and ownership...... 54 Measuring impact...... 55 2. Crymlyn and the Tennant Canal...... 12 Key issues...... 13 6. Conclusion...... 56 Initiatives...... 14 Appendix 1 – References...... 58 3. The Lower Tawe ...... 26 Appendix 2 – Stakeholders...... 59 Key issues...... 27 Initiatives...... 28 Contact details...... 60 4. ...... 40 Key issues...... 41 Initiatives...... 42 INTRODUCTION

ONE

4 Urban Foundry is commissioned by Natural Natural resource management is the The Environment Bill has the following benefitting the wider economy by creating a Resources (‘NRW’) to ‘explore the management of natural resources such as underlying principles: tourism destination . potential offered by the Lower River Tawe, land, water, soil, plants and animals, with a Kilvey Hill, , and the Tennant particular focus on how management affects • Wales’ natural resources are among our most On completion of the trials NRW aims to develop Canal, the connections of these green the quality of life for both present and future valuable assets; a successful template for the implementation spaces to each other and the surrounding generations . • our natural resources are as fundamental to of area-based planning across Wales . communities’. the long-term success of our economy as they The Tawe Trial and are to the quality of the natural environment and the well-being of our communities; Study area the policy context • long-term economic prosperity must go hand- in-hand with the health and resilience of the Context The Tawe Trial aims to work with local partners environment that supports us; and As part of the Tawe Trial NRW staff identified to examine the issues, challenges and • strategic challenges we face demand a long- several underutilised key sites that sit in opportunities for using and managing natural term approach to decision-making with an East, namely: The Tawe Trial resources to deliver more for people, the emphasis on managing natural resources in environment and the economy . There are nine a proactive, joined-up and informed way by • Kilvey Hill; This commission is a part of the ‘Tawe Trial’, projects underway across the Tawe catchment, using the best available evidence directed • Crymlyn Bog; which is 1 of 3 trial areas that have been set with this commission one of them . at achieving the maximum possible lasting • the Tennant Canal; and up by NRW to test and explore the ‘ecosystem benefit . • the Lower Tawe (for the purposes of this study approach’ to natural resource management at The information and learning from the various this is the section of river from the Liberty an area level . projects will be used to develop a draft The principles above stress a long-term Stadium to the sea and includes both banks) . ‘Area Statement’ setting out the key issues, approach and this report takes a similar, The ecosystem approach is: opportunities and priorities for the future use strategic view, albeit initiatives are identified These four areas form the study area for this and management of natural resources in the that are achievable in the short and medium commission . “a holistic and inclusive approach to looking Tawe catchment . term . The Environment Bill will provide a fresh after the natural environment. It helps apply legal framework to manage Wales’ natural The study area is currently isolated and relatively current thinking about ecosystem services In turn, that will inform how NRW implements resources in a joined-up and sustainable peripheral to development thinking . Despite (what nature does for people) in line with the requirements of the Environment Bill, way and support achievement of wellbeing long-standing recognition of its isolation from sustainable development. It is the primary which proposes a new duty for NRW to prepare goals – it has strong links to the Wellbeing Bill the rest of the city and the need to rectify that, framework for action under the international area statements that set out the priorities and processes, principles and aims . it remains disconnected with no clear current Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD).” opportunities for the sustainable management strategy for its effective integration in physical of natural resources for that place . With further support, the intent is for the Tawe or thematic terms . Indeed, many recent (ecosystemsknowledge .net) Trial to provide benefits to deprived communities developments have further exacerbated the by improving health and wellbeing as well as relative isolation of these areas .

5 Study area

6 The reasons for its disconnection are in part challenges and does not seek to revisit these geographical, due to the river, and a steep in detail – Appendix 1 contains references to and polluted hill (a legacy of the industrial various documents that give futher context . revolution), beyond which lies the wetlands of Crymlyn Bog . The west bank of the river The countryside of the hill is clearly valued by is bounded by the river on one side and the communities that bound it – it is clearly railway lines on another . In addition, two major their countryside and there is much informal human-related obstacles, the east side road recreation, as well as more formalised and hugely busy Fabian Way, created in the activities through NRW woodland on the hill, post-War period, significantly altered the city’s including mountain bike trails, community central structure . woodland initiatives and various community arts projects amongst other initiatives . As the new route to Cardiff (previously the route However, the valuation of these assets from went to the north of the city up the Swansea a nature conservation standpoint and by the Valley) gained prominence and motor vehicle communities that immediately surround them traffic volumes steadily increased, the east has not translated into their valuation for wider side communities became increasingly cut off development thinking as part of the socio- to pedestrian and cycle movements . Modern economic regeneration of the city . As assests traffic schemes, including the most recent Poor connectivity between the St Thomas grid and SA1 of the City Region they have great potential but changes to the Tawe road bridge junctions and they are currently significantly underachieving . the west end of Fabian Way have paid little Following on from the Lower Swansea Valley riverside is recognised as a ‘wildlife corridor’, heed to pedestrian and cycle movements . project (to the north west of this study area) the and these sites are all recognised as key Despite its peripherality, the east side of the once barren hillsides, blighted by the very industry ecological assets within a citywide mapping of city does not remain static and the urban Similarly, for all of its positives and potential for that defined much of the form and position of such corridors and reservoirs . area is sprawling – urbanisation has been the city, the investment in the SA1 area to the modern Swansea, have been replanted . slowly creeping along the northern edge south of Fabian Way has paid scant attention Whilst they are geographically peripheral, of the study area, heading eastwards, for (in spatial alignment and physical design at the For some time, Crymlyn Bog and Kilvey Hill the environment in these areas is well some time . The increased urbanisation of the very least) to the established community to the have been recognised from an ecological understood, valued and protected in a formal significant Coed Darcy development to the north . There are no effective connections to perspective for their biodiversity and they sense, principally by NRW and the two local east of Crymlyn Bog will further underline that those communities . are seen as ‘wildlife reservoirs’, with the authorities . process . But the south, until relatively recently, former a Site of Special Scientific Interest was leftover industrial wasteland – declining (SSSI), National Nature Reserve (NNR), and a This study recognises a considerable array of port and associated rail yards and industrial designated wetland of international importance work and knowledge that exists in terms of uses . No longer – a £450m second campus under the Ramsar Convention . The Tawe the ecological riches and also the associated for Swansea University will be operational

7 Urban sprawl gradually encircling the study area imminently, with full completion by 2017, Join these urban areas up and the natural and University of Wales Trinity Saint David is assets cease to be a peripheral area to the planning a similarly ambitious development north east of a compact and geographically of the Prince of Wales Dock and surrounding constrained city centre . Instead, they become land in partnership with Welsh Government . central to the larger conurbation; Swansea’s These, coupled with major investments at Bay Central Park – an urban wilderness to be Studios and Amazon, along with the potential recognised and planned for as such . That is of a £1bn investment to create the world’s first the ambition of this process – to realise the tidal lagoon will stimulate development of the potential of these remarkable natural assets, Fabian Way corridor . Access to the landfall for proud accoutrements of so many other the Lagoon is planned to be a relatively short cities, but which are taken for granted, seen distance to the south of the bog and eastern as problems, even as landfill and dumping fringe of community . grounds .

A masterplan produced by the City and Effectively connected (physically and County of Swansea Council indicates expected thematically) with the wider city, the potential development towards the Swansea University of these assets as core elements of the city’s second campus in the not too distant future . offer can be realised for the benefit of local It is not a significant stretch to see how to the people as well as visitors from further afield . south the city will join to the urban areas of in the east .

Fabian Way corridor draft masterplan. Source: City and County of Swansea Council 8 area, and carried out fieldwork developing a Logic chain model Approach detailed understanding of the nature of the key connectivity issues as well as potential The study area is vast . This study is principally means of addressing these, further tested focused on connectivity – overcoming the in discussion with various key stakeholders, physical barriers to people accessing these including NRW officers . natural resources . The study does consider what happens once that access is achieved, but the primary focus has been on initiatives that get people to these natural assets from Outcomes the surrounding and future built environment . Need Stakeholders Our workshop-based approach generated a Several broad issues affect the study area; The workshop then considered whose needs At the outset an inception meeting generated logic chain for the initiative, drawing the causal these were identified and summarised in the these were, and began to identify the range of a detailed background and context for links between need (including whose needs they workshop with NRW officers into a series of stakeholders to whom the study was relevant . the commission, tested some of our initial were) and desired outcomes . key needs/issues as follows: A list is attached as Appendix 2 . assumptions, explored potential areas of conflict, and reviewed our proposed approach The purpose was twofold – firstly, to ensure • poor awareness and attitude towards these assets; The intention was not to develop a particularly in light of the range of other Tawe wide internal stakeholder ‘buy in’ within NRW, • poor physical connectivity; comprehensive list, but rather to highlight Trial projects and initiatives underway, including and secondly to ensure that the work had • relatively weak engagement by the public with the range of complimentary and competing a number of community consultation activities . a clear focus that can be translated (with the natural environment in these areas; interests within the study area . some further revision once the Tawe Trial • poverty (including a range of poor health data); A desk-based study of existing documentation is concluded) into a clear rationale for the • insufficient joined up thinking across agencies held by NRW was followed by a workshop with allocation of public resources . for these areas; Outcomes NRW staff, which sought to develop a logic • habitat under threat/in need of improvement Needs were related to a series of outcomes, chain – identifying the key issues and the Specifically, the logic chain places the issue (including fly tipping issues); and which were prioritised and collated to produce desired outcomes for this study . The results of of physical connectivity into a wider context, • poor water quality. a focused set of outcomes from the workshop . that workshop are detailed later in this section . which fits within the broader ecosystems The outcomes framework developed is detailed approach . In the case of water quality, this has improved overleaf . Following the workshop we undertook a year on year in the local area but then reached a broader desk-based study of documentation The workshop also considered the constraints plateau . NRW has realised that it is not possible from a variety of stakeholders (references are for realising the identified outcomes as well as to get improved water quality unless people are included in Appendix 1), conducted a series of some initial thoughts on the activities needed involved across the whole catchment. Links to, discussions with key individuals from various to achieve them . and the nature of, surrounding urban areas are organisations with an interest in the study important to this .

9 If NRW and its partners, supported by this There is a substantial and growing body constraints of austerity and the need to find commission (as well as other Tawe Trial of knowledge that details the impacts of Constraints new ways of delivering services, the significant projects) can: improved access to the natural environment – and continuing reductions in budgets is placing a brief summary of the key impacts is provided Aside from the physical geographical severe strain on public bodies and approaches • improve physical connections to and within in an accompanying paper drawn from our constraints outlined previously, there are are not always joined up and are often risk sites (including ecological connections); evaluation work . various other constraints to realising the averse and/or under-resourced . • increase awareness of these natural assets; potential of these assets, with two particularly and Drawing the long-term causal links between prominent ones identified by NRW officers as Mixed landownership • increase the number of activities for people to the achievement of improved awareness of follows: engage with within the study area; and access to the natural environment and The land ownership across the area is mixed . wider social, environmental and economic A diverse and often conflicted group of Two local authorities own some large tracts then we can: impacts and the long-term impacts is stakeholders of land, and NRW has ownership/leasehold important in justifying the importance and of large areas, but there are many private • improve accessibility of these green spaces to positioning of these initiatives . Many of these The study area is large with a lot of stakeholders . landowners and other agencies, not all of communities; wider impacts directly contribute to specific There are various highly localised conflicts, whom have an interest in/are particularly • improve the use of specific assets (including local policies, such as Swansea’s designation such as: willing to engage with efforts to realise the key sites like Crymlyn Visitor Centre and as a WHO Healthy City and the Swansea East wider benefits of these natural resources for footfall in the Reserve); and Communities First Cluster . • walkers/riders/cyclists (access) v landowners; the benefit of the local population and the • improve attitudes towards these natural • motorbike scramblers v other users/ wider City Region . resources; Once the full range of project findings has been conservationists; and established a series of activities/initiatives can • anglers v other water users. and this in turn will encourage: be identified and prioritised for further action – Activities many of these initial findings and proposals will There are also more general issues affecting • more people to become involved in the require further detailed study to assess their the whole area (e .g . tensions between vehicular Finally, the workshop considered some of the planning and management of these natural feasibility, providing a firmer indication of the movement and pedestrian/cycle movements) . activities or initiatives that might be undertaken resources; inputs required, allowing NRW to establish a in order to achieve the outcomes identified . • reduction of conflicts and anti-social behaviour series of quantifiable outputs . At that stage, • car movement v pedestrians and cyclists; These formed the beginnings of the following (e .g . fly tipping); a more focused evaluation framework can be • longer-term strategic planning v shorter term report and were augmented and added to • safeguard the natural environment; and developed into SMART (specific, measurable, limited discrete initiatives; and through our further fieldwork . • contribute to wider socio-economic achievable, relevant and timed) formats with • economic development v ‘greening’ (often a development of local communities (including associated indicators that allow for shared perceived conflict) . improvements to health and wellbeing of local multi-agency measurement of progress and people) and the wider City Region . impact . Whilst public sector agencies are evolving and changing, much of it in part driven by the

10 Report structure

The report considers the study area in three sections; Crymlyn Bog (including the Tennant canal); the Lower Tawe; and Kilvey Hill. Each section summarises some of the key issues for these three areas and then identifies a range of initiatives to address issues of connectivity . A further section identifies a series of non- physical issues to be considered to improve connectivity before a brief conclusion and summary of the key recommendations .

Various documents relate to the study area and these are referred to at key points and are also summarised in Appendix 1 . Additional supporting materials are attached in the appendices .

At various points through the report we reference past initiatives that were undertaken by the bodies that came together to form NRW – the Countryside Council for Wales, the Environment Agency and Forestry Commission Wales . For ease, we refer to all past work being that of NRW .

All Ordnance Survey maps used in this report are reproduced by Permission of Ordnance Survey on behalf of HMSO.

© Crown copyright and database right 2015. Ordnance Survey Licence number 100019741. CRYMLYN BOG ANDTHE TENNANT CANAL

TWO

12 Crymlyn Bog is a vast SSSI area – a real view from the more urbanised areas and busier towards Neath . Following the canal route to the wilderness on the city’s edge, which is roads in the south . NRW’s Crymlyn Bog Visitor south, between the southern edge of the bog unknown to many long-time residents and Centre is accessed along a relatively narrow and the railway lines is the Wales Coastal Path, accessed by relatively few people. It is road . It is tucked away and suffers from low used by cyclists and walkers (many for getting managed by NRW and there is an existing visitor numbers . to work at the huge Amazon warehouse to the study that identifies a series of boardwalks east end of the path) but with scope for much and initiatives for the site, which remains In the southwest corner, the bog touches greater footfall for recreational purposes . relevant and worthy of reading in its own against the eastern edge of Port Tennant, but right – key points from that study are modern developments here, as with other South of Fabian Way there is significant repeated here. locations in the study area, have paid no investment by Swansea University with the attention to the visual riches of the stunning development of its second campus, nearing There has been past interest in opening up natural environment close by . completion, plus the successful Bay Studios the Tennant Canal, which connects through at the former Visteon car plant to the east . to Neath and beyond, and the Canals Trust as At what we shall call Crymlyn Basin – the Additionally, to the southeast, there is the well as local community groups, including the old canal basin to the east of Port Tennant, imminent commencement of development of community organisation that has established just north of Fabian Way where the Tennant the SA1 site through a partnership between the Copper Jack Community Boat, have an Canal now terminates as it dwindles to a University of Wales Trinity Saint David and interest in seeing the canal develop with small culverted stream beneath Fabian Way Welsh Government . associated studies undertaken to assess – the modern housing development is inward viability .Despite that, the canal does not feature looking, turning its back on the basin .Yet, as so These developments, which will be significantly significantly in current development thinking often happens, whilst the housing developers Houses at Marcroft turning their backs on the basin boosted by a positive response to the Tidal despite the city’s ‘waterfront’ branding . did not recognise the richness of the assets on Removed fence panels indicate a desire to access the Lagoon proposals, are fuelling renewed their doorstep, the people that live there have . natural asset so nearby interest in the SA1 area for development with There is evidence that residents here value the some speculative infill development likely in the resource with fencing panels removed to create Running from the former basin, eastwards along near future between these sites . That brings Key issues access .That access needs to be facilitated and the southerly fringes of the bog is the Tennant the likelihood of quite significant activity south encouraged . Canal – it is presently largely overgrown for of Fabian Way, plus the likelihood of further The bog is isolated, with hills enclosing it apart much of its length and blocked further east development on the northern stretch from Elba from at its southern edge, and with railway The community facilities at Ashlands, though (to preserve water quality upstream due to Road down past the studios to Amazon and lines and Fabian Way cutting it off to the south . relatively well used and treasured, suffer from potential harm from sedimented pollutants in perhaps beyond . relative isolation from the communities that the lower stretches at the Port Tennant end) It is poorly signposted with few visual cues that they are there to serve, and are visibly subject but the canal bed and banks are still there . The The creation of a new access road behind there is something there to be accessed – the to security rather than welcoming features . spur of the Glan y Wern canal extends off to Amazon, plus the addition of a northern link TWO topography of the land shields the bog from the north, whilst the Tennant Canal continues to Coed Darcy from that road, further changes

13 the dynamics of this area – it is changing, and All are growing and slowly encircling the area . a route, an ecological venue in its own right, will do so rapidly over the coming years . A road is also planned from the ‘Amazon Initiatives but it will need further study to determine the Road’ in the south with a bridge over the bog impact that providing access to that currently Connectivity for residential, academic and to connect to the Coed Darcy development . The first task is to ensure that local communities isolated site will have . business users, as well as visitors (especially All of that creeping urbanisation can have (and the emergent new ones), all round, have if the Lagoon gets the go ahead) will need to positive benefits for the bog – framing it and ready, enjoyable access to, round and down Extend boardwalks from the north side of the consider not just existing developments but a valuing it as a prized natural resource, but the hills to the bog and over to the hill itself . island to meet the edge of the landfill site and rapidly changing Fabian Way corridor where only if it is approached strategically . Currently, skirt that edge at the lower level until it meets the temptation will be to look east and west development pays little attention to the bog Crymlyn Basin circular walk the Tir John access road car park further down . and south towards the Bay but to allow the and that must be redressed . With the existing Coastal Path in the south, and traffic heavy Fabian Way to create a barrier The first suggested project – a relatively ‘quick the remainder of the route along the Tir John to northward connectivity . Resolving that with The bog is a site with significant potential – the win’ – is on the eastern fringe of the borough . access road and Ashlands entrance, this will such a key arterial route in the way presents a key task is to identify and improve access and The Crymlyn Basin used to provide moorings offer Port Tennant residents, and the wider major challenge but one that the key agencies, connectivity both for existing communities as and turning space for the industrial barges of population, a walking circuit around the basin with NRW at the fore, must address . well as putting in the right markers for future the 19th century . Nature has reclaimed virtually – beginning to elevate its prominence and developments, whilst being sensitive to its the whole area with reed beds and woodland . introduce a first ‘taster’ of the more extensive Moving back northeast from the basin towards SSSI status . Wildlife abounds . bog and network with a relatively low cost, the substantive areas of the bog, the large Tir ‘quick win’ initiative . John landfill site dominates a large area, with Various documents already exist that consider Just past the Ashlands sports ground, a its associated security measures – fencing the accessibility of the bog both from the footbridge is proposed over the Tennant canal and a restricted access road . But this will also surrounding areas and within it . Particularly, to the eponymous Chemical Island, now an “Extend boardwalks from the north become part of the bog in the relatively near accessibility within the bog itself is already well intriguing nature reserve in its own right. Here, side of the island to meet the edge future with landfill operations ending there and thought through, with a clear understanding nature has fought back against pollution over a handover of the site likely in the medium of the key routes and sites to consider – this the past 150 years or so . of the landfill site and skirt that term . was developed as a Communities And Nature edge at the lower level.” (CAN) bid, which was unsuccessful at the Beyond that, the bog stretches north, time, but which has most of the key principles “A footbridge is proposed over the surrounded by land that is largely rural or covered . That report needs to be revisited and Tennant Canal to the eponymous As well as recreational walks there is also an wild in nature, but urbanisation is creeping updated, but is essentially sound in its thinking . Chemical Island.” opportunity to use additional boardwalks for around that northerly fringe – communities of Therefore, this section of the report principally public monitoring of the leechings of nitrates Bonymaen, Trallwn and Winch Wen, Skewen to focuses on the connectivity to the edges of the and nitrites, phosphates and ammonia from the far north, and to the east the significant bog and its immediate surroundings . A survey of that island from a natural the Tir John landfill site nearby and there is St Modwen’s Coed Darcy development (which reclamation environmental bio diversity basis scope for both natural asset interpretation as will overlook the eastern fringes of the bog) . is advisable – explore it and make it part of well as interpretation of how the reed beds

14 are nature’s way of recovering the site – that This initiative at Crymlyn Basin begins the Gateway initiative for Ashlands Marcroft merit inclusion in a housing and sub- is a good story to tell and worthy of a small process of opening up a south west gateway centre plan that will likely burgeon as the new initiative in its own right . that can be continued through a future re- A picnic area with tables/seating and a university campuses and the Lagoon settle in, opened Tir John site and on into the bog to children’s play project should be established just across Fabian Way . In the next decade or This is just one gateway to be opened connect with boardwalks that already exist/ as a gateway at the Ashlands entrance to so, housing is likely to spring up all over this eastwards to a new network of boardwalks have been previously identified by NRW . encourage more activity on this fringe of the area and more detailed urban design study of around the vast boglands .The Tir John site will, residential area and announce the basin and these settlements is warranted to ensure that it in the long term, cease to be a fenced area and Proposals in the NRW CAN bid remain relevant the bog beyond to the local community . is ready to meet these new demands, including will open up for public access . At this stage it and should be adopted – this includes how a new sub-centre might evolve there for is not possible to map specific routes through extending boardwalks to skirt the Tir John site the benefit of existing and future residents . the Tir John site, though some of the existing and extending along the Glan y Wern Canal “A picnic area with tables/seating service roads at a higher level may have some towpath . and a children’s play project should “More detailed urban design study future role to play . be established as a gateway at the of these settlements is warranted.” Ashlands entrance.”

As well as the additional ‘market’ that this This would help to develop wider interest in creates for local amenities and the increased the canal basin project and begin to make the density of people that will access natural initiative sustainable through enhanced activity resources in these areas as a result, the value at its western end . It would also assist in released from selected development in these making the Ashlands site itself that much more areas can, with imagination, be applied in connected to the local community . Community whole or in part to the support of those natural events and activities can be focused in and assets . around this site to further encourage activity and consolidate this as a community resource and an emerging community to the eastern “Some modest residential edge – ‘Crymlyn’ . infill development should be encouraged.” Development of housing in the Port Tennant fringe area At the rear of the modern Marcroft housing The end of Port Tennant, reaching towards development some modest residential infill the hillside and including the newer estate at development should be encouraged to look

Crymlyn Basin walk 15 out on to the newly cleared basin and canal Tennant canal before it disappears beneath can slow a few hundred metres earlier than beyond, constructed along the current Tir John Fabian Way through a culvert . There is value it would have . These concessions are minor “The park and ride should be access road and back to the existing estate, to be created here – residential property with given the benefits that can accrue from getting perhaps also opening up some of the currently water frontage and acres of green space on connectivity right here . moved to the more problematic fenced connections . the doorstep . development sites adjacent to the Water Works, releasing the existing Secondly, two blocks to the south of Marcroft To the south of the western block are the hints can be developed for residential use . Both are of a now rather obsolescent small sub-centre park and ride site for residential wooded and it will involve the loss of some next to the footbridge crossing to SA1 . That too development.” urban greenery – NRW and partners will need warrants inclusion in a study for this area, to to make value judgements about this – but include any emerging residential areas south of developing further density in that area, bringing Fabian Way . With further density, a sub-centre Moving the park and ride also permits residential life and active frontage overlooking may once again be viable here or nearby . expansion of capacity with the benefit of a road the basin, will further consolidate Ashlands and junction that is currently being upgraded to the Crymlyn Basin, which form the gateway to The crossing over Fabian Way at the end of Nearly obsolete subcentre on Fabian Way cater for Swansea University’s second campus the bog beyond for those communities . Wern Terrace, currently extremely weak and anyway . inhospitable, requires attention to encourage A third development opportunity exists at the north-south linkages of people . current park and ride site, situated on the north Alongside the existing allocated site to the west “Two blocks to the south of Marcroft of Fabian Way. Land to the west of the park of the current park and ride site, this forms a can be developed for residential and ride is already identified in the Fabian Way large area, the development of which could “The crossing over Fabian Way at use.” Corridor Masterplan . The existing Park and significantly contribute to both the settlements the end of Wern Terrace requires Ride site should be added to that as potential to the north, feeding local amenities – shops, development land . post office, pub as they emerge in a new sub- For the westerly block, there are two high walls attention to encourage north-south centre – as well as increasing the numbers that once supported the higher-level railway line linkages.” In the Fabian Way masterplan, housing is of people living adjacent to and able to that ran here .There is some heritage argument currently allocated adjacent to the Water support and nourish the natural assets of for their retention, but in order to open up and Treatment works . That is a challenging sell, the Crymlyn Basin and the bog beyond as create a more permeable space here and allow Pedestrian crossings are always better at grade given the associated smells there . So, a ‘land well as northwards up on to Kilvey Hill. There for further development, those walls should be rather than over footbridges – that is difficult swap’ should be considered – the park and are challenges to connect to the rear of the removed . Perimeter blocks should be created territory with the importance of the road and ride should be moved to the more problematic site with quite a significant change in level with frontages facing outwards from each side traffic flow seen as paramount in current city development sites adjacent to the Water between it and the existing community but it of the blocks, protecting gardens behind – for thinking . The traffic can slow for key crossing Works, releasing the existing park and ride site is achievable . Accompanying this, the existing the eastern of the two blocks, frontage on the points – there are lights coming up there for for residential development . Fabian Way ‘McDonalds’ junction should be southern side will face the end of the former traffic heading into the city anyway; the traffic enhanced as a pedestrian and cycle crossing

16 Indicative sites with future housing development potential

17 point – that can become a key north-south new junction that is being developed currently of this study, this is about placing markers railway underpass beneath Fabian Way should junction, encouraging people in the newly from Fabian Way for the Swansea University and creating strategy for the long term – be developed as a pedestrian and modest road created residential areas south of Fabian second campus and up through Elba Crescent/ some elements can be enacted immediately, link – there is ample room to do so . Way through to the north, further supporting Baldwin’s Crescent, as well as through the for others it is a case of ensuring there is a any emerging sub-centres in the north, and railway underpass beneath Fabian Way (see strategy in place ready for when circumstances connecting to the natural assets beyond . below) . There are other connections on to inevitably change as the Fabian Way corridor Fabian Way at ground level already – these are develops . precious and currently road developments pay “The existing Fabian Way scant attention to the potential for crossings . Link beneath Fabian Way ‘McDonalds’ junction should be The forested area immediately to the east The development of the new university enhanced as a pedestrian and cycle of Ashlands playing fields should also be campuses and SA1 area is progressing with crossing point.” considered for housing development . Again every indication that the areas to the south of this requires a value judgement in terms of Fabian Way will develop sooner rather than retention of greenery versus the creation of later, and that they will do so with a reasonable The Fabian Way underpass Further housing developments in the south greater density to consolidate and protect degree of residential accommodation . the larger natural assets of the bog to the Additionally, the potential development of the The current opportunities for exploitation for To bring further residential density and more north . Development here will begin to link the Tidal Lagoon will see the key access route links across Fabian Way are too limited – frontage and activity overlooking and valuing communities to the north of Fabian Way with come along Langdon Road and turn south two have been identified in this section . The these natural assets, land should be identified the potential for further development that will around the ABP ports to meet the Lagoon’s underpass connection is relatively easy to for housing development near to the rail yards likely take place in the longer term along the western landfall . That turn – the key access establish as it uses an existing tunnel . But between Fabian Way and the southern edge of stretch of land opposite the new Swansea point – will be a relatively short distance to the other opportunities need to be explored for the bog, to the east of Ashlands . University campus and Elba Crescent/Baldwins south of the bog . crossing Fabian Way – multiple crossing Crescent, where the studios and other ex- points at human scale are needed, friendly to manufacturing facilities are currently located . pedestrians and cyclists, and several should be “Land should be identified for There is a small isolated residential community “The existing railway underpass provided along its length . housing development near to the there now and linking these areas thematically, beneath Fabian Way should be east-west as well as ensuring they are linked rail yards between Fabian Way and north-south across the road, will greatly developed as a pedestrian and “Other opportunities need to be the southern edge of the bog.” improve their condition . modest road link.” explored for crossing Fabian Way –

There are railway lines here, but these are in multiple crossing points at human That development could be serviced both from decline and the land will likely become surplus A north-south linkage is needed to facilitate scale are needed.” the east with the new developments around the to requirements in the future . As with much access between these areas and the existing

18 The prevailing thinking remains heavily in served by a bus system (at least) should be will feed all the way to the Crymlyn Campus and Given the likely continued decline of current favour of designing exclusively for motor community-oriented and, presently, that points beyond, as similar consideration is applicable heavy freight rail needs and the already vehicle speed and flow rates, but in the towards a line along Langdon Road, servicing from Neath, Briton Ferry and . dwindling commercial docks function, coupled longer run, the key issue will be the social both the University of Wales Trinity Saint David with (for the most part) ample land availability integration of homes, business, light industry, as well as the Swansea University second along the Fabian Way corridor, more ambitious the university campuses, and perhaps also the campus, as well as the emerging business and “Priority has to be given to cycle linkages should be considered, potentially a Lagoon. The road system should be catering residential in between . routes through SA1 from the Sail light rail connection to link the city core with for crossovers now and there is currently scant Neath and/or Port Talbot Parkway and from evidence, along the full length of Fabian Way, and Trafalgar Bridges as well as there linking with the existing rail networks . that this is the case . Bringing Crymlyn Bog, “A public transport line from from the Tawe bridges with a set of However, a metro bus (upgraded to a more the hill and the canals into touching distance Mumbles to the new Swansea simple planning criteria.” eco-sustainable format in future to reduce of new developments on the bayside will pollution and, in the long term costs) can generate social and economic paybacks that University Crymlyn campus and service this equally well and there are already warrant these initiatives . onwards to Neath, should form the On the north side of Fabian Way, current access considerations on the Neath Port Talbot side strategic core of public transport and routing for cycling and the Wales Coastal of the country boundary for linkages to better Fabian Way corridor transport links Path will certainly be maintained and improved link bus services with Port Talbot Parkway planning for the city and the bay.” although that too will be under pressure from station . Whilst these routes must ensure Transport links along the Fabian Way east- potential residential developments on adjoining that pedestrian and cycle linkages are also west routes are currently under review In due course, as the population of St Thomas land as the second Swansea University campus considered within them, a focus on facilitating although, as has often been the case, they are and Port Tennant becomes more student- settles in and (in the near future) a second improved public transport linkages is to be a poor relation to the extensive motor vehicle oriented, there will be a need to consider major University of Wales Trinity Saint David welcomed and actively encouraged . provision nearing completion, ostensibly for the a route along Delhi Street and Wern Fawr, development takes root to the south west . new Swansea University campus . crossing to the Swansea University second Re-opening the Tennant Canal campus . This will also be of considerable Provisions to protect and support these Along with a north-south (Morriston to the benefit to these traditional communities and routes and the adjoining natural environment At a relatively modest cost (previously costed Singleton Park University campus/Singleton their existing resource centres, not to mention should be laid down now with three simple by NRW) the canal stretch between the canal Hospital) line, a public transport line from access to the natural environment currently criteria: frontages overlooking public spaces basin in the west and the junction with the Glan Mumbles to the new Swansea University under consideration . and natural heritage; a density that facilitates y Wern Canal should be cleared of vegetation Crymlyn campus and onwards to Neath, should (makes viable) and integrates much needed and made navigable once again . form the strategic core of public transport Secondly, priority has to be given to cycle social and commercial resources for the planning for the city and the bay, not only for routes through SA1 from the Sail and Trafalgar existing as well as the new communities; Further specialised study is required to motor vehicles as it currently is . Bridges as well as from the Tawe bridges with and transportation provision and connectivity determine the effect (if any) on the watercourse a set of simple planning criteria . Routes both to minimise the necessity for private motor to the east of the existing canal barrier if it The strategic public transport route to be sides of the Prince’s Dock are fundamental and vehicle use . were to be removed – the water course to the

19 east is used to provide clean water to industry These are all assets of which the City Region and prices, concluded that the creation of a Weatheralls, conducted a study of the uplift and the Tennant family derives an income can be justifiably proud . They need some link was viable . It considered two options – in value provided by water frontage in a from that supply, so before the opening of the tender loving care and to be sensitively and a link with the Prince of Wales Dock and a development in Milton Keynes . A new green full waterway can be considered, the effects sustainably exploited . Previous studies on link with the Kings Dock . In both cases it is field development there had a requirement for of doing so need to be better understood . the reopening of the canal (see next section) recommended that the link is created via balancing ponds for surface water drainage . However, the aspiration should be to find a way and the NRW officer with responsibility for the a new spur under the existing Fabian Way The local authority was willing to increase the to ensure that the Tennant Canal is reopened bog concur with such an approach, subject railway bridge, rather than attempting to take density of the development in the blocks with as a navigable waterway at least from Crymlyn to sensitivity to the fragile ecosystem . Further the original line extending from the western a water frontage and LSH demonstrated that Basin to Neath and beyond – much of that specialised impact study may be required to end of the canal basin where the water from water frontage added 20% to the value on route to the east is navigable already . fully understand the implications and also to the canal currently continues under Fabian average in that location (comparison of sale give confidence to the Tennant family that the Way onwards to the docks through a culvert . prices for similar properties with and without current barrier at the junction with the Glan y water frontage confirmed the initial ‘academic’ “The canal stretch between the Wern Canal can be removed and under what There is room to do so beneath Fabian Way expectations) . canal basin in the west and the circumstances . and this is identified in the Local Authority’s junction with the Glan y Wern Canal Fabian Way Corridor Masterplan, where there The reinstatement of that section of canal could Reconnecting the canal with the docks and is a preserved line for the reconnection of the be justified using a model based on recouping should be cleared of vegetation and the Tawe canal to the Prince of Wales Dock . a proportion of costs through uplift in land made navigable once again.” value as a result of newly created waterway . At There should be a long-term aspiration to link The cost of connecting the canal through a new present there is a surplus of land overlooking the city’s waterways by joining the Tennant channel of that length is likely to be significant water frontage along the river, around the It is unlikely that the canal can support regular Canal through to the Kings Dock . (estimated in the 1994 study at £1 .51m) and Prince of Wales Dock and in the longer term motorised traffic – the banks are mud and not may not be feasible in the short to medium potentially around the King and Queens Docks stone and the wash from regular motorised term, but the maintenance of a preserved (currently owned and operated by Associated traffic will raise maintenance costs and create “Link the city’s waterways by joining line is advisable. However, a secondary route British Ports) . Even taking into account future ecological challenges . But low volume and low the Tennant Canal through to the should be considered and preserved as a more uplift in land value through the creation of power/unpowered traffic has plenty of scope to Kings Dock.” cost effective option – a far shorter connecting further water frontage for development, the enliven the waterway . Coupled with heightened route would be to take the canal through the costs in either scenario are not insubstantial . activity at the Crymlyn Basin end, plus the underpass and connect to the Kings Dock existing Wales Coastal Path, these assets A study was undertaken by Ian Walker and as recommended by the Ian Walker and When considering this link for the purposes begin to reinforce one another and generate Associates in 1994 to establish the key issues Associates report in 1994 (estimated costs in of connecting the canal to the docks, the a critical mass of activity that will generate of (re)creating a link between the docks in the 1994 study for this route was £1 .15m) . function of the underpass for ground level greater interest and footfall . That all feeds and the SA1 area and the Tennant Canal north of pedestrian and vehicular access to service improves connectivity not just in the physical Fabian Way . The study, though dated and in The Canal and Rivers Trust, with input future development north of the road needs to sense but thematically also . need of revisiting to reflect current conditions from Lambert Smith Hampton (LSH) and be retained .

20 1 . the 1994 report indicates that a lock system If this connection (or indeed the longer in the 2003 British Waterways Waterspace “The function of the underpass will be required in order to resolve differences connection on the current Fabian Way Corridor Strategy for the Prince of Wales Dock prepared in water level between the canal and the docks Masterplan) were to be achieved, then a further for the Welsh Development Agency . for ground level pedestrian and and so entry of canal craft into the docks can connection should be included at the western vehicular access to service future be strictly controlled by ABP at that point; end of the Prince of Wales Dock to connect to The creation of a waterway in the manner development north of the road the Tawe . described here, running through the docks and 2 . ABP can restrict access to licensed users, with connecting with the river, creates a much larger needs to be retained.” part of the criteria for licensing the ability to system that will require management and evidence a proper understanding of how to “A further connection should be resource . The costs are not just capital costs That underpass may have to serve multiple navigate in the docks; included at the western end of the of reinstatement, but also the maintenance functions – that can be achieved, but needs Prince of Wales Dock to connect to costs of ongoing care and repair as well as a careful planning . 3 . ABP can similarly make relevant insurances need to manage the route for the purposes of and indemnities, and agreement to be placed the Tawe.” navigation . ABP operate the dock area and there are under the jurisdiction of the ABP Harbour security concerns in relation to its continued Master a requirement of any licensing; There are additional benefits to weigh against use as a commercial port. However, it is There are already options considered for: a this from increased land values from the likely that the commercial dock functions 4 . ABP can determine the times during which route through the dry dock at the University creation of further waterfront development will contract over time . The connecting route passage is permitted to suit operational needs; of Wales Trinity Saint David peninsula site in sites and potential for berthing in a marina, and through the Kings Dock (proposed in the 1994 the south west corner of the SA1 area; and/or the 2002 Atkins Study and the 2003 British report) could conceivably be entirely water- 5 . volume of usage for linking between the a shorter route that extends from the western Waterways Waterspace Strategy go into some based for barges/kayaks etc . to connect the river and the canal is likely to be low and edge of the south-west corner of the Prince of detail of the options, the costs and potential two canals – pedestrian routes alongside the most usage is likely to be clear of normal Wales Dock to meet the Tawe with the added sources of funding . canal can either be fenced or diverted around dock operations, and no mooring is proposed advantage that on connecting with the Tawe the perimeter of the secured docks area if that related to the creation of this link, therefore at that point there is no need for craft to then The Atkins Study concludes that this larger is necessary for security considerations in the any craft that use the dock are likely to be go back up through lock gates – the former initiative is feasible and recommends that short term . within it for a very short period; dry dock route would take boats out below the it should be pursued, providing cost benefit barrage . arguments and this is reflected in the This offers a more viable solution to connecting 6 . ABP could require a piloting service, provided subsequent British Waterways Waterspace the waterways than the long channel currently by them for any craft unfamiliar with the Dock, These options were costed in a broader study Strategy (which is focused on the Prince of proposed .The Ian Walker and Associates report for which a charge can be levied; and conducted by Atkins in 2002, which explored Wales Dock rather than the wider network) . (1994 – Appendix F, section 4 .0) suggests that the viability of connecting the Neath, Tennant However, the costs identified by Atkins are ABP concerns about such a link are misplaced 7 . there is a benefit to ABP from the provision and Swansea Canals, via the docks and Tawe significant (around £50m at that time for for the following reasons: of gravity fed fresh water supply (currently to create up to 32 miles of navigable inland their recommended scheme, which was also constrained), reducing ABP pumping costs . waterway . These connections also feature of course a very different pre-austerity public

21 funding environment) . Nevertheless, there are least because the previous report was written far as Neath (the Atkins Study goes further, they emerge – connectivity between new and merits in revisiting the proposals to determine at a time when the BP refinery, a major user of considering linking the Swansea Canal and existing built areas and to the local ecosystem whether a scaled down version is feasible . water from the canal, was still in operation at Fendrod also) . should be a key requirement of masterplans The Canals Trust has extensive experience in Llandarcy). for new developments and a key criterion for this area and should be encouraged to take a The creation of a lengthy stretch of inland planners to consider . lead in that process (suitably supported with The connection of the canal to the river waterway connecting the docks, river and financial input and partnership support by the through the docks is a longer-term aspiration canals is a worthy aspiration, and is worth two local authorities and also NRW) . with relatively significant (though perhaps not revisiting to assess viability .Such an investment “Connectivity between new and prohibitive judging by the 1994 and 2002 would give resonance to the city’s industrial existing built areas and to the Additionally, whilst the 1994 study identified studies) costs attached . If achieved alongside past, bringing new connectivity and life through various potential implications for the bog the opening of the Tennant Canal to Neath, it invigorated waterways both for cultural/leisure local ecosystem should be a key from reinstating the canal and concluded that could offer a navigable waterway at least from use as well as more practical connectivity requirement of masterplans for new it would be a positive initiative, that element the northern stretches of the Tawe towards between different parts of the city . It has scope developments and a key criterion for should be revisited with an updated study (not Clydach and Pontardawe, extending east as to significantly add to the sense of place and the city’s water-based identity. However, this is planners to consider.” extremely ambitious and in terms of securing access to the natural assets in the study area There is also a need to ensure that existing and achieving the desired outcomes, it is not communities retain character and the potential as high a priority as other initiatives, and NRW to access the natural resources that presently may wish to relegate this to a ‘desirable’ rather are for their almost exclusive use . than ‘essential’ list . To the east, Llandarcy Village is a little distance Access links in the north from the bog, but there is clear potential for linking from the end of that settlement through To the north of Crymlyn Bog creeping the trees to the edge of the bog . Boardwalks urbanisation is still some distance from the spanning the bog may be some distance in perimeter of the boglands below, with the the future, but NRW should plan for those immediate surroundings still predominantly connections regardless with entry points and rural in character . This is changing, not least walks to the east . The precise location of with the development of Coed Darcy to the those walks can be dictated by topography east .The task in the short term is to ensure that and pragmatism of landownership at the new development is planned and managed in bog edges, provided that connections are as advance, with a view to enabling connectivity straight as they can be through lines of least and sustainability of these communities as resistance – these are the ‘desire lines’ that

Canal route to Kings Dock 22 Key access points surrounding the bog

23 people would naturally take all other things However, the key to enhancing physical through the boglands, the greater the likelihood being equal . Those lines can be nurtured connectivity to the bog in the short term lies that local people will cherish and nurture around the bog and occur again from: Skewen; to the south with the initiatives mentioned the bog as a resource . It may be that these down the hill from Pentrechwyth, Bonymaen, previously . routes become formalised as part of local and Hengoed, Ty Draw, Pentre Dwr and Winch cycle networks, extending from Coed Darcy Wen; emergent ‘Crymlyn’ in the south; Port Connecting through the boglands in the east through (or skirting) the bog and Tennant; Jersey Marine; the aforementioned connecting to the communities to the north of Llandarcy and of course Coed Darcy as it An existing, well thought through report Kilvey Hill and down to the Lower Tawe and eventually develops right down to the edges of (Crymlyn Bog CAN Project) considers the Lower Swansea Valley. the bog . connections within the bog itself using boardwalks and taking into account the The way we move around our cities is changing sensitivities of encouraging and facilitating and will change further and we should take “Access points around the access through the SSSI . There is no need to every opportunity to ensure that connectivity is bog should be noted and their review the conclusions of that report, which thought of in pedestrian and cycle terms (as are all still relevant . well as water borne modes where possible and potential for the future recognised appropriate) and move away from a focus on for planning purposes for those The recommendations of the CAN report cars . communities to the north.” should be retained with the addition of one or more cycle-friendly links through the bog This recommendation is made with the (including an east-west link from Coed Darcy) understanding and significant caveat that the These potential access points around the bog using the old dram ways and/or boardwalks or bog is a sensitive ecosystem and any such should be noted and their potential for the future a combination of the two . provisions that involve routes through the bog recognised for planning purposes for those must first and foremost ensure that the SSSI communities to the north . Additionally, where is protected . they exist, historic paths from communities “The recommendations of the CAN down the hillsides towards the bog should be report should be retained with the formalised as rights of way to preserve routes . addition of one or more cycle- friendly links through the bog.” “Historic paths from communities down the hillsides towards the bog Whilst care will need to be taken not to make the bog too much of a ‘through route’, the should be formalised as rights of more that cyclists can be given opportunities way.” and encouraged to utilise these connections

24 25 The Lower TawE

THREE

26 The river is a great under-achiever for the The major development activities along the Additionally, Network Rail has undertaken a part as the justification for the new road . The city, indeed along with the other elements river’s west bank in recent years have seen relatively large engineering project to extend site is located at the top of the wider section of this study plus the Bay beyond, these the contraction of the light industry land use the trackway sidings, resulting in the loss of of west side river bank before it narrows and are the city’s principal assets. Of the areas function, releasing land . That has resulted the Maliphant Street road connection . That link steepens prior to reaching the Copperopolis covered by this study, the river offers the in some relatively weak (in urban design is still accessible to pedestrians across a new site further north . greatest potential for mixing new urban terms) housing developments that have not switchback bridge, though it is far from ideal . development and a natural asset with the recognised the qualities of the natural assets There, just before the river passes under beating heart of the world’s first globally on their doorstep . The Bellway development to Prospective developments include the Morfa the next major road bridge, there is a hint at integrated industrial city. the immediate north of the Tawe road bridges Distributor Road (a follow-on from the formerly the potential for the Tawe . The initiative by on the west bank is extremely weak in terms proposed Hafod Bypass but essentially the Swansea University at Copperopolis with early The last remaining vestiges of that are located of its relationship to the river, with seemingly same scheme in terms of its likely effects) stage works reclaiming, safeguarding and at Copperopolis and White Rock and are worthy no thought given to either overlooking and/or and a prospective but as yet unrealised interpreting the key industrial remnants of the of world heritage status, which has been connecting physically with the riverside . development by Persimmon, used in no small city’s once booming and world leading copper recognised by Swansea University . Early efforts trade is an excellent project, and lays the to reclaim and value the site have demonstrated Bellway housing development foundations for connecting the city to its river . the riches that can be harnessed there, but these are the earliest phases of a much larger, On the West Bank, the river promenade is longer-term initiative to reclaim and celebrate missing in key places, and in others has been this unique industrial offer . That, alongside a fenced off and made inaccessible . The direct wonderful, and currently largely unrealised, visual and physical connections leading to riverside environment with Kilvey Hill beyond, the river from the city, from High Street, from provides the ingredients for a rich package for Neath Road, Maliphant Street, from Morfa development, conservation and celebration . Road, from Landore, are missing. The potential for a key connection towards Copperopolis and the Liberty Stadium is unrealised.

Key issues On the lower east side of the river, the major task is to reconnect communities with their Cities across Europe have pride in, and value city centre . Industry, the river, roads and their rivers as key assets . Until relatively traffic have isolated St Thomas especially, recently, the potential for the river’s west undermining its erstwhile commercial and bank for development (north of the Tawe social vitality . Reopening the direct city road bridges) was recognised but has been connections from Kingsway/Welcome Lane largely aspirational, with no robust strategy for to Delhi Street, St Thomas, Kilvey and the bog development . will revive the lifeblood of St Thomas and bring

27 these wonderful natural resources closer to Of most importance in Parc Tawe is to ensure route (along which design must be mindful of car . Connectivity to the east riverside, not to the life of the city . Even more, it will boost the that any developments on or near to the how pedestrians and cyclists can easily cross mention the east side communities and the city centre and emphasise the potential of the waterfront have active frontage facing the river . from one end to the other) that will help to make hill beyond, must come from the west as well beautiful river Tawe . Straight lines of east-west communication to the Parc Tawe site, as well as considerably as the south and east . So, getting that river the riverside, faced by active frontages, are strengthening east-west communications road bridge crossing right for pedestrians and The east river bank is already parkland but also essential – every effort must be made to within the city . cyclists is essential . That applies not just to the merits tender loving care, with: new walks; preserve and develop these crucial links . length of carriageway along the road bridge better links to east side communities and cycle The bridge itself will need attention to enhance itself, but also crossing points at either end, routes; perhaps play at the south end; featured it as a pedestrian environment – the current which should fit the key desire lines – straight woodland further up; water projects from the “Straight lines of east-west pavement there is narrow and does not lines of pedestrian/cycle communication hillside, probably running into the old high communication to the riverside, encourage shared use by pedestrians and along the riverbanks . A dramatically improved canal and on to the river; water play at a sunny cyclists, nor does the road system there pedestrian and cycle environment using the spot; a pontoon for the community boat . faced by active frontages, are favour cyclists . It actively discourages east existing northern road bridge across the Tawe essential.” west connectivity by anything other than must be the aspiration .

Initiatives Particularly, the design proposals for the current city centre strategy propose the creation of Improved east-west linkages a more direct route, but this remains slightly offset – insofar as it is possible a straight line The current City Centre Framework discusses route should connect Delhi Street in St Thomas the redevelopment of Parc Tawe, which should with the Kingsway/Welcome Lane with active certainly be considered for high density frontage all along its length . residential accommodation – integrated town (not an inwards looking housing estate development) with high standards of urban “A straight line route should connect design . Delhi Street in St Thomas with the Kingsway/Welcome Lane with active “Any developments that are on frontage all along its length.” or near to the waterfront must

have active frontage facing the When the Parc Tawe site is redeveloped that will waterfront.” create a strong backbone and communications

East-west line connection between Kingsway and Delhi Street 28 feature and be supported by the University Whilst flooding from run-off is not a major “A dramatically improved pedestrian of Wales Trinity Saint David development at “The riverside wall and walkway concern (due in large part to NRW initiatives the peninsula site at the eastern end of the much further up the catchment), with tidal and cycle environment using the Trafalgar Bridge . immediately to the south of surges representing the major flood risk in existing northern road bridge across the Trafalgar Bridge should be the lower Tawe, there is nevertheless scope to the Tawe must be the aspiration.” The Wales Coastal Path route through SA1 reinstated to create an unbroken further reduce water run-off as well as creating would benefit from some improved marking features in an eco-park here . and highlights, not least as a further means riverside walk.” The current city centre strategic framework of signalling that further along it skirts more review led by DTZ shows the creation of an inlet wonderful natural assets with Crymlyn Bog as “The city should formalise a to the north of Parc Tawe – creation of more well as the canal further along, before returning East River Eco-park riverside ‘Eco-Park’ with a focus on waterways for frontage can have benefits for closer to the coast in the east . the increase to property values, although there On the eastern bank, a combination of its industrial heritage.” is ample development frontage on watersides steep terrain, and narrow flat areas plus in SA1 and along the river already to meet any “The Wales Coastal Path route precious remnants of industrial history make Industrial heritage through the site, culminating demand in the short to medium term . Whilst through SA1 would benefit from development difficult and undesirable . The in the White Rock site, needs care and we do not take a strong view on the creation green character of the area is already a attention . Efforts have been made to safeguard of that inlet, what is important is to ensure some improved marking and favoured route for many walkers and cyclists and interpret the site, including by community that the riverside walks are maintained, and to highlights.” but it is in need of attention to realise the groups . There is a danger that the (warranted) consider a footbridge to maintain the existing potential of this urban parkland .Whilst the area focus on the Copperopolis site on the west straight line route to encourage walking and has been effectively designated as riverside bank could overshadow the less physically cycling directly up the riverside . To the south of the Trafalgar Bridge the park for at least 25 years (the 1990 ‘Eastside prominent but no less important remnants riverside wall and walkway are crumbling Initiative’ document refers to such proposals of industrial history on the east bank – the Wales Coastal Path and closed to public access . The breakwater as being ‘longstanding’), it is not formalised or Swansea Vale Railway bridge and remnants of beyond is accessible from the beach and there managed to any significant degree or valued/ the White Rock Copperworks, the Smith’s Canal At the Trafalgar Bridge the Wales Coastal Path is an adjacent pathway a short distance away recognised sufficiently as parkland . Basin and tunnel, an inclined plane railway, and extends to the east through SA1 to meet with that pedestrians can use to negotiate between a preserved riverside Barge Dock and Quay are the southern edge of Crymlyn Bog . Unlike the open riverside path to the north and the The city should formalise a riverside ‘Eco- all to be found on the eastern bank . the sea front path around , that breakwater, but it requires a small detour . Park’ with a focus on its industrial heritage easterly stretch loses its identity by moving Whilst not the highest priority project in this – views should be opened up, access routes Inspiration and lessons should be drawn from away from the water’s edge in order to go list of initiatives, the riverside wall and walkway enhanced, and small areas can be created to exemplary recent work on former industrial north around the ABP facilities of Swansea immediately to the south of the Trafalgar Bridge allow for occasional flooding from run-off of river banks in New York and Paris as well as Docks . So, its status as the Coastal Path could should be reinstated to create an unbroken the adjacent Kilvey Hill. a wonderful history of European urban rivers . be reinforced there and could thematically riverside walk .

29 an eastern riverside walk to complement the the street (to be ‘softened’ for a pedestrian route one on the west bank, albeit with a ‘softer’ feel, “The existing east side crossing into town) and the north facing façade towards with more rustic paths along the river’s edge . an East River Park, where site width becomes points will need to be moved to increasingly problematic for development . There are no major physical barriers to creating reflect desire lines.” an extended riverside path extending from the The St Thomas Station site should be conceived St Thomas station site all the way to White as a welcome to the city, to the park, to our Rock to join existing riverside walks to the The pedestrian and cycle environment at the river and industrial history, for information, for north . The East River Park can be a relatively eastern end of the southerly Tawe road bridge parking and a gateway to the park and the city, ‘quick win’ initiative and there is a strong needs urgent attention . When the traffic lights including a pontoon for river boat access on New York Riverside Park argument for NRW playing a role in developing are on stop, pedestrians and cyclists must be the east side . and managing the park . able to cross at points that reflect desire lines, The park should be given a name, perhaps particularly the north-south desire line along At this point the thematic link can be made with East River Park – it needs formalisation and The major obstacle to an unbroken east side the rivers edge . The existing east side crossing the line extending along Morris Lane up to the to be cherished as a resource, rather than riverside walk from the sea is the southerly points need to move to reflect desire lines . top of Kilvey Hill (explored further in the next being perceived as ‘left over’ land . That need road bridge that connects Fabian Way and St section) – that link should include a pedestrian not mean significant landscaping or onerous Thomas to Oystermouth Road/New Cut Road . St Thomas Station site desire line crossing to encourage that . management – areas can (and should) be Here, the pedestrian and cycling environment left wild as habitat . What is proposed here is exceptionally poor with an overwhelming There is an open expanse of identified is a formalisation and some management dominance of car-focused thinking . development land on the eastern bank, “The St Thomas Station site should whilst retaining its character . Maintaining and immediately to the north of the second road be conceived as a welcome to the cherishing go hand in hand with other initiatives As well as the creation of an unbroken riverside bridge, on the riverside . An eco-housing (including on the west bank) to enhance footfall walk, further prominence is given to this scheme was proposed under the Warm Wales city, to the park, to our river and and cycle traffic . location with the development of the University initiative, which has since stalled .Whilst we are industrial history, for information, for of Wales Trinity Saint David development to the supportive of the Warm Wales initiative, there parking and a gateway to the park south – the north-south linkage along Kings are numerous appropriate waterside sites “The eco-park should also aim Road for that development is important and so available, and indeed other locations (e .g . the and the city, including a pontoon for for an eastern riverside walk to the pedestrian (and cycle) environment here Vetch site in Sandfields) that would be suitable river boat access on the east side.” warrants urgent attention . There are crossing from several viewpoints for such an initiative . complement the one on the west points at the junction but they pay no attention bank.” to the desire lines of pedestrians or the needs In this report, we are generally cautious about River bank walk – west of cyclists and that must be rectified if the block development on this site, firstly because As well as routes through the trees from the north-south linkage here is to function . it will be difficult to form an ‘all sided’ frontage On the western bank the priority is the riverside road edge, the eco-park should also aim for that benefits all aspects – the river, St Thomas, path . It is largely intact from the sea to the

30 The elevated section of former trackway

Liberty Stadium and the aspiration should be to This sale or the development brief should be Access routes to the river should be opened create an unbroken riverside walk on the west firm about the requirement for residential through the Bellway and surrounding bank, and from the stadium back to the Kings frontage facing on to a riverside promenade . development – making it more permeable Dock and the Trafalgar Bridge, at the key site to pedestrians and cyclists . As Parc Tawe is of the University of Wales Trinity Saint David In the case of Swansea Industrial Components, redeveloped, the existing green space to the redevelopment plans . it appears that there is a stretch of walkway that southern edge of the Bellway development is fenced off (we were unable to gain access to lends itself to some formalisation as a riverside this short stretch but from the existing walkway access . “Create an unbroken riverside walk on either side of the fenced area it appeared on the west bank.” intact, at least immediately on the other side All future development contracts must ensure of the fence at both ends) . This may simply be direct visual and physical connections to the an accessibility issue – a negotiation with the river . At two points new path will/may need to be landowner to step their fencing back to allow created, but they are relatively modest in length: access to the walkway . Alternatively, stepping Further discussion on this is provided in the out around the site using pontoons will be following sections . • the Pipehouse Wharf site is owned by the required to extend the walkway around . The City and County of Swansea Council and is former is likely to be less costly . currently in use as a vehicle depot though it “All future development contracts will be sold for redevelopment in the not too Urban design improvements to existing must ensure direct visual and distant future . At this point the higher level site west bank developments physical connections to the river.” slopes steeply down the river bank with no walkway; and The pedestrian and cycling environment in and near to the Bellway and large student The Tawe High Line • at the Swansea Industrial Components site accommodation development on the west side where the pathway exists but site fencing are very weak and do nothing to encourage Drawing inspiration from the larger scale New extends right out to the waterside preventing a east-west linkages between the city and the York namesake, Swansea should establish through route for pedestrians . river . Indeed, the developments pay no real its own ‘High Line’ running from the railway attention to the river at all, actively turning their station to Copperopolis and the Stadium . In the case of Pipehouse Wharf, the backs on it . development brief for the site should require Starting from the railway station forecourt, the building and maintenance of a riverside the High Line would step down, potentially walkway to link the stretch that runs behind the “Access routes to the river should through the former Quakers burial ground Bellway development in the south to the existing be opened through the Bellway and (with some sensitive interpretation there) and riverside walkway north of Pipehouse Wharf . surrounding development.” travel along the disused lower track bed that

31 The Swansea High Line begins at a lower level, adjacent to the train over the Strand, meeting the level of the current station forecourt .That track bed once housed a rail line and running alongside it, terminating turntable for trains and there is scope for some near to the Network Rail parking area not far further interpretation there also . short of the Maliphant Street bridge crossing .

The New York High Line (top and middle) and “Swansea should establish its own green wall landscaping to soften edges (bottom) ‘High Line’ running from the railway station to Copperopolis and the Stadium.”

Further along, a currently open pedestrian tunnel runs beneath the railway line connecting the rear of the Ty Bryn Glas building (the old Land Registry facility) with the Strand. There is a point where the tunnel ceiling opens to the higher level High Line rail track, where steps and a ramp could drop to connect back to High Street . A similar connection can be made at Jockey Street . At Maliphant Street the higher level track comes Additionally, the continuation of the link across closer to ground level. Here is the crossing the edge of the Persimmon development site The disused High Line trackway then bridges point linking Neath Road and Landore via to link with the river must be of high quality . Maliphant Street and the new bridge, returning Design criteria for the Persimmon development Underpass opening on to the High Line pedestrians and cyclists to the same direct line should ensure that a connection to the riverside towards the river, crossing the proposed Morfa is preserved, overlooked by active frontage, so Distributor Road with a considerable degree of that it becomes a (pedestrian) street . safety and priority and extending through the southern end of the Persimmon development Good natural surveillance and a wide, green, site to join the west riverside walk . Given the open feel to that link route are all essential impact of both road and rail in separating if that link is to work . These are modest Swansea people from their river, these few requirements of the developer . connecting routes are precious indeed .

32 Riverside connections A further criteria for the Persimmon and other developments is to require Sustainable Urban “All pedestrian crossing points must Drainage Systems (SUDS) to be incorporated into designs . The major flood risk is from tidal represent current and prospective surge, but the further reduction of ground water desire lines.” run-off into the river is no bad thing and a strong marker for future sustainable development . Shared surfaces should be considered and Morfa Distributor Road future residential development in this area that branches off the new Morfa Road road might The new Morfa Distributor Road is already consider a ‘Home Zone’ approach to ensure approved and due for works imminently . Whilst that vehicle speeds are kept low, in what we have reservations over the justification should be a pedestrian priority area . for the creation of a full length road as far as Landore, the report presumes this road All pedestrian crossing points must represent scheme will happen . current and prospective desire lines and the road should be cyclist friendly recognising the Working on that assumption, the key issue is to potential of the riverside as a key cycling link . ensure that this does not create another barrier Shared surfaces encourage these routes as to east-west connectivity . walks in their own right .

It is essential that the riverside walk on the west Signage along the route should clearly signpost “Design criteria for the Persimmon bank is overlooked and supported by active “The Morfa Distributor Road must the nearby river and, again, links across from development should ensure that frontages for any new developments (business be designed as a pedestrian and the road to the river should be straight lines a connection to the riverside is or residential) . An early target is to ensure – wide and inviting with active frontages, and that the Persimmon development site utilises cycle friendly environment.” doing whatever is possible to allow views of the preserved, overlooked by active perimeter blocks with active riverside frontage . river at those key points . frontage.” It is essential that this is not just viewed as a vehicular access road – the Morfa Distributor “It is essential that the riverside Road must be designed as a pedestrian and “Signage along the route should The mistakes of the southerly Bellway walk on the west bank is overlooked cycle friendly environment, both in terms of clearly signpost the nearby river.” development must not be repeated otherwise the full length of its linear north-south route, it will harm the viability of the western bank and supported by active frontages as well as crossing points east-west across it walkway . for any new developments.” at key locations .

33 The priority routes include: presently along the High Line – much of the There are hints to history at its southern end the tracks – the tunnels are already there and area in the foreground between the High Line near to the railway station – Bargeman’s Row used, increasingly so due to student housing to • at the Strand/Morfa Road Junction; and the river will be redeveloped in the near should be reopened and given back its name, the east and other likely developments . • at Pipehouse Wharf Depot (where the culverted future and so there is scope to build this into and a strategy should be developed to manage Burlais Brook runs under the northern edge of planning criteria . The creation of further link (by design) the route under (or over) the railway Linking these routes to the High Line can raise the current Council Depot – currently marked routes noted above will assist in creating these bridges towards the cycle path . footfall through the underpasses and improve for preservation as a ‘green line’); viewing channels . safety and security . Footfall – surveillance • through the private sector plots north of The Local Authority owned Canoldre site by lots of different people – is the best way Pipehouse Wharf; View east from the High Line towards the river at Jockey Street is currently on the market to make people feel safer in more isolated • at Maliphant Street through the southern end for redevelopment and includes the green environments, but creative interventions are of the Persimmon site; corridor incorporating Bargeman’s Row on its needed to improve visibility and feelings of • at Landore near the social club; and eastern edge, between the site and the Upper safety and security in the railway underpasses . • through Copperopolis to the river. Strand/New Cut Road . This is an important Installation of good creative lighting, curved link between the west side High Line via the mirrors where there are corners, decoration, In each case these should follow the same underpass at Jockey Street to the easterly planting and art works would all help . criteria with active frontage and a wide, green High Line route. Preservation of that route, and open feel to them . At these points there should ensuring that it is overlooked with good quality be ‘at grade’ pedestrian crossings and steps design from any development at Canoldre is an “Creative interventions are needed up to the High Line. This can be phased as important early outcome to achieve following to improve visibility and feelings of development progresses along this route . the submission of this report as sale of that site looks to be imminent . safety and security in the railway The priority is to (re)connect the people of Hafod West side High Line underpasses.” and Landore with Copperopolis, the emerging An underpass (currently open to pedestrians) riverside communities, and the riverside . Every The High Line can be mirrored on the western runs from Jockey Street on the west side of Existing connections to the Strand need to possible opportunity should be taken to ensure side of the tracks through augmentation of the railway lines and meets the Strand/Upper be improved – further up the Strand, where it that priority in what we recognise is a difficult the route currently taken by the buses over Strand beneath the railway and offers a second begins to rise to meet Llangyfelach Road, the environment with the railway lines – the road the bridge next to the former Canoldre Centre link option beneath the railway along with the cycle and pedestrian path that drops down should not compound those difficulties . at Bethesda Street, which runs between the underpass a little further south . from the higher level High Street needs to railway line and the Hafod/Landore. be strengthened and encouraged with better Along the route of the High Line views of the Pedestrian subways are generally not good signage of through routes to the river under the river are important and riverside development means of connecting places due to safety and bridges . The informal link through to the Upper planning should seek to ensure that key “Bargeman’s Row should be security issues (both real and perceived) but Strand in Hafod also needs to be formalised views are maintained to signal that there reopened and given back its name.” in this case they represent the most realistic and improved . is a river there . It is difficult to see the river option for linking the east and west sides of

34 The West Side High Line and key connections opened up to encourage pedestrian and cycle “Existing connections to the Strand linkage through to the west side High Line walk . need to be improved.”

The Strand/New Cut Road at this point is “The walls of the cul de sacs in conceived wholly for motor vehicles with Hafod should be opened up to pedestrian and cycle allowances essentially tokenistic – it is another example of a very poor encourage pedestrian and cycle pedestrian and cycle environment that needs linkage through to the west side to be softened . The woodland either side of High Line walk.” the road here is valuable public parkland and green space and needs to be better utilised and valued as a resource, rather than being a At Maliphant Street the route turns beneath ‘left over’ green area . the railway line through the existing road tunnel, now closed to motor vehicles due to Pedestrian refuges are needed on the Strand the creation of the extended railyards on the / New Cut Road and the vehicles will need to eastern side . Although a lost opportunity, the slow to make the pedestrian environment more Maliphant Street route should be formalised conducive to crossing and ultimately accessing for pedestrians and cyclists now – highlight it, through to the river . publicise it as a link through to the riverside .

“Pedestrian refuges are needed on “The Maliphant Street route should the Strand / New Cut Road.” be formalised for pedestrians and cyclists now – highlight it, publicise Extending northwards, at Vernon Street, Villiers it as a link through to the riverside.” Street, Jersey Street and Earl Street cul de sacs terminate in block walls where the rail Immediately to the north of Maliphant Street yards would once have been on the other side . the new housing development of Tawe Avenue There is now a roadway between them and the is cut off from the Maliphant Street link – it railway line, with a pedestrian pathway – the is at a higher level, with fencing to prevent walls of the cul de sacs in Hafod should be access down to the lower level .

35 Kings Cross steps and pontoons (top), Tawe riverside steps, and Swansea Community Boat (bottom)

These objectives, namely to protect and bring by using the stepped access points down from “The routes and connections from into use the building, or at least its facade; to the quay side that still exist in places from the establish good locations for pontoons; and to former industrial era when crossing was only Tawe Avenue down to Maliphant establish a presence for the rowing club and feasible by ferry boats . Street should be formalised along related activities; are excellent. However, whilst desire lines.” this can provide a positive use for that site, it Every effort should be made to establish a will be a significant capital cost to refurbish and series of riverside pontoons for use by rowers, develop that site for this purpose, let alone a and as pick-up and drop-off points for water There are clear signs of people making their challenging initiative to sustain its costs there taxis and also the existing and excellent own routes here and also out to the bus route in the longer term . community boat . Inspiration can be drawn – they are already used as short cuts and the from sites such as Kings Cross . routes and connections from Tawe Avenue To be viable, and to contribute to wider down to Maliphant Street should be formalised regeneration, a feasibility study should along desire lines . explore whether the ‘clubhouse’ element of “Establish a series of riverside the rowing initiative can be integrated with pontoons.” Formalise the provision of river activities projected development on the commercial sites alongside the southern Tawe – adjacent City of Swansea Rowing Club (Wales’ biggest to the Sail Bridge or as part of the University The Clear Streams Tawe Trial project has rowing club), supported by the Welsh Rowing of Wales Trinity Saint David SA1 development, been tasked with identifying suitable access Association and other local rowing clubs, is and establish a real presence down there . points to the river and to associate such assembling initiatives for the river . They are This will bring much needed life to the river at recommendations with data from users/ interested in points of access to the river for relatively modest cost . potential users focusing on barriers to usage rowing, kayaking, and fishing – all excellent and desires for further provisions on the river themes to be encouraged and pursued both at to facilitate more activity . a focal point with a ‘clubhouse’ for the rowers, “The ‘clubhouse’ element of the as well as along the river to encourage various rowing initiative can be integrated When considering access points, care is entry points for different users . required to ensure that pontoon locations and with projected development on the the like are convenient for boating activities Presently, the group is focused on achieving a commercial sites alongside the as well as community access – aligning with presence in the V&S shed – a difficult location southern Tawe.” east-west riverside access routes and current/ to make economically sustainable and with prospective desire lines that link directly to problematic access (even with the various communities . initiatives outlined in this document) . In the longer term, as footfall grows, river ferries might be reinstated to cross the river east-west

36 New pedestrian and cycle bridge between Copperopolis and White Rock Copperopolis that give Copperopolis its status . Currently, the proposals for the site have merit but in Northwards, the High Line will take people our view give too great an emphasis to the up the river and to Copperopolis and the riverside development block there . Liberty Stadium beyond. There is pressure at Copperopolis to realise the value of riverside This is of vital importance to connectivity, in land for development . Whilst the pressures of part because of the physical links from Hafod development in the current economic climate through Copperopolis to the riverside (and as are understood, the prominence of the site for can be seen below beyond onto the east side) Welsh, UK and world history is too significant but also because the strength of this asset, to consider this as a stand-alone development . if harnessed and developed in the right way, focuses the story for this area and delivers The achievement of world heritage status, a a compelling narrative that other initiatives, reasonable aspiration for such unique heritage, including the more ambitious proposals below, warrants a much larger strategic project and can build on . the conservation deficit both in capital and revenue terms of saving and re-establishing New river footbridge at Copperopolis Copperopolis for future generations should be met from other sources rather than the need to The existing road bridge is heavily motor maximise private sector development potential vehicle dominated and whilst it is possible to within the confines of that site . cross as a pedestrian or cyclist, it is a very poor environment for non-motor vehicles . Additionally, the existing road bridge is at a “Any private sector development higher level than the riverside walk, requiring on or adjacent to the site must be a detour to cross . tempered by a focus on retaining and enhancing the unique qualities “A footbridge should be installed to that give Copperopolis its status.” link Copperopolis over the river to the White Rock side.” Any private sector development on or adjacent to the site must be tempered by a focus on Along with the consultants for the Copperopolis retaining and enhancing the unique qualities project, we too are recommending that

37 a footbridge should be installed to link of the city via its waterways, potentially as far downwards towards the docks . From the top: Copperopolis may be the focus but all around Copperopolis over the river to the White Rock as Clydach where canals are being opened up the bay; from Mumbles to Porthcawl; the city are the most beautiful natural resources, many side, to maximise the extraordinary historical – and to link the east and west riverside paths centre; Gower and England across the estuary; of which are yet to be discovered by local tale to be seen and heard there . This location and create a loop . and perhaps the world’s first tidal lagoon in the people . This confluence of a range of riches provides an outstanding option for a City foreground . forms a powerful story for the purposes of Region tourism focus – a hub for walkers, bids for public funding and gives real narrative cyclists and with as much parking as required . “The reinstatement of the Bascule strength to this proposition . It is a potential world heritage site and it is Bridge needs to be pursued.” “Launch a cable car to the top vital to realise the potential of this remarkable of Kilvey Hill to a hilltop viewing opportunity . platform looking out over the Bay.” Cable car The footbridge links to east-west lines to White Rock cable car extend linkages through riverside activities and At Copperopolis and across the river at White directly connect with Hafod/Landore – perhaps Rock the city’s industrial history is focused . following or as close to as possible, the original Here is where there is scope to pull all of the entry point to the Hafod works. Insofar as rich strands of the story together – come up the possible, the extended line from the bridge river paths, through the East River Park, walk should follow a direct linear route . up the High Line from the Railway Station, take a river trip on the community boat, or some Bascule Bridge more energetic rowing, or just a pleasant stroll to the football. Here there is an opportunity to The City and County of Swansea Council unite the river, its industrial history, and the city has assessed the condition of the Bascule itself, with the east side by launching a cable Bridge, which is near to the Liberty Stadium. car to the top of Kilvey Hill to a hilltop viewing Presently, the bridge is unsafe and is a barrier platform looking out over the Bay . to navigation of the Tawe due to its instability . The Council has established a refurbishment A cable car has been proposed in the past, figure and is some way towards achieving the but often from other start points . There are total required for its repair . several advantages of this location over others: it would be a steep and relatively swift rise to The reinstatement of the Bascule Bridge needs the top of the hill; it does not require the route to be pursued to enhance the navigability of to go over any residential areas (or indeed any the river – with that obstacle removed it opens built areas); and it offers views of Swansea’s up far more possibilities for longer term linking river setting, most of the city up the Valley, and

38 39 KILVEY HILL

FOUR

40 Kilvey Hill dominates views eastward in main, utilised both by residents and walkers/ horse and cart use is clearly evident in places . struggle in recent years due in no small part the city, rising above the city centre and riders (bikes and horses) from further afield The principal issue is that these were not all to the cutting off of the grid system of roads in commands breathtaking views of the Bay, – there is also a culture of ‘pony and trap’ designated as rights of way . order to accommodate rapid car transit along the mountains of Neath and Port Talbot here . Recreational activity on the hill takes Fabian Way . to the east, the Gower to the west, and place, with good mountain biking routes that The hill suffers from anti-social usage, northward up the Swansea Valley and over are actively used, and fine walks to be had . including setting of fires (a substantial fire is Wider issues than just spatial form fuel the hills to the Brecon Beacons in the far It is used, but there is significant potential for burning on the hillside and visible from the city problems experienced in these areas and their distance. enhancement and development . centre at the time of writing this report) and persistent presence on the Wales Index of there has been a historic problem of dumping Multiple Deprivation (albeit they fare better than Along with other assets in this report, it is also There is a good network of paths . The and burning of cars there and of fly tipping . some other areas of the city) . For the purposes a great underachiever . Unlike other aspects gateway points and paths themselves need These abuses exacerbate a sense of an area of connectivity, the issue is principally how of this report, there have been a number of formalisation in some areas, upgrade in others, where unsociable behaviour takes place . communities relate to the surrounding natural initiatives with the community and various and a general improvement in awareness and environment – to the north they draw on the reports that relate to the hill, yet it remains attitude towards these resources so that they Housing and communities are the big issues. fabulous vistas, south and southeast, over the stubbornly isolated and disconnected from the are better signposted, identified and utilised . With the university expansion in the south SSSI and area of outstanding natural beauty . wider city . In the first instance the challenge is to secure and the sprawling urban development in the Rather than let this whole area continue access at key points to feed into the existing north, these communities deserve careful to develop piecemeal, recognition of these pathway network and then to formalise the regeneration strategies in their own right . valuable assets demands that house building network of pathways with rights of way Presently, development is sprawling to the and other developments are planned carefully Key issues designation . north – the Local Development Plan recognises to ensure both appreciation, use and protection key major development sites, but there is of the beautiful eco-system on their doorstep . Much of the current focus is on Kilvey Hill and The hill and the bog and its surroundings are incremental development ongoing and existing anti-social behaviour. People around Kilvey Hill so vast that they can accommodate all sorts development has taken place with weak or Despite their continued isolation in physical use the area but levels of local activity could of recreational and commercial activity . But no real sustainable relationship to the long terms, the hill and east side are not by any be increased . The hill has a poor reputation, there are conflicts with disputes over some key suffering urban form . means ‘forgotten’ . Over the years a number of with some of the uses considered unsavoury routes that require resolution as well as conflict different initiatives were carried out on both the by some (e g. . scramblers) and there is a between users, for example scramblers . That manifests itself in a range of issues within Public Estate land and that managed by the perception that it is not an area that people are the communities to the north particularly, with Local Authority. drawn to/involved in . There are insufficient designated rights of way no definable centres to communities and local and until very recently nothing was formalised . amenities struggling to survive . In the south, The City Council’s Strategy for Greening the Connectivity to Kilvey Hill, as well as the Additionally, access is not restricted to just despite their isolation, the grid system of St City (1988) identified the area as a key wildlife approach to the foot of the hill, are seen as pathways, but also bridleways and in some Thomas and the maintenance of a reasonable reservoir and the forested area was identified challenges yet access points onto the hill from cases vehicles (horse and cart) clearly used residential density there has enabled local as community forest under the Forestry all of the surrounding communities are, in the to use some of these routes – tracking for amenities to survive, albeit not without a Commission Wales’ Forest Initiative (1991) .

41 Between the mid-1990’s and 2001 a joint Various projects have taken place on Kilvey the proposals and an example of the clashes project between NRW and the Local Authority Hill, including: of interest for using the hill . There is scope to Initiatives had a series of dedicated Project Officers pursue further forestry projects on the hill with who carried out land management work and • development of a community downhill the community . Walkable access routes on to Kilvey Hill itself community projects on the hill . In 1993, the mountain bike route; are plentiful, although the entry points and the Kilvey Community Woodland Project (which • development and installation of a Sculpture Management of the existing Kilvey woodlands network of paths all around merit some tender also includes wooded areas in the Lower trail; (around 72 hectares), which is on land owned love and care, and need consolidation . Swansea Valley to the north of the study area) • community management agreements with the by the Local Authority and leased by NRW, is was launched with the first Project Officer Kilvey Community Woodland Volunteers; relatively low-level . The Forestry section of Morris Lane link appointed in April 1994 whose role was to • adoption of a Public Rights of Way network at NRW would benefit from improved access manage the woodland under the guidance of the site; routes . NRW’s formal access route is from On the south side, access up the historic a Steering Group . • community events taking place on the football Pentrechwyth but this is currently not suitable Morris Lane is worthy of a special ‘walking field; for vehicles, and vehicle access is via an route’ project in its own right, with information Successive Project Officers engaged with a • conservation management work by both unofficial route accessed from Bonymaen . boards all the way from its riverside origins cross section of the community and carried NRW and the Local Authority to improve the out a range of tasks on the hill, including the biodiversity of the site, namely the heathland introduction of much of the ‘infrastructure’ that areas; and still exists on the site and is currently managed • work by the Kilvey Community Woodland by either NRW or the Local Authority. This was Volunteers with pupils from Cefn Hengoed probably one of the most successful periods at Goblin’s Garden in the woodlands above of management and engagement within the Pentrechwyth . area and many of the personnel involved still have a role within the Local Authority. A Community activity, including support from management plan, which was compiled with NRW’s Come Outside initiative needs to be broad stakeholder consultation, has been in protected and nurtured . As with many such place for the woodland since 1997 . initiatives in communities there is great potential but limited resources . The Kilvey Subsequent, successful projects between NRW Community Woodland Volunteers group Rangers and the Kilvey Community Woodland continues and they are making an agreement Volunteers have continued the work begun with NRW to manage some land near Hanover under the previous phase . The Ranger post Square on the Bonymaen side for cultivation (a was also in place to undertake a large-scale community growing project – potentially with community consultation on the newly (2004) fruit trees). Land there is used for scrambling, approved Forest Design Plan . so raising issues about the sustainability of

Morris Lane link 42 Key gateways on to Kilvey Hill (see notes in the Lower Tawe section also) to • NRW’s entrance gate at the end of Danygraig the climb up to the existing viewing area at the Road needs attention to be opened up and summit . made more inviting (or potentially removed and replaced with something that restricts motor vehicle access but that signals that other users “Morris Lane is worthy of a special are welcome); ‘walking route’ project.” • on the south side, improved access around the cemetery; • at the back of Jersey Park on Gwyn Terrace Gateway enhancements 2 access points up on to the hill warrant formalisation through signposting and There are several gateway sites on to the hill, publicity; and these access points are largely sufficient • at Dupre Road, better access onto the hillside to allow for community access to the hill would help open up a steep hillside, the old in number with some benefitting from past reservoir and a disused quarry and through projects to improve them. However, to varying route – indeed this is an area that is worthy degrees, the access points on to the hill require of a small study to create a small recreation enhancement and formalisation by signposting, project in its own right; making features, parking in certain areas, • on the road that leads up to the school/ and disabled access improvements wherever community centre there is a path just opposite feasible . that also warrants further improvement and highlighting; • key points at the top end of Grenfell Park/ “Access points on to the hill require Elmhurst Crescent could be highlighted, enhancement and formalisation including the historic connection down Kilvey by signposting, making features, Road through Foxhole to White Rock; and • on the northern side of the hill the access to parking in certain areas, and the hillside at the end of Taplow Terrace and disabled access improvements.” Rifleman’s Row at Grenfell Town is a gem of old industrial Swansea – the urban realm here is tough and has been subject to measures to Some specific initiatives at relatively low cost discourage joy riding . But treated with care, and easy to complete for the most part include: this location might be treated as a fine entry point on to the hill .

43 Enhanced cycle networks The emerging cycle network in and around Development Plan and other maps, but they the routes that would be most appropriate for Bonymaen and the Lower Swansea Valley are not all formally recognised as rights of way horses are patently wide track routes not just New cycle connections have recently been should be developed onward with links north and/or bridleways . They should be . footpaths . This has to be resolved . It is not a agreed that link to Bonymaen – there is an and east of Jersey Road to link up with Trallwn significant issue if some routes need gating, existing short cycle path off Jersey Road in and Llansamlet plus an eastern link to join up Two points of note in this regard are the age as long as they are accessible . At the moment Bonymaen, which drops steeply to Atlantic with the new Coed Darcy development to the and obvious existence of two lanes, Morris they are being blocked for certain users – if Close in the Lower Swansea Valley (traveling east, potentially through the bog . Lane – Windmill Lane, and Reservoir Way, we are interested in the long-term utility of beneath the A4217 road and the main which are not recorded as restricted byways or popularising this vast natural resource then Swansea to London railway line). From there, bridleways or highways .There are also “tracks” agreements about the use of these routes the route will now split as follows: “The emerging cycle network in that should have formalised status . should be pursued . and around Bonymaen and the • one route will continue along the pavement Lower Swansea Valley should be One of those routes goes through Dan y From discussion with NRW officers, the existing northwards alongside Valley Way to the lake, Beacon to Windmill and is the source of some lease that NRW has requires NRW to issue where it will join the existing cycle path on the developed.” conflict – other routes do not appear tobe permits for the use of horses and horse-related east side of the Tawe, which runs down to the as controversial but still warrant protection . activities for areas not designated as rights of Liberty Stadium and the NCN 43 cycle route, The problem has arisen since the rights of way . Whilst it seems that any such lease would plus a northern route around the lake, and A modest study would map out a viable route way designation, which has been weak . To almost certainly be granted, the lease wording onwards to the Tawe and up to the Morriston swiftly, and much of the route could likely be our knowledge, nobody is objecting to people merits revisiting to remove the need for such 43 route; and formalised and developed at very low cost in walking anywhere and therefore access per licensing, and in any case a more robust rights • the second route, which also starts with the the short term . se is not an issue . But for non-designated of way network would remove the need for short cycle path from Jersey Road, will turn routes there is no protection – legal access this anyway for the key routes . The lease to southwards using the disused railway (to Rights of way is identified by the Countryside Rights of Way NRW seems to have facilitated much better the old Cwm Halt station) and then follows a (CROW) legislation . Because some routes have access and public rights over the land – it is muddy track to Pluck Lake, going through the The rights of way network on the hill is been designated, other routes are downgraded managed and encouraged, but it is not formally existing underpass under Nantong Way and on inadequate – it does not fully represent the in perception . part of the Countryside Rights of Way (CROW) towards Morrisons, where it will then join the historic footways and bridle paths, giving rise to legislation . existing cycle path through the Morfa shops to conflict . If the hill is to be a popular recreational These other routes are vulnerable and subject join the 43 route at the Liberty Stadium. resource, including for bikes and horse riders, to the lease between the city and NRW and We should stress that nobody (to our the routes crossing it are vitally important also to the rights of private landowners . They knowledge) is challenging access, including In addition, there are plans to also complete and should be registered and consolidated as are for the most part traditional pathways, the owners of the disputed stretch of pathway the short missing link of cycle route NCN 43 popular rights of way and bridleways . some of which are still visibly tracked roads at Dan y Beacon, rather it is restricting certain (on the east side of the Tawe) between the suited to carriages (not just footpaths) and types of access and highlights the potential for cross valley dual carriageway road bridge and Various paths and tracks are indicated on the should be maintained and formalised as such further restrictions/loss of access if routes are Brunel Way where it crosses the river . City and County of Swansea Council’s Unitary for a variety of users, not just walkers . Many of not formalised .

44 Track ways on Kilvey Hill

45 Therefore, it would be of significant benefit for be such that they encourage the development Bonymaen and Hengoed need an urban design indicates at least 4 substantial development the local communities to formalise tracks . All of associated activities – pony treks to the study to establish where houses can be built sites around the backs of these settlements . the tracks into the area should be recorded as summit, horse and cart rides – these have and how a new district sub-centre could be public rights of way, preferably with restricted an authenticity with roots in local culture developed/sustained to resource the existing byway or bridleway status . and people who can deliver them, providing community let alone any new development . It “Development to the north of income streams for local people as usage of is certainly an area of creeping development the hill should be encouraged the hill grows . The infrastructure, including all the way down to and beyond the Hengoed “All the tracks into the area should the formalisation of the network of paths to Court Carehome . Much of this is relatively new where it strengthens existing be recorded as public rights of way, preserve routes, must be in place to support and is just spreading – development needs to communities and also to create new preferably with restricted byway or that so that it can grow and develop . be controlled and planned . communities.” bridleway status.” Brokesby, further south, is similar and warrants “The pathway network and particular mention given its boundary with the Development to the north of the hill should gateways should be such that they Kilvey Hill resource. be encouraged where it strengthens existing Beyond local communities though, if the hill is communities and also to create new to be seriously considered as a tourism and encourage the development of Brokesby can be strengthened through building communities . For these more traditional, post- visitor destination (within whatever ecological associated activities – pony treks to to protect the vulnerable backs of houses that War communities some basic principles should safeguarding parameters NRW’s specialists the summit, horse and cart rides.” are open to the hillside . Such a development be laid down early to guarantee fundamental wish to bring to bear) then, as a minimum, completing the block there could provide scope design parameters and to require that the the pathway network needs formalisation and to run a road in front of a new row and at the edges of existing communities are given every consolidation . The conflicts that are arising In addition to the above, a further modest but same time contribute to formalising the forestry opportunity to establish their own sub-centres already may be replicated elsewhere and this important initiative will be the upgrades of access from near that point . That also needs to to provide much needed social and economic needs some urgent attention by key partners to various existing paths/tracks to improve access be wrapped into a more detailed urban design resources . resolve it before any key access routes are lost . on the hill from all surrounding communities . study of that community, neighbourhood and Ensure reasonable accessibility rather than green space . Kilvey Hill, along with Crymlyn Bog and the the costly (both in terms of establishment and “Each community warrants its canal, are enjoyed by the public and belong upkeep) process of laying formal paths of dust/ own study to explore the issues in “Brokesby can be strengthened in the horse-driving culture, which is strongly ash/chippings or hard surfaces . detail.” embedded in the area . Development of the through building to protect the enjoyment of the countryside on foot, horse Ensuring sustainable urban development or cycle can provide employment as well as vulnerable backs of houses that are The complexities of sustainable community benefiting the public . open to the hillside.” development are such that each community “Bonymaen and Hengoed need an warrants its own study to explore the issues The pathway network and gateways should urban design study.” The Local Development Plan consultation draft in detail, and this is a worthwhile process, but

46 there are several fundamental principles to sector can colonise a site there to provide a At night, the radio masts could be lit and/or a Developing projects that build on local adhere to, namely: café and visitor centre . light sculpture atop the hill can be created – a horse culture dramatic ‘son et lumière’ feature . An artwork • planning for communities to be supported can be created, which may be a structure but Pony trekking, horse riding and cart rides should by their own sub-centres, which means “The existing viewing platform may also be laid on the hillside (e .g . the Cerne be developed with the local community – they sufficiently dense residential settlement within should be augmented with the Abbas Giant or the ‘Rude Man’) on the green will provide additional means of accessing 400m (approximately a 5 minute walking addition of a visitor centre.” field, which is visible looking eastwards to the the higher areas on the hilltop and sides and distance) of sub-centres; hill from the city’s Kingsway . can deliver a tourist attraction and community • suitable facilities to cater for differing users, resource in their own right .A community project including children’s play and street designs The notion of an iconic artwork atop the hill Given the visual framing of the side of the hill or projects can be established to support that that recognise and cater to families – home near to the viewing point has been oft repeated by the buildings, and the link suggested to run endeavour, with associated income generation zone style developments that encourage street and never realised . It appears again in current from Kingsway to St Thomas, initiatives that potential to support the project and wider activity and manage motor vehicle speeds; discussion documents in relation to the City encourage people to look up and see the hill community initiatives on the hill . The private • a range of housing type and tenure to ensure a Region . There is merit in considering an iconic will help to thematically link it to the city centre sector on the hill may also be interested in mix of population; feature on top of Kilvey Hill, but the visitor and the wider population . developing such an initiative . • perimeter blocks where vulnerable backs centre itself could provide that iconic structure of houses are protected through ‘back to through innovative design . It is easy to overstate the potential for artworks back’ developments with frontages all facing like these in terms of connectivity and alone “Pony trekking, horse riding and outwards; and Kilvey Hill dominates views east from the city the impact is likely to be relatively modest, cart rides should be developed with • a permeable street grid system to permit easy centre and yet it is easy for it to almost blend into so the scale needs to be appropriate to the the local community.” access on foot to diverse socio-economic the background for local residents . Initiatives likely impact . Nevertheless, as part of a raft resources – shops, pub, schools, play and to are needed that visually connect the hill to the of initiatives this can add a further dimension the natural environment . city . As well as an iconic design at the summit, to connectivity as well as raising awareness Forest management one or more features could be developed to locally of the hill as a natural asset for the Iconic feature and visitor centre further encourage visual links – these might wider Swansea community . An existing volunteers group is active on the be on the hill as well as at key points in the city hill and community woodland initiatives have At the summit of the hill, where the cable e .g . framing devices that encourage people to This latter project can be developed in been delivered . Such projects are notoriously car terminates, the existing viewing platform look through them towards the hill . These need conjunction with the Art Across the City difficult to sustain, are heavily reliant on public should be augmented with the addition of a not be purely physical – virtual aspects should initiative – a well established and high quality sector support (either in cash or in kind), and, visitor centre to provide a focus for mountain also be considered . arts initiative that takes place annually in given the prevailing economic conditions, will biking, pony trekking, walkers and visitors . Swansea. Locws International, who coordinate be more and more challenging to sustain . the event, have expertise in raising funds for However, there is a substantial forest resource Get the cable car and routes up the hill “Initiatives are needed that visually such initiatives and delivering them to a high on the hill, not used for significant commercial functioning and it is likely that the private connect the hill to the city.” standard . activity by NRW .

47 A modest commercial initiative led by the Community renewables initiatives resolution and formalisation – they are a user Events programme community could manage the NRW forestry group in their own right and merit a project to and generate income from sale of woodland Solar gain projects on the south side of the accommodate them. However, it is difficult to Events and activities that draw attention to and produce in finished and unfinished format . hill should be explored – we are aware of an envisage a suitable site to accommodate this promote the hill and its features provide further early scheme for photovoltaics in one of the on the hill alongside other users and so the opportunities to raise awareness and change Wood recycling and other activities can also old quarries . Visual intrusion there is minimal answer to this may lie elsewhere – perhaps attitudes and behaviour . An events programme be developed if access can be consolidated whilst offering scope for energy generation in the nearby Lower Swansea Valley/Swansea should be established with dedicated resources and improved adequately . Such uses can with its southerly aspect . Vale with the formalisation of a motorcross/ (person time and finance) to support it . be complimentary to other uses for forest, scrambling course that is easily accessible including mountain biking, horse riding and NRW should consider such projects in (physically and in terms of affordability) . These events should be conceived to have a walkers . conjunction with the community and with the broad appeal – city-wide and beyond, whilst solar research base at Baglan, with proceeds A small study is required to identify a suitable retaining accessibility and benefit for local from sale of energy back to the grid covering site or sites for motorcross outside but communities . “A modest commercial initiative led capital costs initially and later providing an sufficiently close to the current study area and by the community could manage the income stream towards funding projects of a management process for that site, with the “An events programme should NRW forestry and generate income community benefit .Again, this may be a private users at the heart of any such approach . This sector led opportunity with retained community too has potential to become a social enterprise . be established with dedicated from sale of woodland produce.” benefits . resources (person time and finance) Links between this and other existing woodland “A small study is required to to support it.” projects under one umbrella will create mutual “Solar gain projects on the south identify a suitable site or sites for support . side of the hill should be explored.” motorcross outside but sufficiently A Kilvey Road Race for cycles around the hill Community permaculture activities should also close to the current study area.” along the bog road, up through Ty Draw, through be established on the hill in conjunction with a Motorcross Bonymaen, up the steep incline at Foxhole and forestry initiative, perhaps in partnership with around through St Thomas and Port Tennant the Swansea Community Farm and Swansea The study has not identified a suitable space for would be a challenging extreme ride that could Environment Centre/Swansea Environmental motorbikes – they clash with other users and attract sponsorship and significant interest Forum . residential uses . It is not sustainable, advisable with relatively modest impact in terms of road or desirable to attempt to ‘cleanse’ this from closures and the like . the area . There will be people wanting to ride “Community permaculture activities scrambler bikes regardless of attempts to There are numerous opportunities: a downhill should also be established on the regulate or remove it and so the best approach mountain bike race; a ‘peak challenge’ run hill.” is to make suitable provision . So, this needs from the base to the top of the hill; a zip wire Torbay myplace project BMX and motorcross facility 48 from the summit – all of these are modest in cost and can begin to change perceptions of the hill and encourage new users .

Downhill cycling racing

Site-specific theatre; lighting events and activities that highlight the natural environment; a hilltop presence with supporting private sector led facilities (café or similar) with opportunities for small scale music events and performances – there are numerous opportunities for creative initiatives to showcase the envoronment and attract a wide array of visitors .

49 Broader strategic consideRATIONS

FIVE

50 There are further non-site specific the assets of the river, the hill and the boglands increased speed and a poorer pedestrian considerations that should be adopted warrant inclusion in crafting and pushing that “Ensure that a holistic view environment) and can be used as a way of into the strategic thinking of the two local identity . preventing schemes that might hinder traffic authorities that cover the study area, as of connectivity is taken when flow in any way, particularly cycling and well as NRW and its partners. As noted previously, in the longer-term it is considering developments in or pedestrian scheme improvements . quite likely that the urban area will surround immediately adjacent to the study the study area, gradually merging Swansea There are means of providing acceptable levels with Neath Port Talbot with the study area in area.” of flow whilst giving pedestrians and cyclists Initiatives the centre as a wilderness in the heart of the greater prominence – the example of Poynton city (region) . This applies to industrial development and is worthy of reference here, indeed that should Place promotion and city branding highways as well as broader urban development serve as a model for most key junctions across That identity – an accessible urban wilderness, for housing or other purposes . the city . There are other innovative solutions, There is a broader issue for Swansea (Bay) a nature reserve and country park in the heart already successfully adopted in the US and to redefine its identity, further complicated of an urban area, can be evolved, particularly Highways developments that have not elsewhere, such as the creation of parking between the dual identity between a city with as the Fabian Way corridor develops, to ‘sell’ considered (or have not made adequate protected bike lanes on key roads . surrounding satellite settlements, and a wider the sites as a whole but with very different arrangements for) pedestrian and cycle links City Region concept . In both cases the city constituent parts – the stunning views and are the most significant barrier to connectivity Shared surface in Cardiff (region) has a confused and poorly articulated outdoor recreation offered by Kilvey Hill; an to date . All future highways developments ‘brand’, which needs to be resolved as part of East River Eco-Park and west side High Line on must consider pedestrian and cycle access to its wider regeneration efforts . its western fringe along the river focusing on a key sites both alongside their routes and also potential world heritage site at Copperopolis; across them . Such initiatives might require the SSSI wilderness of the bog; and the canals traffic flow to be reduced in some instances - “The natural environment should linking it all together . It is an incredibly rich that is a price worth paying . feature as a key asset and brand package . driver for the city’s branding.” Planning criteria “All future highways developments must consider pedestrian and cycle Irrespective of the final message that is crafted, The City and County of Swansea Council as the natural environment should feature as a key the planning authority covering the bulk of the access to key sites both alongside asset and brand driver for the city’s branding, study area, but also Neath Port Talbot County their routes and also across them.” and it is essential that there is a cohesive and Borough Council, should ensure that a holistic broadly understood meaning attached to this . view of connectivity is taken when considering Air quality issues raised by idling traffic are Historically, this is restricted to the Bay and developments in or immediately adjacent to often cited as a barrier and an argument Gower . But as this study has demonstrated, the study area . for increased flow (which generally means

Protected cycle lane in New York 51 Such innovative approaches should be trialled Current trends suggest a relatively slow take- Planning criteria should take account of the to its lack of connectivity with the sea – that is in the study area to showcase exemplar up societally, but that is not to say that it cannot natural assets that will enhance value for new as much about the lack of visual connection (at projects for pedestrian and cycle connectivity be accelerated through a concerted effort and developments if they are harnessed correctly . ground level) as it is the physical connectivity and the universities should be at the forefront clever design that encourages it at a local or between the city and the sea . of such thinking . regional level . That applies both to promoting/preserving the physical accessibility - connectivity - between Signposting As noted elsewhere, the key requirements residential, educational and commercial activity “Innovative approaches should for new development in and around the study and those assets (celebrating the assets Whilst sight-lines are important, the topography be trialled in the study area to area are for crossings to be at grade, following rather than turning their back on them as has of the area and the nature of the built desire lines, and for pedestrians and cyclists to happened in several developments referenced environment mean that, at ground level, there showcase exemplar projects for be given precedence or at the very least parity previously) but also preserving ‘vistas’ – visual will inevitably be a requirement to signpost pedestrian and cycle connectivity.” with motor vehicles . The emphasis should be as well as physical connectivity to the city’s these resources for pedestrians, cyclists and on accessibility to a wide range of users . natural assets should be considered as part of motor vehicles . planning criteria . There are other means of innovative thinking to In residential areas, Home Zone style initiatives Imaginative signage needs to be implemented, further reduce arguments for prioritising motor should be encouraged to keep traffic speeds Already, views of the river are being lost both as a means of wayfinding, but also adding vehicles in order to prevent reductions in air low and to encourage street life and connectivity through a lack of consideration of maintaining to and reflecting the identity of the area . The quality, for example NRW’s iTree initiative in for pedestrians and cycles at that scale, which sight lines – there is a visual as well as style and system adopted should allow for Neath, which is piloting a scheme to assess can be extended through to further encourage physical connectivity of these natural assets to adoption more broadly e .g . at Copperopolis how effective different trees are at removing connection with natural assets . the city’s urban areas and being able to see and in the Bay, providing continuity and pollutants – this might be rolled out in the them from key vantage points is important in thematic links to indicate that these are all study area . signalling their presence and how one might part of a much larger and connected whole . As “In residential areas, Home reach them, as well as maintaining a broader part of a broader theme, there is an emerging Additionally, the swift adoption of electric Zone style initiatives should be sense of place ‘Dylan Thomas font’ that might be used across vehicles should be planned for and encouraged, city signage for example – compare with the with for example a requirement for electric encouraged.” way in which a Charles Rennie Mackintosh font charging points in all new developments, “Visual as well as physical is increasingly being used throughout Glasgow . and certainly in/near to the new university connectivity to the city’s natural campuses and the Lagoon. assets should be considered as part “Imaginative signage needs to be of planning criteria.” implemented.” “The swift adoption of electric vehicles should be planned for and The city must take care not to repeat the There are already small-scale sculpture trails encouraged.” problems it is currently trying to overcome due on the hill and this report recommends further A Home Zone 52 measures to encourage visual connection with Interpretation should not lose sight of the the hillside from afar . Those measures warrant people that bring those stories to life, both in “The two universities should “Encourage the installation of their own interpretation and celebration with the past and now as residents and custodians extended trails and associated materials . of the natural environment . be encouraged to review this bicycle racks in visible, overlooked report and consider how the locations.” Additional trails and walks to encourage people There are hints in place names to the area’s recommendations might fit with to access them should be formalised, and a rich history – Bargeman’s Way, Rifleman’s Other simple initiatives are to include shower coordinated marketing process should be Row, Grenfell Town . The etymology of place their existing course structures.” and locker facilities in the work place . The established for these and other initiatives (e .g . names opens up a window to the past and can public sector should do this, but the private pony treks to the summit, mountain biking) . uncover that rich history and further develop a Recognising there are hills here sector should be actively encouraged to do so sense of place . also . Again, this is a citywide recommendation The cable car will need provision for bikes, but but applies to the encouragement of “Additional trails and walks to These initiatives need not take place in there will be other users that will want to access connectivity to this area (the universities and encourage people to access isolation – there will be further phases of work the hill and other assets from different points . businesses in SA1 and Crymlyn particularly but at Copperopolis and both universities should A simple, low cost initiative (which should be also developments at Copperopolis) . them should be formalised, and be engaged in this initiative to take advantage adopted city wide and not just in the study area) a coordinated marketing process of their complimentary skill sets, for example is to include bike racks on buses – the city has should be established.” historical interpretation through Swansea steep hills and whilst many cyclists will relish University coupled with the cutting edge digital the challenge, making cycling part of people’s animation of University of Wales Trinity Saint everyday activity for transport and not purely Signposting is of course more than a physical David offers a tantalising prospect . a leisure activity needs acknowledgement that process and virtual resources also need to be the terrain in the city is steep in places and developed, linking the natural environment The possibilities here are many and varied and that assisting transit up steeper inclines may and the city’s heritage and providing a range this warrants a project in its own right . encourage more people to cycle . of virtual mapping, interpretation and learning opportunities . As a start point, the two universities should be encouraged to review this report and consider “Include bike racks on buses.” how the recommendations might fit with their “Virtual resources also need to existing course structures (undergraduate Another simple provision is to encourage be developed, linking the natural and postgraduate) and how they might as the installation of bicycle racks in visible, institutions add value to these proposals whilst overlooked locations that are safe and that in environment and the city’s also benefitting their students . themselves signal that cycling is encouraged, heritage.” viable and celebrated .

Prominent provisions for cyclists 53 Make the routes for cyclists safer, make it on land to the north of Kilvey Hill, there should easier to cycle, and pay attention to the key be a more imaginative application of Section “Incorporate high standards of “Rights of Way should be formally access points, and it will encourage further 106 funds to support the natural environment . journeys by cycle for general transport, not just This would signal their worth and provide a design and materials at the outset established to preserve all key for leisure . Using the routes in and around the substantial funding resource for maintenance . in order to reduce longer-term access routes.” natural environment for connectivity through maintenance costs.” as well as to them for leisure purposes (with the necessary safeguards to ensure the “Charges for occupants of large Community engagement and ownership environment is suitably protected, in the bog new housing developments should Additionally, whilst the pressure will be to reduce particularly) will further bring them to people’s costs, care should be taken to incorporate high As detailed in the logic chain at the outset – attention and build a sense of ownership and be applied to contribute to the standards of design and materials at the outset the principal first phase outcomes, focused on pride as they become part of day to day lives maintenance costs of the local in order to reduce longer-term maintenance connectivity and raising awareness, are intended and not just somewhere to occasionally visit . natural environment.” costs – it is better to do a smaller number to drive enhanced community engagement and of projects that will last than several that will ownership . Discussion with key stakeholders Maintaining initiatives become dilapidated and unsustainable . indicated a sense amongst people on the east There are precedents for developing a side of ‘always being consulted but not a lot Connection routes will require upkeep and maintenance allowance through sales/lease of happening’, so delivering some ‘quick win’ development; most are likely to fall into public new homes where they are created, for example “For larger development sites, the projects that will better connect people with ownership, but some may remain in (or may the Portbury Wharf site near Portishead where establishment and maintenance their local natural environment can swiftly become) privately owned . In the case of the planning consent for the Port Marine housing begin to build greater awareness of, attitude former, costs of maintaining these key assets, development was granted on condition that the costs of key routes should be built towards, and engagement with natural assets particularly in the likely continuing constraints developers designate a nature reserve on the into development agreements.” by local people . on public funding at least in the short term, will adjoining land . need to be a key consideration . The site is funded through Port Marine Where sites are privately owned, accessibility in “Local people should be involved Management Company that receives the long-term needs to be preserved formally . in the delivery of projects either “There should be a more income from each of the residents on site For larger development sites, the establishment directly through social enterprise imaginative application of Section (avonwildlifetrust .org .uk) . and maintenance costs of key routes should be and community action, or as active 106 funds to support the natural built into development agreements . Rights of Similar charges for occupants of large new Way should be formally established to preserve participants on multi-stakeholder environment.” housing developments should be applied to all key access routes that are not currently contribute to the maintenance costs of the designated as such and amendments to any partnership approaches, as well Given the significant total development value of local natural environment . Rights of Way on key access routes should be as through apprenticeship and job the Fabian Way corridor, the riverside and also resisted . creation schemes.”

54 Community engagement needs to go beyond NRW, the two local authorities, the two with appropriate resources, this is entirely consultation – local people should be involved universities, the ABMU and the two CVCs achievable and an evidence-based approach in the delivery of projects either directly through covering the study area . to application should be developed and social enterprise and community action, or championed through a formative, ongoing as active participants on multi-stakeholder evaluation process . partnership approaches, as well as through “Regardless of austerity measures apprenticeship and job creation schemes an imaginative, innovative multi- “An evidence-based approach to related to the Council’s Beyond Bricks and agency collaboration should be Mortar approach . application should be developed and established.” Projects to establish boardwalks and gateway championed through a formative, features can create employment opportunities Those agencies can provide the necessary ongoing evaluation process.” and also engage local volunteers . The nearby support to deliver an effective and dynamic Bay Studios has contributed significantly to the community engagement process and they can Alongside this report we have provided some local economy by maximising its use of local provide the mechanism to lever in additional indication of the wider evidence base in a suppliers – there is a model to follow . There support where necessary . separate paper . That will need augmentation is a commonly held misconception that public but provides the basis from which the potential sector procurement prevents this – it does not, Measuring impact longer-term impacts of the various initiatives it just requires careful thought and care when identified here can be understood . preparing tender documents . The study began with the mapping of a logic chain and a series of outcomes . With Encouraging and enabling effective community refinement, this produces the beginning of an engagement requires dedicated resources evaluation framework . Any initiative needs an over a sustained period of time, but there are accompanying evidence base to demonstrate various support agencies active in the area impact against desired outcomes . It is essential and the city more widely, some of them – the that any such process is outcome (not output) universities for example – have a wide array focused, and that it recognises itself as a of resources aside from direct community formative process . Many initiatives will need engagement activities, that can be brought to testing, and many will take time to achieve bear to assist in this process . impacts .

Regardless of austerity measures an These are not problems, but they do present imaginative, innovative multi-agency challenges for the effective monitoring of collaboration should be established, including progress and evaluation of impact. However,

55 CONCLUSION

SIX

56 That the east side and its natural environs will be much work to be done to make these with further detailed feasibility work and are cut off from the city is well understood. recommendations sufficiently central to subsequently with project implementation) will Given that longstanding acknowledgement development thinking, with a considerable require dedicated resources to drive them . of the issue, there has been relatively emphasis on city centre regeneration, which little concerted effort to redress it. As (though well placed) can draw attention from As a start point, a partnership should be formed part of an ecosystems approach, in which initiatives elsewhere . with NRW, the universities, the City and County social, economic and environmental of Swansea and Neath Port Talbot Country considerations interrelate, this study The initiatives identified in this study range Borough Councils, the ABMU Health Board, the places connectivity within a logic chain from quick win and low cost, to more ambitious Swansea Environmental Forum, and the local that illustrates the causal links between schemes that will help to better connect these councils for voluntary services to identify how connectivity to assets and wider benefits. natural assets to the city and bring attention the development of these initiatives fits within to an all-embracing city tourism hub at White their existing priorities and work streams and Within the study area there are a wide Rock and Copperopolis . establish the scope and parameters for taking range of stakeholders, with a complex set them further . of interrelationships and various conflicts – The initiatives are a combination of those that that creates complexity, but also provides will work at a micro level, better connecting These natural resources are gems – unique significant opportunities for collaboration and communities that live in or immediately elements of place that the city is currently creation of mutual benefit . adjacent to these assets with them; and dramatically understating .They warrant serious, those that will work at a macro level, better strategic efforts from multiple stakeholders as The river is becoming more prominent in city connecting these assets to the wider city both part of the long-term development of the city development thinking, but remains relatively physically and thematically . and the wider City Region . A first step is to peripheral; the hill, canals and boglands barely secure wider buy-in and formal recognition of feature . The excellent start at Copperopolis There are various constraints to achieving their key role, focus on achieving some ‘quick needs to be maintained and developed change, not least the need for public bodies wins’, and identify resources for developing in conjunction with Swansea University . to take a lead on them at a time when public these proposals to the next stage . Combined with the developments to the south finances are under unprecedented pressure . by University of Wales Trinity Saint David, which However, that pressure drives the need to find We begin our work with the premise that the has the potential to bring real life to the SA1 new ways of doing things, and there is potential surest sign of effective regeneration is local river frontage, these developments highlight for a collaborative multi-agency approach to people visibly loving, cherishing, and involving the potential of the river and can assist in realising the aspirations outlined in this study . themselves in their city and its natural assets . further driving the changes identified herein . The ingredients in Swansea Bay are all there, There are multiple stakeholders with a range of and some of the foremost assets are those The study has demonstrated a series of constraints and differing agendas and pulling that this study has focused on . These assets initiatives that NRW can help to drive, either those partners together, generating consensus need to be brought to the fore, connected, as a lead partner or as a ‘catalyst’ – there and moving these projects forwards (initially celebrated, and loved .

57 Appendix 1 References

ATKINS CONSULTANTS LTD. (2002). CITY AND COUNTY OF SWANSEA COUNCIL PURCELL LTD. (2014). Hafod and Morfa Restoration of the Neath, Tennant and (no date) . Open Space Assessment City and Copperworks – Bringing to Life One of the Swansea Canals – Feasibility Study . Atkins County of Swansea Council Great Industrial Treasures of Wales. Purcell Ltd. BRITISH WATERWAYS ON BEHALF OF THE DTZ, CHAMPAN TAYLOR, VECTOS AND WELSH DEVELOPMENT AGENCY (2003). EMOTIONAL LOGIC (2015). Swansea City SWANSEA CANAL SOCIETY (1997). Waterspace Strategy – Prince of Wales Dock, Centre – Strategic Framework Review. City Waterlinks. Swansea Canal Society Swansea. WDA and County of Swansea Council SWANSEA CITY COUNCIL (1990). Swansea CITY AND COUNTY OF SWANSEA COUNCIL HYDER CONSULTING (2006). Tawe Riverside Eastside Initiative. Swansea City Council (2015) . LDP consultation draft (various online Corridor Study – Development and Transport materials). City and County of Swansea Assessment. Hyder Consulting SWANSEA CITY COUNCIL (1989). Greening the City – Consultation Draft. Swansea City CITY AND COUNTY OF SWANSEA COUNCIL IAN WALKER AND ASSOCIATES & Council (2015) . East Communities First Cluster SINCLAIR CONSULTANCY SERVICES IN Delivery Plan 2015-16. City and County of ASSOCIATION WITH MRM PARTNERSHIP SWANSEA CITY COUNCIL (1989). Swansea Swansea Council CONSULTING ENGINEERS (1994). The Local Plan – Written Statement. Swansea City Tennant Link. Swansea City Council Council CITY AND COUNTY OF SWANSEA COUNCIL (2013) . Local Development Plan – Green NATURAL RESOURCES WALES (NO DATE). SWANSEA COMMUNITY BOAT TRUST (2010) . Infrastructure Topic Paper. City and County of Project Outline for Crymlyn Bog CAN Project. Tawe River Navigation Heritage Trail . Swansea Swansea Council Natural Resources Wales Community Boat Trust and Herian

CITY AND COUNTY OF SWANSEA COUNCIL NATURAL RESOURCES WALES (NO DATE). UNIVERSITY OF WALES TRINITY SAINT DAVID (1997) . Kilvey Community Woodland Project Crymlyn Bog Access Plan. Natural Resources (2015) . Swansea Waterfront Innovation Management Plan. City and County of Wales Quarter – a unique commercial partnership Swansea opportunity. UWTSD

58 • Local schools; • Kilvey Hill Woodland Volunteers Group; positive through increased access but also Appendix 2 • Police (probation); • Kilvey SOUL (Save Our Unclassified Lanes) negative if connections are not well thought • Fire services; Forum; through, or the value of the bog a natural Stakeholders • Community Councils; • Swansea residents from outside the asset is not recognised through design); • Local Service Board; immediate locality; • Associated British Ports; • Swansea Environmental Forum and its • Tourists; • Business and property owners in SA1, The initial workshop with NRW officers various sub-groups; • Off roaders (Wales’ off-road committee); particularly with the development of the two considered the key stakeholders whose needs • Clear Streams Swansea. • Ramblers (Swansea Access Forum); new University campuses there; (summarised in Section 1 of the report) are • Mountain bike and cycle groups; • The Duke of Beaufort – owns much of the driving the logic chain that underpins this • Cycling related businesses (shops) in the river bed and other areas (there are some process and in turn this study . The list is Third sector and community area (Tredz, Giant Store); areas of contention of landownership); not intended to be exhaustive – the focus groups • BMX groups and shops in the area; • The Tidal Lagoon – a decision on the of this study is on projects of strategic • Tawe and Tribs anglers; Lagoon is imminent at the time of writing; benefit to improve connectivity . Most of the • Swansea Environment Centre (and any sub- • White Rock Ramblers; • Hotels and private tourism accommodation, recommendations in this report will require projects); • Hafod Morfa Friends; particularly those in the SA1 area and the further work to develop them, including more • Communities First East Cluster; • Heritage interest groups; city centre, but more broadly if the potential detailed feasibility studies for several aspects . • GSP Partnership; • Graziers / farmers; for all of these assets can be realised in Many, if not all, of the stakeholders listed • Sustrans; • Swansea Community Boat Trust; conjunction with city centre, Tidal Lagoon, here will need to be (re)engaged and others • Keep Wales Tidy; • Swansea Rowing Club; SA1 and other thematic (e .g . City of Culture) added as the initiatives identified in this study • Open Spaces Society; • Local canoe/rowing clubs/paddle boarders, developments; progress towards implementation . • Ashlands Sports Management Trust; kayakers; • Stan Garvertt – land owner of the golf club, • Local Housing Associations; • Local playgroups, parents and toddlers; around Jersey Marina Village; • CADW; • Various other recreation groups. • Various private landowners, including farms Public bodies and • GGAT; but also private landlords on and around partnerships • Welsh Water. Kilvey Hill particularly; Private sector • Businesses located along the Lower Tawe; • City & County of Swansea Council; • The Tennant Canal Company; • Prospective housing developers. • Neath Port Talbot County Borough Council; Users • Network Rail; • Elected Members locally, AMs and MPs; • People in local communities (including • The operators of the Tir John Landfill Site • Welsh Government; various residents associations both current (though this will revert to the Local Authority • ABMU Health Board (along with GP and and prospective); in future once the landfill is fully capped); health referral centres); • New residents of Coed Darcy and other • St Modwen – particularly for the Coed • Swansea University; new local developments that emerge (e .g . Darcy development to the east of the bog, • University of Wales Trinity Saint David; in SA1); which has significant potential impact (both

59 Contact details

Project contact: Report authors:

Fran Rolfe Dr. Ben Reynolds Environment Officer Gordon Gibson Natural Resource Management Team Urban Foundry

Natural Resources Wales, 2 Princess Way, Maes Newydd, Swansea, Llandarcy, SA1 3LW Neath Port Talbot

0300 653300 01792 655 264 fran .rolfe@cyfoethnaturiolcymru .gov .uk info@urbanfoundry .co .uk www .cyfoethnaturiolcymru .gov .uk www .urbanfoundry .co .uk

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