Former city centre bank building set for major revamp

Plans have been unveiled for the trannsformation of a prominent commercial building in Swansea city centre.If approved, the former Barclays building – 69-70 The Kingsway – will become home to flexible workspace.The development would complement the neighbouring 71-72 Kingsway, a multimillion-pound home for tech and creative businesses about to go up on a site once occupied by nightclub Oceana.Plans show that the three-storey glass-fronted former Barclays building will be renovated with new tall glass windows and a ribbed aluminium screen. There will be new doors and, inside, a complete overhaul.The application was submitted to city planners by design consultant The Urbanists on behalf of the council.The design was undertaken by London-based Architecture 00, which is working alongside property specialists Gleeds, Cushman & Wakefield and WSP on this and 71-72 Kingsway.The vacant site has been acquired by Swansea Council and will back onto a new public square to one side of 71-72 Kingsway.The former Barclays building will stand close to the planned new Biophilic Living project – an eco-friendly building with homes and commercial space being driven by Wales-based Hacer. The Barclays project is supported by the European Regional Development Fund and Welsh Assembly Government.