Green light for transformation of prominent building

Plans have been approved to transform a prominent commercial building in Swansea city centre. The development forms part of a wider regeneration scheme.The former Barclays building – 69-70 The Kingsway – is now set to become home to flexible workspace.The development is designed to complement the neighbouring 71-72 Kingsway, a multimillion-pound home for tech and creative businesses about to be constructed on the site once occupied by nightclub Oceana.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 contemporary workspace created.Submitted to city planners by design consultancy 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 delivered by Wales-based Hacer.The Barclays project is supported by the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) and Welsh Assembly Government. It complements the neighbouring development.71 and 72 Kingsway – formerly known as the Digital Village – forms part of the Swansea City and Waterfront Digital District project being part-funded by the £1.3bn Swansea Bay City Deal. It has also secured ERDF support.