Road rainbows will add colour to city’s inclusive Wind Street

Three eye-catching road rainbows will add colour and further vibrancy to Wind Street, Swansea’s emerging new all-day destination.

The multi-coloured designs will span a newly-laid road being installed as part of the street’s Swansea Council-driven regeneration.

One has already been installed – two more will follow.

The 20mph one-way road – which will be accessible only to business traffic (and only then from 7-11am every day) – will also feature three informal pedestrian crossings complete with tactile kerbsides for those with a disability.

Elliott King, the council’s LGBTQ+ champion, said: “Swansea is a welcoming and diverse city. Wind Street will further add to its appeal – and our colourful areas of rainbow road will strengthen this message.

“They will reflect the positive messages associated with designs used by those celebrating LGBTQ+ life.”

Council leader Rob Stewart said: “Businesses are eager for the ‘new’ Wind Street to open; we’ve already been working with them to make it a welcoming day-time destination with restaurants opening out onto the street for families and visitors.

“The main work is on track to be practically completed by the end of this month so that the Christmas season should be a good one for Wind Street businesses.

“Our rainbow-coloured artworks will celebrate and promote Swansea’s diversity. Wind Street will be an inclusive environment; we want everybody to be free to enjoy it with friends and family without fear of intimidation, intolerance or hatred.”

Wind Street will play a key role in the city centre’s wider £1bn regeneration story.

Work on the street’s £3m upgrade began early this year after businesses and residents had given their views on the area’s future. Council engagement with local groups, traders and residents continues.

Council cabinet member Robert Francis-Davies said: “The ultimate aim is a welcoming, safe and enjoyable all-day family destination.”

(Lead image: Swansea Council)