New light being shone on popular seafront promenade

The popular walking and cycling route is used by thousands of residents and visitors every week.

Swansea Council is in the process of installing more than 300 energy efficient LED lighting bollards along the popular walking and cycling route so that users of the route can feel safer during the evening.

The new low-level lighting columns are being installed every 14 metres along the prom, following an investment of more than £400,000. Each energy efficient light is also expected to cost just £15 per year to light up.

The first phase between West Cross and Blackpill have been finished and further phases will be completed in order to ensure the entire stretch of promenade is illuminated. Works area expected to be fully complete early in 2024.

The latest installation follows on from works to light up a mile-long section of the route at West Cross which has already seen new lighting columns installed after local ward members invested funding from the Council’s community benefit scheme to install the lights

Andrew Stevens, Cabinet Member for Environment & Infrastructure, said: “Swansea Bay is such a popular destination for both locals and visitors to the area.

“The promenade welcomes thousands of people every week with many walking, pushing prams, walking their pets or cycling their way along, between the city centre and Mumbles.

“A mile-long section at West Cross has been improved with the recent installation of lights. We’ve now decided to invest in the installation of even more lighting between St Helen’s and Mumbles.

“I’m also pleased that the new lights have been chosen for their energy efficient qualities. We’ve estimated that each light will cost just £15 per year in terms of energy consumption, making this a great cost effective method of enhancing the route, helping to make people feel much safer during evenings.”

The promenade is also undergoing a major seawall upgrade, improving sea defences between Knab Rock and Oystermouth Square.

The plans also include the remodelling of the section of promenade along the route making it more user friendly for walkers and cyclists.

Cllr Stevens added: “Visual improvements to the area will create a greener, sustainable and attractive waterfront – an asset to the local community and an attraction for visitors.

“The improved sea defences will protect homes, businesses and leisure areas from the effects of rising sea levels for the foreseeable future.”

(Lead image: Swansea Council)