Palace project already providing benefits to local communities

Main contractor R&M Williams is delivering the Palace Theatre community benefits and social value programme on behalf of the council.

Around 10 people so far have been employed through the initiative, schoolchildren have learnt about the high-profile heritage building project through site visits and several community initiatives have been supported by the benefits and social value drive.

Council cabinet member Alyson Anthony said: “I’m delighted that so many have benefitted from this scheme – overseen by our Beyond Bricks and Mortar Team – linked to the fantastic Palace project.

“Beyond Bricks and Mortar works hard to secure community benefits from all suitable council activities for the lasting benefits of the community. 

“By introducing community benefit clauses such as targeted recruitment and training into contracts we ensure that members of our community, especially young people and those who’ve been out of the job market for some time, are given opportunities of meaningful training and employment.”

Freya Church, social value manager of R&M Williams, said: “Local people are interested in the Palace project due to it being a busy site and due to its historic nature.

“Local charities and residents have benefited from our presence.

“Working with Beyond Bricks and Mortar, we’ve seen local people employed on this project, improving their career prospects.

“I’ve creatively engaged students and school pupils – and working with our suppliers we’ve tailored some specific support for Ysgol Crug Glas.”

Palace jobs created by the community benefits scheme include labouring, site administrator and scaffolder.

Education establishments taking part in the scheme have included Ysgol Crug Glas, Dylan Thomas Community School and Swansea University.

Community initiatives boosted have included Matthew’s House, Friends of The Palace Theatre and the Community Impact Initiative.

Others to have benefited have included Pentrehafod School, Port Talbot’s Ysgol Bae Baglan, Swansea Prison, Swansea Veterans Hub and the Wales Air Ambulance.

Planned activity over the coming months includes the recruitment of two more local labourers and well as series of educational site visits.

The Palace is due to reopen this year as a base for creative and tech businesses.

It’s due to be managed by Welsh firm Tramshed Tech.

The Palace regeneration project is being funded by the council and the Welsh Government’s Transforming Towns Programme.

Lead image: Year 8 pupils from Swansea’s Dylan Thomas Community School visit the city centre’s Palace Theatre project. (Image: Swansea Council)