Woolies reborn
Commissioned by Powell Dobson architects, the aerial video shows the former Woolworths site transformed into the Biophilic Living Biome, a development led by Hacer Developments in partnership with housing group Pobl.
The footage captures the adjoining 13‑storey tower climbing above the city centre. While the structure is visibly taking shape, the green planting and rooftop gardens promised as part of the scheme are yet to be installed.
A UK first
The project has been described as the UK’s first “living building,” designed to blend homes, workplaces and nature in the heart of Swansea. Once complete, it will accommodate up to 500 people through the jobs and apartments it creates.
Earlier this week, Swansea Bay News reported on new grant funding pledged to support the commercial elements of the development, part of wider investment in Welsh town and city centres.
Greenhouse in the sky
Due for completion in the first half of 2026, the scheme will feature a four‑storey urban greenhouse, rooftop gardens, wildflower borders and green spaces. Apartments managed by Pobl will sit alongside an education facility, retail units and around 32,000 square feet of commercial floor space.
The building will also incorporate a bio‑solar roof, ambient loop heating and sustainable drainage systems, powered by solar energy and an air source heat system.
Wider regeneration
The ‘living building’ is part of a wider programme worth more than £1bn that is reshaping Swansea city centre. Other projects include the nearby office scheme at 71/72 Kingsway, developed by Swansea Council and part‑funded by the Swansea Bay City Deal, which is already 80% let.
Funding
The Biophilic Living Biome is being funded by a mix of private sector investment, the Welsh Government’s Innovative Housing Programme, Pobl and the Development Bank of Wales.
