Swansea Council’s Cabinet will consider the findings on 18 September, with officers recommending the amalgamation goes ahead from the start of the 2026/27 academic year.
The statutory consultation, which ran earlier this year, invited views from parents, staff, governors, pupils and the wider community. According to the council’s report, most respondents supported the merger, highlighting the potential for better facilities, more efficient use of resources and greater opportunities for pupils and staff.
However, the process also drew objections. Some parents raised concerns about longer journeys for families living closer to Portmead, the loss of a school with deep community roots, and uncertainty over the future of the Portmead site. The council says these issues will be addressed through transition planning, further engagement and a separate decision on the site’s future use.
Schools to remain open until new building is ready
While the amalgamation would bring both schools under one headteacher and governing body from 2026, both existing sites would continue to operate for several years. Pupils would remain in their current buildings until a brand‑new, purpose‑built school is completed — currently expected to open in 2031.
The new school, planned near the existing Blaenymaes Primary site, would be large enough to accommodate all children in the community and include part‑time nursery and Flying Start provision, as well as a Specialist Teaching Facility for pupils needing additional support. It would also feature improved outdoor areas for play, learning and sport.
Why the merger is being proposed
Both Blaenymaes and Portmead primaries have seen a steady decline in pupil numbers, with surplus places now well above Welsh Government guidelines. The Blaenymaes site has the capacity to accommodate all pupils from both schools, and the council argues that operating from one school entity will improve the learning environment, support curriculum delivery and make better use of public funds.
The report stresses the proposal is “not a reflection on the quality of teaching or leadership” at either school, but a response to demographic change and the need to ensure “the right number of school places, of the right type, in the right locations” across Swansea.
Next steps
If Cabinet approves the recommendation, the council will publish a statutory notice confirming its intention to amalgamate. This will trigger a 28‑day period for formal objections before a final decision is made.
Should the plan proceed, the merged school would open in September 2026, with both existing sites continuing to operate until the new building is ready.
