Ospreys Rugby has secured planning approval for its proposed redevelopment of St Helen’s Sports Ground, confirming that construction work is expected to begin in September following the conclusion of Swansea Cricket Club’s season.
The decision represents a key moment in the club’s long-term ambitions to create a permanent home in Swansea and re-establish its regional identity. The approved scheme will transform the Victorian-era venue into a state-of-the-art hub for elite and community rugby, with upgraded spectator and player facilities designed to support year-round use.
Lance Bradley, CEO of Ospreys Rugby, said:
“This is an incredibly exciting moment and a vital step in building the future of the Ospreys and rugby across our region. I’m immensely proud of the work that’s brought us here and grateful to our partners for their dedication and commitment to this project. We’re also very appreciative of the ongoing support from Swansea Council for the redevelopment of this iconic ground.”
Plans for the ground include a full-size World Rugby compliant 4G pitch, three new stands and a covered terrace, alongside matchday fan zones and a purpose-built training complex to be completed in a second phase. The redevelopment is designed to honour the site’s rich sporting legacy while modernising infrastructure to meet current professional standards.
The club is expected to relocate permanently to St Helen’s in December 2025, following the 2024–25 season at the Swansea.com Stadium.
Impact on other sporting tenants
The approved plans will also see Swansea RFC temporarily relocate to Dunvant RFC’s Broadacre ground for the start of the 2025–26 Super Rygbi Cymru season. The club is expected to return to St Helen’s in time for its traditional derby fixture against Aberavon in late December.
Meanwhile, Swansea Cricket Club, a fixture at the ground since 1875, will vacate the site after the 2025 season. The club is currently working with local stakeholders to identify a suitable new location.
The redevelopment aligns with Swansea Council’s broader ambition to establish a sports science park, with links to Swansea University’s research expertise and a growing regional focus on health and performance innovation.
