The former central police station on Orchard Street has been transformed by regeneration specialists Urban Foundry into a vibrant space offering workspaces, private offices, and event venues.
The project, supported by Shared Prosperity Fund investment allocated by Swansea Council, was officially opened at a special event attended by local businesses, community organisations and civic leaders.
From pop‑up to permanent
Urban HQ began life as a pop‑up café through Urban Foundry’s Pop‑Up Wales initiative, which has delivered almost 100 temporary spaces across South Wales. It has now evolved into a permanent home for values‑driven enterprises, with refurbished rooms including The Idris Room, The Courtroom and The Courtyard Garden.
The hub already houses several creative businesses and hosts events ranging from conferences and training sessions to weddings and community activities. Its café, run by a local chef, has quickly become a popular meeting place serving locally sourced food.
‘A place where ideas can grow’
Cllr Rob Stewart, Leader of Swansea Council, who officially opened the venue, praised the project:
“Urban HQ is about creating opportunities for businesses and ideas to grow. It gives people the space and the support they need to develop their businesses, grow their ideas, and make Swansea thrive.”
Naomi Webborn, Head of Marketing at Dawsons Estate Agents, described the space as capturing “everything that makes our city special: collaboration, creativity, and community.”
Swansea‑born singer‑songwriter and Grand Ambition Co‑Director Steve Balsamo added:
“Spaces like this are essential for a creative city like Swansea, with its deep arts and cultural roots.”
Dr Ben Reynolds, Founding Director of Urban Foundry, said the project was the culmination of years of testing and learning through initiatives such as Pop‑Up Wales:
“We’ve shown that meanwhile spaces can become long‑term catalysts for regeneration. Thanks to Swansea Council’s support, we’ve been able to bring a landmark building back to life and create a place where good ideas and good people can grow together.”
Urban HQ is now open for workspace enquiries, café visitors and event bookings.
