An historic amphitheatre which has gone largely unused for decades looks set to be transformed. Plans have been lodged by Swansea Council to erect a canopy over Swansea amphitheatre, located close to the LC, so that it can be used all year round.
Despite its popularity the frequency with which the amphitheatre was used reduced dramatically after the mid-1980s although it still continues to be used for informal gatherings. In August this year the space was used to host three-day film and music festival Amplitude, which marked something of a return for the venue. It was announced in 2023 that the structure was to get a £180,000 revamp courtesy of money from the Welsh Government. And now it appears there are plans to make more permanent use of the outdoor public event space. For the latest Swansea news sign up to our newsletter here.
Planning documents state: “The proposed canopy over the existing Swansea Amphitheatre is part of a regeneration programme for the area as a whole and specifically to improve the facilities and widen the appeal of use to interested parties. The development will offer the community a highly functional outdoor entertainment space to host live performances and events by sheltering users from poor weather conditions year-round. The intention is to encourage more frequent use of Swansea Amphitheatre to regenerate it as a vibrant cultural attraction.
“Built in the 1970s Swansea Amphitheatre is a concrete structure with 13 rows of tiered seating. Five separate staircases are built into the structure with handrails to support access to each seating level. The amphitheatre has no manufactured or natural overhead coverage. The site is owned and maintained by Swansea Council. The concrete structure is in good condition without damage.”
Documents add the scope of the development will provide “a gross external canopy sail roof of 482.58 square metres over the existing amphitheatre” which would cover the performer space and majority of the viewing gallery. Swansea Council’s planning department will now consider the application. Join our WhatsApp news community here for the latest breaking news. You will receive updates from us daily.