The Scrutiny Performance Panel - Service Improvement, Regeneration and Finance met on Tuesday 12 March 2024. The meeting focused on regeneration projects and corporate priorities, with discussions on the progress of the 71-72 Kingsway development and achievements in economic regeneration. An Audit Wales report on building safety was deferred to a later meeting.

Audit Wales Report - Cracks in the Foundations Building Safety in Wales

This item was deferred to the next meeting of the panel due to ongoing personnel issues within the relevant department. Councillor Chris Holley OBE, Chair of the panel, stated that the deferral was necessary to ensure that personnel matters could be resolved before discussing the report in public. Councillor Linda James expressed concern that deferring the item could lead to significant delays, but was assured by the Chair that it would be addressed at the next meeting. The report, published by Audit Wales, highlights concerns about the prioritisation, planning, decision-making, and resources allocated to Building Control services across Wales, raising fears that the new Building Safety Act legislation may not be implemented effectively.

Achievement against Corporate Priorities / Objectives / Policy Commitments for Development and Regeneration

Councillor Robert Francis-Davies, Cabinet Member for Investment, Regeneration, Events & Tourism, and Paul Relf, Strategic Economic Regeneration Manager, presented an overview of the achievements within the planning and city regeneration departments. The report detailed progress on the Regional Economic Delivery Plan, supported by funding from the UK Shared Prosperity Fund and the Levelling Up programme. Several strategic grant schemes are in place to support the private and third sectors, with city centre initiatives including town centre loans and placemaking grants.

Discussions covered the development of a new hotel, likely to be a four-star or higher-end establishment, situated between the Arena and the LC. Plans are also underway for placemaking strategies in seven district centres outside the city centre, which will be progressed as funding and capacity allow. Job creation is being driven through start-up and business development grants, alongside UK Shared Prosperity funding, with a focus on job retention and attracting new businesses.

The panel raised questions regarding the former Debenhams site, Castle Square, the Dragon Hotel, the Dolphin Hotel, the Civic Centre, and Copr Bay. Councillor Jeff Jones inquired about the progress on finding a tenant for the Debenhams unit and the associated holding costs. Councillor Lynda James asked about the status of the Dolphin Hotel, and Councillor Michael Locke questioned the star rating envisaged for the new hotel. Councillor Will Thomas enquired about the progress on the Castle Square Gardens project.

Regeneration Project(s) Update 71-72 The Kingsway

Councillor Robert Francis-Davies and Katy Evans, City Centre Team Leader, provided an update on the 71-72 Kingsway development. It was noted that practical completion of the site has been slightly delayed, with a revised target of the end of March. Discussions with potential tenants are ongoing, and it is anticipated that the building will be fully let within a reasonable timeframe, though not necessarily immediately upon practical completion. The project has benefited from £13.7 million in City Deal funding.

The panel sought clarification on the connection to Picton Arcade, the provision of bicycle storage, the overall demand for office space in the city centre, marketing strategies, and the specifics of the City Deal funding. Councillor Chris Evans specifically asked about the provision of secure and dry bicycle storage. Councillor Mike White questioned the marketing approach for the city's offerings, including local facilities and the Gower coast.

The development is set to provide up to 115,000 sq ft of Grade A office accommodation and retail space, designed as a digitally-enabled and flexible workspace. It will also include event, meeting, and communal spaces, with public realm improvements in the former Picton Yard to enhance pedestrian links. The project aims to achieve WiredScore Platinum certification for digital connectivity and BREEAM Excellent for sustainability. The development has also attracted significant private sector investment, including the Biophilic building project.

The meeting concluded with a note on the work plan, with an amendment to include the deferred Audit Wales report on the agenda for the next meeting.