SWANSEA shoppers have helped select a striking new design for Swansea Market’s external entrances.
Market traders and other key stakeholders were also asked for their views on the improvement plan as Swansea Council held a public consultation.
All thoughts helped finalise plans as the Oxford Street, Union Street and Whitewalls entrances are refreshed and modernised this year.
The copper-coloured design reflects Swansea’s industrial heritage; its semi-circular shape hints at the market’s logo and huge domed roof.
Words used by voters to describe the design included: Inviting, majestic, striking, sleek, elegant, clean and modern.
They like that it includes the words Swansea and Abertawe – making it clear that it plays a key role in its community.
Council cabinet member and joint deputy leader David Hopkins said: “I thank everybody who took part in our consultation through February and into March.
“Hundreds of people voted and many commented on social media – and the winning design shone through as the overwhelming favourite.
“It’ll help ensure a bright future for a great location; we plan smarter, more visible and vibrant entrances to attract customers and help traders continue to deliver a great service.
“We also want this work to improve security and deter anti-social behaviour and vandalism.”
Recent popular improvements at the venue – judged Britain’s Best Large Indoor Market in 2024 – have included public toilets and a new meeting area and social space, The Market Garden.
The council, working with traders and Wales-based consultants Tangent Partnership, created three concept options for the design of the new look of the entrances in Whitewalls, Oxford Street and Union Street.
There were a number of ways that everybody – including those with a disability- could have their say, including an online survey, a Have Your Say area in the market and face to face chats with the project team.
In the public vote, more than six in 10 votes went to the most popular concept.
The selected design – including a number of new standard entrance features such as new lighting, flooring, signs and security – will now go through the formal planning process.
Other public thoughts about the market and its entrances are being considered.
Initial work on the new entrances has included the removal of previous canopies and maintenance of the mast structures.
It’s planned that remaining work on the new entrances will be carried out this year. The council plans for disruption to be minimised.
Project updates will be provided on the Swansea Indoor Market website.
