Swansea’s multi-million pound bus station will be open to passengers in time for Christmas.
The redeveloped transport hub will welcome its first passengers on December 6 and will provide a modern and welcoming gateway to the city for workers, visitors and shoppers.
Cllr Chris Holley, Leader of Swansea Council, said: “I’m delighted for everyone in the city that we’ll shortly have a city centre bus station that we can all be proud of.
“The new bus station is a modern and vibrant gateway to the city that will help attract more visitors and investment to the city.
“I’m sure everyone, particularly our retail businesses and shoppers, will be pleased that the Council has delivered on its commitment to open the new bus station in time for Christmas as this will give everyone a seasonal boost.
“The new bus station will make a huge difference to the city centre and transport links in the region.
“The investment in the Metro route and the opening of the new bus station demonstrates the Council’s commitment to providing modern and convenient public transport and making Swansea a destination for everyone.
“I’d like to thank bus passengers, operators and businesses in the city for their patience during the redevelopment of the bus station. When they use the modern facilities I’m sure they will agree it has been worth it.”
City centre businesses have welcomed the news of the opening and say it will provide a real boost to city centre retailers in the run-up to Christmas.
The opening will be carried out in a phased approach with the main passenger waiting area completed and open for business along with full access for buses. Other aspects of the bus station including the retail units, Shopmobility and toilet facilities will open at a later date.
The new station will house 20 bus bays, three coach stands, a modern passenger waiting area, ticketing services and Shopmobility facilities.
The opening of the bus station will pave the way for the removal of the existing network of temporary bus stops within the city centre.
The project has received significant funding from the Welsh Assembly Government and the Wales European Funding Office.
