Wrthi'n llwytho
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The Chair welcomed everyone to the meeting.
There were no declarations of interest received.
The minutes of the meeting held on 15 July 2026 were approved as a true and accurate record.
Members considered the report as circulated within the agenda pack. Members received a presentation outlining the proposed South West Wales Metro Vision and associated regional transport identity. Members were advised that the Metro Vision extended beyond transport provision alone and focused on improving access to employment, education, healthcare, retail, leisure opportunities and supporting a stronger regional economy. It was noted that the Regional Transport Plan provided a delivery programme to 2030, whilst the Metro Vision established a longer-term framework to 2050. The vision aimed to support the development of a connected, lower-carbon and more accessible transport network linking cities, towns and rural communities across South West Wales. The Committee heard that significant economic opportunities existed within the region, including the Celtic Freeport, City Deal investment programmes, regeneration activity, renewable energy projects and advanced manufacturing developments. Effective transport infrastructure would be essential to maximise these opportunities by enabling the efficient movement of people, goods and services. Members were informed that current transport challenges included inconsistent public transport provision, lengthy journey times, difficulties in interchanging between transport modes and issues of connectivity, particularly within rural communities. The vision sought to address these challenges by improving access to opportunities, promoting inclusion and providing confidence for future investment. It was emphasised that the Metro Vision would not replace the Regional Transport Plan but would provide a long-term strategic direction to inform future transport plans, delivery programmes and investment decisions. The vision considered the transport system required by 2050 and the steps needed now to help achieve that ambition. The rationale for a regional approach was outlined, with Members noting that transport planning should be integrated with wider decisions relating to economic development, investment and spatial planning. Consideration was also given to the fact that travel patterns for employment, education, healthcare, supply chains and tourism regularly cross local authority boundaries, requiring a collaborative regional response. The Committee noted that transport was a key enabler of economic growth, stronger communities and access to opportunity, rather than solely a means of moving people. The vision therefore sought to connect communities with employment, education, healthcare and investment opportunities whilst contributing towards lower-carbon outcomes. The presentation also included the proposed regional transport identity and branding. It was explained that the purpose of the branding was to create a recognisable public identity for the regional transport network that would be visible to residents, visitors and transport users. The identity was not intended to replace or rebrand the Corporate Joint Committee. The Committee heard that although the transport network would involve multiple organisations, operators and modes of travel, the objective was for users to experience the system as a single, integrated network. The identity would support customer information, promotion, investment discussions and the gradual development of a more coherent transport system. The proposed branding incorporated a single dominant colour supported by a complementary colour palette, providing consistency across websites, printed materials, maps, signage, transport hubs and other customer-facing communications. It was noted that the branding needed to be sufficiently flexible to be applied consistently by different organisations and across multiple transport modes, including rail, bus, active travel, interchange facilities, ticketing systems and demand-responsive transport services. A neutral and adaptable visual identity was therefore considered preferable to one associated with a specific transport mode. Members were advised that delivery of the vision would involve local authorities, Transport for Wales, transport operators and a range of partner organisations. The identity would need to operate alongside existing organisational branding and remain adaptable as transport services, technologies and networks evolved towards 2050. In concluding the presentation, officers acknowledged that branding would always involve an element of subjective judgement. However, the primary focus remained the ambition to create a more coherent, connected and integrated transport network for South West Wales that improved access to jobs, services and opportunities. Members welcomed the report and acknowledged the value of bringing together a coherent and aspirational vision for transport across the region. However, while supporting the overall principles and direction of travel, concern was expressed regarding the level of ambition contained within the document and the timescales proposed for delivering improvements. Members noted that South West Wales was in a favourable position as the first region scheduled to introduce bus franchising and considered that this presented an opportunity to pursue more ambitious transport improvements. It was highlighted that bus franchising alone would not automatically deliver significant enhancements to services and that the proposed base network offered limited improvement on existing arrangements. Members expressed concern that the document did not reference the aspirational bus network currently being developed collaboratively by Transport for Wales and regional partners. It was suggested that this omission should be rectified, given its relevance to the long-term transport vision. Discussion took place regarding the short-term priorities identified within the document. Whilst improvements such as bus stop upgrades, journey time enhancements and real-time passenger information were welcomed, Members considered that greater emphasis should be placed on improving service provision itself. Particular reference was made to the need for early morning, evening and weekend services to enable people to access employment and other opportunities. Members considered that there would be opportunities to secure such improvements before 2030 and that these should be reflected within the short and medium-term aspirations of the vision. It was further noted that extending service operating hours could provide relatively cost-effective benefits when compared with increasing service frequencies, and Members emphasised that transport accessibility was consistently identified as a barrier to reducing economic inactivity across the region. In relation to rail, Members acknowledged the inclusion of proposals to improve service frequency but suggested that the document could set out a more ambitious long-term vision. It was noted that rail enhancements required significant infrastructure investment and lengthy delivery timescales. Consequently, Members considered it important that the region articulated ambitious rail aspirations at an early stage in order to influence future infrastructure planning and investment decisions. Members noted the importance of joining up the aspirations of the report with the ongoing commitment to decarbonisation and ongoing work linked to the charging infrastructure within the region. There needs to be consideration as to how the strategies link and support each other moving forward. Members raised concerns regarding the affordability and deliverability of some proposed rail improvements, particularly given current passenger usage levels. Members highlighted the need to improve access to transport services, noting that infrequent bus services and limited active travel infrastructure continued to affect rural communities. It was emphasised that achieving the ambitions outlined in the vision would require significant investment, strong partnership working and realistic delivery planning. Whilst supportive of the principles of the document, Members acknowledged the challenges associated with securing the funding and infrastructure necessary to deliver the proposed improvements. Members raised concerns about the underfunding of projects by Welsh Government and lack of investment from Westminster and noted that funding was key to ensuring successful implementation of projects. Officers advised that the vision document was intended to promote South West Wales as a region for investment, highlighting development opportunities and the role of transport infrastructure in supporting economic growth. It was noted that the vision would help raise awareness of regional opportunities and strengthen the case for future transport investment. Members were also informed that the document was being progressed ahead of forthcoming rail investment discussions and funding reviews, with the aim of maximising opportunities to secure additional investment for the region. Members discussed the proposed carbon reduction targets and the ambition to increase public transport usage whilst reducing reliance on private vehicles. It was acknowledged that achieving behavioural change would be challenging, particularly within rural communities where car dependency remained high and alternative transport options were limited. Officers highlighted ongoing initiatives to encourage sustainable travel, including car clubs, demand-responsive transport schemes and behaviour change pilots. However, it was noted that improved public transport provision, particularly bus services, would be essential to support modal shift. Members were advised that funding constraints continued to limit opportunities to deliver a more ambitious transport network. Members highlighted that substantial public investment in transport infrastructure had been achieved elsewhere in Wales and noted that similar long-term investment could help deliver the ambitions set out in the vision. It was emphasised that transport infrastructure projects should be viewed as long-term capital investments that provide lasting benefits for future generations. Members also stressed the importance of recognising the relationship between investment and passenger demand, noting that improved services and increased frequency can encourage greater public transport use. It was suggested that ambitious investment in transport infrastructure and services would be necessary to increase patronage and support the long-term success of the regional transport network. Members highlighted the need to prioritise bus services, noting that reductions in routes are affecting both rural and urban communities and making travel increasingly difficult. Concerns were raised about the loss of services due to a lack of economic viability. Members supported greater use of the Heart of Wales Line and suggested exploring opportunities to improve connectivity across the valleys and to Ammanford. It was also proposed that the Carmarthen to Aberystwyth rail link be reinstated to strengthen connections between North and South Wales and encourage a shift away from road travel. Members further suggested expanding the use of rail stops and stations to improve accessibility and make rail travel more convenient. While active travel initiatives were welcomed, it was noted that they may be less practical for older residents and should not be relied upon as the sole transport solution. Members noted that while transport challenges vary across the region, bus service frequency remains a significant issue in urban areas. Support was expressed for improved daytime, evening and night-time rail services, with members emphasising the importance of strengthening rail connectivity, including valley links. It was recognised that enhanced rail provision would encourage greater public use, contribute to carbon reduction objectives, and help reduce traffic on the roads. Members also highlighted the need to increase the use of rail freight as part of a wider sustainable transport strategy. It was agreed that the document should place greater emphasis on investment in transport infrastructure and services, with clear timescales and delivery dates identified to ensure timely implementation. Following scrutiny, the item was supported to the South West Wales Corporate Joint Committee.
Members considered the report as circulated within the agenda pack. Members were advised of the region’s ambition to develop a strong pipeline of deliverable energy projects that support both decarbonisation and economic growth. The Committee received details of a proposal to utilise £120,000 of approved feasibility funding, matched by an additional £120,000 from Welsh Government, to explore opportunities for decarbonising heating systems in schools currently reliant on oil or liquid gas. It was noted that the Regional Energy Team, working with local authority energy teams, had identified approximately 82 potential sites and would prioritise up to 24 sites for further assessment based on factors including energy costs, condition of existing systems and future viability. An application to the Welsh Government Design Development Grant was due to be submitted by the end of September. Members were informed that the programme would help establish a delivery pipeline of capital projects, enabling the region to secure future investment opportunities. The anticipated benefits included reduced carbon emissions, lower and more stable energy costs, improved air quality, support for local supply chains, and progress towards local authority net zero commitments. Members welcomed the proposed programme and highlighted the potential wider benefits of retrofit projects, noting that investment in upgrading existing school buildings could, where appropriate, avoid the need for demolition and rebuilding, delivering additional long-term carbon savings. While acknowledging that factors such as school amalgamations may limit opportunities in some cases, members suggested that the potential carbon benefits of retaining and improving existing buildings should be considered as part of project assessments. Members sought assurance regarding the capacity of local authority energy teams to deliver the programme. It was confirmed that independent expertise would be commissioned to undertake the required energy assessments, providing additional capacity and support to local authority teams. Members were advised that this approach would enable the development of a pipeline of capital-ready projects, ensuring the region is better positioned to secure future funding opportunities. Assurance was provided that local authority energy teams were fully supportive of the programme and had confirmed their capacity to participate. Following scrutiny, the recommendation was supported to South West Wales Corporate Joint Committee.
Members considered the report as circulated within the agenda pack. Members received a presentation on the Economic Appraisal Report for the Innovation Matrix building at SA1, funded through Swansea University and the City Deal programme. It was noted that the building forms part of the wider SA1 development, alongside the IQ and Forum buildings, and contributes to the growth of the Digital District and the University’s long-term development ambitions. Members were advised that the Innovation Matrix had been fully operational since May 2025 and had achieved full occupancy. The first-year economic impact assessment estimated that the facility supported 145 jobs and generated £6.3 million in economic impact, with the potential to achieve the longer-term City Deal targets of 202 jobs and £62.4 million in economic value. It was emphasised that continued active management and further development of the wider SA1 ecosystem would be required to realise these benefits. The Committee noted that the building had become more than a commercial facility, acting as a hub for collaboration between businesses, academia, researchers and entrepreneurs. Significant educational benefits had been delivered, including student engagement, teaching provision, work placements, skills development and direct collaboration with industry. Members were informed that the facility supports the development of graduate talent pipelines aligned to regional economic needs. The economic appraisal concluded that strong foundations had been established and identified opportunities for further growth, including enhanced support for enterprise, start-up businesses and innovation. It was noted that the Innovation Matrix would continue to play a central role in the University’s academic, skills and economic development activities and serve as a catalyst for further investment and development within the SA1 area. Members welcomed the Innovation Matrix project and sought clarification on measures in place to encourage sustainable travel for students and employees, including the availability of parking and initiatives to promote the use of public transport. Members also requested further information on the types of employment opportunities expected to arise from the project, noting the importance of ensuring that graduates are able to access meaningful employment opportunities within the region. It was noted that University of Wales Trinity Saint David promotes sustainable travel through its Green Transport Plan and encourages students not to bring cars to campus. While current parking provision at the SA1 site is sufficient, members were advised that parking capacity may become a challenge as future development progresses. It was further noted that improvements to transport infrastructure and bus connectivity within the wider SA1 area would support increased use of public transport. In response to questions regarding employment outcomes, members were informed that businesses occupying the Innovation Matrix are required to support student development through measures such as work placements, guest lecturing and course design. This approach is intended to create clear pathways from education into employment, enabling graduates to secure opportunities with tenant businesses while supporting business growth and skills development within the region. A member queried the reasons why some projected business case outcomes had not yet been achieved and sought assurance that the anticipated benefits remained deliverable, as well as any lessons that could be applied to future projects. In response, members were advised that the Innovation Matrix was currently performing slightly below initial projections; however, the economic appraisal identified clear recommendations to address this and support future growth. It was emphasised that the projected benefits remained achievable, although not guaranteed, and would require continued investment, active management and implementation of the appraisal’s recommendations. Members were informed that progress would be monitored through ongoing economic analysis and reported through City Deal governance arrangements to ensure the project remains on track to deliver its intended outcomes. Members considered the evaluation report on the Innovation Matrix following its first full year of operation. It was noted that the report provides a robust baseline assessment, accepted by the Joint Committee and PMO, against which future performance can be measured. Discussion highlighted that the success of the Matrix should be viewed as part of a wider innovation ecosystem rather than solely as a building. Members noted the importance of business incubation, university support, transport connectivity, external investment, and partnership working between academia, business and government to support business growth, job creation and economic development across the region. It was acknowledged that, while the evaluation has been undertaken at an early stage, it establishes a valuable baseline that will enable future progress and benefits realisation to be monitored and, where necessary, corrective action to be taken. In response to questions regarding the impact of investment in Swansea on other university sites, it was explained that the student demographics and educational offer in Swansea and Carmarthen are distinct. It was therefore considered that the university could continue to support growth at both locations through appropriately differentiated provision. Following scrutiny the report was noted.
Members considered the report as circulated within the agenda pack. Members received the Annual Report for the 2025/26 financial year, noting that this was the fifth annual report produced for the Swansea Bay City Deal. The report provides a summary of the programme’s achievements, impact, financial performance, key milestones, case studies, risk management, lessons learned and future priorities. It was reported that the annual report is informed by scrutiny reports, quarterly monitoring, stakeholder engagement, project updates and case studies, and includes interactive links and QR codes providing access to further information. Members noted that the programme has now passed the midpoint of its 15-year delivery plan. Of the 39 projects within the portfolio, eight have been completed, nineteen are in construction or delivery, and twelve remain in the pre-delivery stage. Members were advised that completed floor space across the portfolio now exceeds 100,000 square metres, including more than 20,000 square metres delivered during the last year. Private sector investment had increased significantly during the reporting period, rising by over £100 million to a cumulative total of £233.6 million. It was further noted that at least 260 contracts, valued at more than £143 million, had been awarded to Welsh-based companies. The Committee noted that approximately 1,100 full-time equivalent jobs have been created through the programme to date and that apprenticeship opportunities have increased substantially, with around 2,500 opportunities now recorded across the portfolio. Reference was made to the interrelated nature of project delivery and the benefits arising from key infrastructure investments, business tenancy growth and skills and talent initiatives. Members noted that the Innovation Matrix had reached full occupancy and that a number of projects had received industry recognition and awards. It was reported that the English-language version of the Annual Report had been approved by the Joint Committee and that the Welsh translation was being finalised prior to publication on the City Deal website and circulation to stakeholders. Members sought clarification regarding the £7 million Supply Chain Fund and the reasons for its current rescoping. It was explained that the original funding call, launched approximately 18 months ago, did not generate applications that sufficiently met the required criteria. At that time, the fund was intended to support innovative technologies and solutions that could be integrated into homes as part of the Homes as Power Stations programme. However, most applications focused on maintenance, installation and skills development activities rather than the innovation objectives of the fund. Members were advised that, following consultation with the Private Sector Advisory Board, the fund criteria and application process had been revised to better reflect market demand and opportunities within the sector. The revised funding call has now been prepared and is ready for launch. It was further reported that a decision had been taken to delay the launch until after the summer period to maximise engagement and awareness. The Committee noted that communications and promotional materials had been prepared and that regional stakeholders, including local authority economic development teams, Business Wales and the Private Sector Advisory Board, would support the promotion of the fund to encourage applications. Members were also advised that details of the revised funding call would be circulated to Scrutiny Committee members once formally launched. Members sought clarification on whether the revised Supply Chain Fund would be refocused to support maintenance and servicing skills, particularly in relation to heat pump technology, where skill shortages have been identified. It was confirmed that the fund criteria had been revised to better reflect market demand and that support for maintenance, installation and associated higher-skilled employment opportunities would form part of the refocused approach. Members welcomed the change, noting the significant demand for these skills and the associated job creation potential. Members noted the significant achievements delivered through the programme, including the creation of over 1,000 jobs and a substantial number of apprenticeships. It was recognised that investment in apprenticeships is particularly important given wider industry concerns regarding the need for increased spending on skills development within the construction sector. A query was raised regarding the hydrogen generation project at Baglan, specifically the progress of the electrolysis-based system, the anticipated timescale for hydrogen production, and the organisations leading and funding the initiative. In response, it was explained that the Hydrogen Centre project had received £1 million of funding for the procurement of an electrolyser, which has now been purchased and is awaiting installation and calibration. Members were advised that the centre already works alongside other electrolysers and in partnership with Protium in Margam, which is producing hydrogen within the region. Reference was also made to Hippo Hydrogen, based at Bay Studios on Fabian Way, which operates a hydrogen fuelling station and electrolyser and is working with Wales and West Utilities on hydrogen vehicle pilot schemes. It was noted that hydrogen presents a significant opportunity for the region, with strong engagement from local authorities, partner organisations and businesses. Installation of the new electrolyser is expected in the coming weeks and months, although a definitive timescale for completion is not yet available. Members also sought clarification on whether increases in land and property values form part of the programme's benefits realisation framework, particularly in relation to major developments such as SA1, the Arena and Kingsway. It was confirmed that property value can be considered a benefit within individual project business cases, alongside measures such as salary uplift, but it is not a universal measure applied across the entire portfolio. While wider economic analysis could assess such impacts, this is not a mandatory requirement within the overall benefits realisation framework. Further clarification was requested regarding the process for validating job creation figures. Members were informed that the benefits dashboard provides a project-by-project breakdown of jobs created, but only includes figures once they have been fully evidenced and verified. It was acknowledged that the actual number of jobs created is likely to exceed the reported figure of 1,089; however, additional jobs will only be included in the dashboard once validation has been completed. A request was made, through the Chair, for the Scrutiny Board to undertake a future visit to the Hydrogen Centre once the electrolyser has been installed and is operational. Members considered such a visit would be beneficial given the strategic importance of hydrogen technology and its future economic potential. It was also suggested that any visit could include the adjacent Bay Technology Centre to provide members with a broader understanding of the related innovation and development activity taking place in the area. The Chair acknowledged the request for a future visit to the Hydrogen Centre and noted the importance of understanding how public investment is supporting the development of hydrogen technology. Reference was made to a previous discussion in which it had been confirmed that hydrogen projects currently rely on some form of subsidy. Members agreed that a site visit would provide valuable insight into how the investment is being utilised, the progress being made, and the potential benefits arising from the project. A further question was raised regarding the relationship between the Pembroke Dock Marine project and the Celtic Freeport initiative. Members expressed the importance of avoiding duplication of effort and ensuring that limited resources are used effectively. Clarification was sought on whether the two initiatives are working collaboratively and in a complementary manner. In response, it was confirmed that the projects are complementary rather than duplicative. It was explained that the Pembroke Dock Marine project forms part of a broader programme of economic and low-carbon development activity across the region, with links to initiatives such as Support Innovation and Low Carbon Growth. The dock infrastructure and test and deployment facilities developed through the project were described as important precursor investments that contributed to the establishment of the Celtic Freeport. Members were advised that the various strands of activity are aligned and work together to support wider regional objectives. Further explanation was provided regarding the projected creation of 1,881 jobs associated with the Pembroke Dock Marine project. It was noted that robust processes are in place to ensure that jobs can be directly attributed and qualified against specific project outcomes. While the project is expected to act as a catalyst for wider developments, including the Celtic Freeport, care is being taken to accurately evidence employment impacts. It was also highlighted that the benefits extend beyond Pembroke Dock itself, contributing to the wider Welsh marine technology sector and supporting opportunities in floating offshore wind, tidal energy and related industries. Members welcomed the clarification and reiterated the importance of maintaining a coordinated approach across regional initiatives. It was recognised that the area is entering an exciting period of economic development, and members expressed their desire to see the projected employment opportunities delivered successfully. The importance of workforce training and skills development in supporting this growth was also emphasised. A member queried whether the Bridge Innovation Centre in Pembrokeshire had been considered for investment to enhance training facilities and support entrepreneurial activity, noting its established role within the county. In response, it was explained that the Skills and Talent Programme works closely with a range of partners, particularly colleges and training providers across the region. It was noted that previous pilot initiatives linked to these partnerships had been highly successful. While there was an awareness of the activities undertaken at the Bridge Innovation Centre, officers were unable to provide detailed information on its current involvement and committed to seeking clarification and reporting back. The Chair then referred to the update on Phase 2 of the Canolfan S4C Yr Egin project, highlighting the statement within the annual report that changes to the university's senior leadership team had resulted in a review of the project to ensure that any future capital investment aligned with wider institutional financial priorities. Concern was expressed regarding the pause in progressing the project and whether this indicated a reduction in the university’s commitment to development in Carmarthen. In response, officers advised that the project remains under review and that a number of potential design options have been considered. However, no preferred solution has yet been publicly announced. Members were informed that discussions between Carmarthenshire County Council and the University of Wales Trinity Saint David remain ongoing and that it is anticipated a proposed design solution for Phase 2 will be brought forward during the current financial year. Once further details are available, these will be presented through the established governance arrangements, including scrutiny. Following scrutiny, the report was noted.
Members considerd the report as circulated within the agenda pack. Officers presented an overview of portfolio-level performance, drawing members’ attention to the Benefits Realisation Dashboard. Members were advised that the portfolio currently contains 118 identified benefits, of which nine have been completed, 76 are on track, 29 are categorised as at risk and four are off track. It was explained that all benefits continue to be actively monitored, including those identified as at risk or off track. Officers noted that benefits are subject to change over time, with additional benefits occasionally emerging as unintended positive outcomes, while others may be removed where they can no longer be appropriately attributed to programme activity. An update was provided on employment outcomes across the portfolio. A total of 1,089 jobs had been formally recorded, representing validated employment created through City Deal interventions. Members were informed that the figure had increased slightly during the reporting period, largely due to activity associated with the National Institute for Sports and Health. It was further noted that job creation is being supported not only through capital projects but also through skills and talent programmes, where individuals receive training and upskilling support before securing employment with local businesses. These employment outcomes are therefore recognised as a direct consequence of programme interventions. Members were advised that approximately 49 per cent of the portfolio’s anticipated investment had been achieved by Quarter 1. Officers also referred to the economic impact measures contained within the dashboard, explaining that economic benefits are only recorded once they have been independently evaluated and verified. It was noted that initial assessments indicate that the MATRIX facility could generate approximately £6 million of economic impact during its first year of operation, with similar benefits potentially continuing in future years, although such impacts would only be formally reported once they had been evidenced and validated. The report highlighted five portfolio risks currently assessed as red. These related to staff turnover within the Programme Management Office, increasing construction costs, the risk of projects and programmes not delivering all outputs and outcomes identified within approved business cases, challenges associated with Net Zero targets, and the implications of nitrate regulations. Members were informed that the staffing risk had recently been escalated from amber to red following a review of Programme Management Office resources. Officers also outlined a number of current portfolio issues. It was explained that, unlike risks, issues represent matters that have already materialised and require active management. Particular attention is given to monitoring financial variances, programme delivery milestones and the impact of rising construction costs. Members were advised that expenditure and delivery performance are reviewed on a quarterly basis to ensure that projects remain aligned with approved budgets and timescales. In relation to procurement activity, members noted progress at Pentre Awel, where procurement associated with the fit-out of business innovation and conferencing facilities had advanced and works were expected to commence on site during Quarter 4 of 2026. Additional procurements relating to leisure equipment and interior design had been completed and formally closed during the reporting period. Officers confirmed that no change requests or project notifications had been received during the quarter. Members were further advised that the Construction Impact Assessment continues to monitor 21 high-cost construction-related elements across the portfolio. Officers confirmed that no significant changes had been identified during the reporting period despite continuing cost pressures across the construction sector. A member sought clarification regarding the portfolio risk associated with Technical Advice Note (TAN) 15, recognising that it is a Welsh Government policy matter over which the programme has limited influence. Concern was expressed regarding how the risk is being managed, particularly given that the guidance may be subject to future review and amendment. In response, officers explained that an assessment had been undertaken to identify which projects within the portfolio could potentially be affected by TAN 15 requirements. It was noted that only a small number of projects were impacted, including Yr Egin Phase 2 and the Baglan Waterfront development. Members were advised that the principal mitigation measure is to maintain a watching brief on any changes to the guidance and to monitor the implications for affected projects. Officers explained that amendments to the guidance could affect the classification of land within flood risk areas and influence the types of development permitted, as well as the design requirements applied to new developments. While the issue had remained relatively quiet over the previous year, it was acknowledged that ongoing monitoring remained important so that any emerging changes could be identified and addressed at an early stage. Members noted that although the programme could not directly influence the policy, changes to TAN 15 can have significant cost implications for developments through revised design specifications and flood resilience requirements. It was also suggested that the risks associated with nitrate regulations may currently present a greater concern than TAN 15. Nevertheless, officers confirmed that both risks continue to be monitored closely. In conclusion, officers undertook to provide a further update on the TAN 15 position as part of the next quarterly reporting cycle to ensure members remain informed of any developments and potential impacts on portfolio projects. Officers provided a detailed update on progress across the Swansea Bay City Deal portfolio. Members were advised that there had been no change in the overall RAG (Red, Amber, Green) status ratings across the portfolio compared with the previous quarter, with projects continuing to be assessed against a range of performance and delivery criteria. In relation to the Supporting Innovation and Low Carbon Growth programme, members were informed that the Bay Technology Centre had reached 81% occupancy. The Centre now operates a virtual data link with the Hydrogen Centre, enabling real-time monitoring of electricity usage and supporting integrated energy management between the facilities. The Advanced Manufacturing Production Facility project was progressing, with consultants commissioned to develop industry engagement arrangements, an operational model and a detailed facility brief. An update was provided on the SWITCH project, which focuses on steel decarbonisation and works in partnership with Tata Steel. Construction works were progressing well, with piling completed and foundation and concrete works substantially advanced. Members were advised that steel framework installation was expected to commence shortly and that visible progress would continue on site. Officers reported that the Property Development Fund had delivered 48 verified jobs to date and highlighted the importance of also recognising safeguarded employment. Members were informed that several projects were not only creating new jobs but helping existing businesses remain within the region by providing suitable infrastructure and accommodation. Consideration would be given to monitoring safeguarded jobs more formally in future reporting. Progress was also reported on subsequent rounds of the Property Development Fund, with projects continuing to move through the application process. The Hydrogen Stimulus Project was noted as continuing to progress, with installation and integration of the electrolyser under way. Officers reiterated their commitment to provide a further update on implementation timescales and to explore the possibility of arranging a future site visit for members. Members received a positive update on Pentre Awel. Hywel Dda University Health Board had now taken occupation of the education space within Block B and was delivering a range of community healthcare services from the facility, including phlebotomy, liver clinics, intravenous therapy clinics and cardiac rehabilitation. The site was also temporarily accommodating TriTech research activities. Members were advised that a wide range of community events, workshops and wellbeing sessions were taking place, demonstrating the facility’s growing role as a community hub. It was further reported that contractors were progressing internal fit-out works and were on course to exceed their community benefits commitments. An update was provided on the Digital Infrastructure programme. Following approval of a preferred delivery option by the Joint Committee, arrangements had been put in place to extend staffing resources and ensure continuity of delivery. Members noted the programme’s involvement in a range of initiatives, including 5G technology deployment and digital inclusion activity in partnership with telecommunications providers. Progress was also reported in relation to fibre infrastructure delivery across the region. In respect of the Waterfront development, members noted that negotiations with a preferred hotel developer had progressed, with heads of terms agreed in principle. Funding arrangements and due diligence processes remained ongoing. Members were also advised that office accommodation at 71/72 Kingsway had achieved occupancy levels in excess of 80%, with tenant fit-out works continuing. Officers reported that the MATRIX facility was now fully occupied. In addition, discussions continued between Swansea Council, the University of Wales Trinity Saint David and other partners regarding future delivery models for the Innovation Precinct project, with further developments anticipated in the coming months. The Homes as Power Stations programme was reported to be progressing well. Preparations were under way for the launch of a £7 million supply chain fund, alongside a range of targeted initiatives supporting retrofit skills development. Members noted the success of the demonstration house project, which showcased innovative low-carbon technologies and provided opportunities for education and training. Officers also highlighted developing international links with organisations in Japan aimed at supporting overseas businesses seeking entry into the UK market through South West Wales. The Pembroke Dock Marine programme continued to progress, with ongoing infrastructure developments, innovation projects and successful funding applications. Members were advised that marine energy technologies, including tidal energy deployment, continued to be supported through the programme. The remaining major infrastructure element, known as Lot 3, had been rescheduled to allow further consideration of future industry requirements linked to renewable energy opportunities. An update on the Skills and Talent programme confirmed that 39 pilot and apprenticeship projects had been approved, with 16 completed and the remainder progressing through delivery. Members noted the creation or continuation of 2,477 apprenticeship opportunities and the delivery of 41 jobs despite there being no formal job creation target attached to the programme. Officers emphasised the increasingly integrated role that skills interventions were playing across the wider portfolio. Finally, members received an update on the National Institute for Sport and Health. Site preparation and demolition works had been completed, with construction due to commence imminently. Members were also informed that 5G infrastructure associated with the Vodafone-funded project had been installed and was now supporting research and doctoral activities linked to the Institute’s development. In concluding the item, the Chair thanked officers for the comprehensive update and observed that the breadth and scale of activity across the portfolio demonstrated the significant contribution being made by the programme towards economic growth, innovation, skills development and regional regeneration. Following scrutiny, the report was noted.
The Forward Work Programme was noted.
There were no urgent items.
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