Swansea docks will be 'transformed' say planners

But whole offices and homes have been the main developments in the Welsh capital, the emphasis in Swansea is to be on new technology.

Over the next five years cash will be poured into transforming the disused Prince of Wales dock into a home for new high-tech firms.

The innovation village concept is driven by the WDA together with the University of Wales, Swansea, the local council, and Associated British Ports.

New jobs

The flagship element of the project - the �2m Technium centre - is already up and running.

Technium - which is managed by the university and linked to its centres of excellence - focuses on maximising the potential business research and development potential and creating new skilled jobs.

It is also hoped that the public sector commitment to the project will act as a catalyst for millions of pounds of private investment.

The Technium concept will be repeated around Wales. There are plans to develop other specialist business centres linked to academic research centres, specialising in key sectors of the economy.

The area has tremendous potential - it may currently be a rather neglected, forgotten part of Swansea but we are confident it will provide a vibrant working and living environment

Steven Piper, WDA

So far, 23 acres of land have been purchased as well as three listed buildings.

They include a wooden Norwegian church, a red brick ice factory and a "J shed" that overlooks the dock.

These disused buildings from Swansea's maritime past are set to play a major role in the docks regeneration.

Steven Piper is the WDA's area development manager for Swansea, said they would greatly enhance the overall appearance.

Sustainable village

"These old buildings will form an integral part of the new innovation village and their character will add an exciting new dimension to the proposed development," he said.

"The area has tremendous potential. It may currently be a rather neglected, forgotten part of Swansea but we are confident it will provide a vibrant working and living environment.

"Our aim is to create a truly sustainable village. The location is unrivalled - it is adjacent to the city centre, has both a riverside and dockside setting, yet is close to the motorway."