The Welsh Government has issued notice that would require Swansea Watersports to vacate the site
Swansea Watersports is calling for the Welsh Government to ‘urgently reconsider’ the decision(Image: Swansea Watersports)
A much-loved and nationally recognised watersports centre is facing forced closure from its base at the Prince of Wales Dock after 13 years. Swansea Watersports has provided sailing, kayaking, windsurfing, and other water activities to thousands of children and young people across Swansea and South Wales.
The Welsh Government, as the landlord of the dockside yard, has now issued notice that would require Swansea Watersports to vacate the site, effectively shutting down operations. If this happens, it would leave a 140-mile stretch of Welsh coastline between Cardiff and St David’s without a dedicated watersports centre offering this type of provision. Read here about the waterfront homes where people are facing rocketing service charges.
A spokesman for Swansea Watersports said: “This isn’t just about watersports — it’s about opportunity, education, and community. Never miss a Swansea story by signing up to our newsletter here
“For 13 years, we’ve worked with schools, youth services, and families to give children experiences they would otherwise never have.
“If we are forced to leave the Prince of Wales Dock, that door will close for thousands of young people now and in the future.”
Over the last decade, Swansea Watersports said it had taught thousands of children and young people from across Swansea and beyond, including those from deprived areas, where parts of the community fall within the most deprived 30% in Wales.
It said it had partnered with schools and youth services to ensure children from disadvantaged backgrounds could access the water safely, gaining confidence, skills, and qualifications.
Swansea Watersports is based at the Prince of Wales Dock, pictured(Image: Richard Swingler)
It has also hosted national competitions in sailing, windsurfing, and powerboating, bringing visitors, tourism, and recognition to Swansea.
Beyond sport, the centre has been considered a lifeline for many young people, offering “positive opportunities, developing skills, and promoting health and wellbeing” through outdoor activity.
The centre is calling on the Welsh Government to “urgently reconsider the decision”, and to work with Swansea Watersports to find a sustainable solution.
A spokesman for the Welsh Government said: “We have long supported a number of water-based activities and events at the Prince of Wales Dock, however, Swansea Watersports is located on land that is now required for a next phase of infrastructure works at SA1.
“While we are unable to offer an alternative site on the minimal landholdings we own at the estate, we continue to work with the company to see if there is any other undeveloped land that could be a suitable alternative.”