Developers Hammerson and Urban Splash have been chosen to develop four key sites in Swansea, Wales, as part of a £1bn city centre facelift.

The Quadrant and St David’s shopping centre are included in the revamp. The master plan includes 600,000 sq ft of additional retail space, 1,000 homes and new leisure, office, hotel and conference facilities. Chris Holley, Swansea Council leader, said: “This is probably the most significant announcement during the past 50 years for Swansea.”

Over the next 18 months both companies will work with the council and Welsh Assembly Government to secure the necessary planning consents.

Meanwhile a £22m regeneration scheme for Swansea’s High Street has been unveiled.

It would see an ‘urban village’ of shops and affordable housing midway between the railway station and Castle Square. Plans are going out for consultation later this week.

Geoff Pettifor, Swansea Housing Association’s director of development, said: “Our proposals include new-look retail frontage for high quality commercial space, offices and 175 affordable homes with car parking. It will breathe fresh life into this part of the High Street.”