Swansea Marina

After many years of industrial decline in the Lower Swansea valley, the South Dock of the Swansea Docks complex finally closed in 1969, leaving the area as an industrial wasteland which was sold to the council.

By 1975, a new planning strategy had been prepared which identified social and economic policy objectives with a new regeneration programme.

More efficient modern lock gates were fitted, along with a new swing bridge, and the quaysides were paved to create a public walkway around the dockside.

It was not until 1992 that the Swansea barrage was completed, transforming the River Tawe into long lake.

A lock was incorporated into the barrage design to allow the passage of boats between the River Tawe system and the sea.