Mumbles Businesses Attribute Decline in Footfall to Flood Defense Construction

Independent businesses located in a seaside village have expressed apprehension regarding their future due to a “significant” decrease in visitor traffic, which they link to extensive flood defense construction. Eateries and coffee shops in Mumbles, Swansea, attribute this reduction in patrons to ongoing efforts aimed at safeguarding coastal properties. Jenny Morgan, who owns Full of Graze, acknowledged the necessity of the construction but stated it was “abundantly clear” to local enterprises that “significantly” fewer individuals were frequenting the area. Both business proprietors and local councillors are requesting additional assistance from Swansea council. The council previously described the £25m project as the most substantial investment in Mumbles in generations, anticipating it would attract more visitors and provide long-term advantages for businesses. Ms Morgan, who established her business in 2021, characterized the previous summer as “really tough”. She reported, “Financially, August was our worst month. The six-week summer holidays are usually really busy but this year it was non-existent.” She identifies the primary problems as the reduction of available parking because of the construction and the presence of noise pollution. Ms Morgan observed, “It’s evidently quieter down here. We speak to so many regulars who say they actively avoid the area because they can’t park and it’s just quite unpleasant.” She further commented, “I get it’s going to be beneficial in the long term, but at the moment it’s really tough. It’s definitely worrying that if things continue like they are, I’m not sure we have a future.” She expressed a desire for increased support from the local council. According to Ms Morgan, “I think the opportunity to apply for grants to support the businesses affected during the time, and maybe an incentive like free parking to draw people back in would help.” Constructed in the 19th Century, the initial sea defenses have undergone regular maintenance and repairs throughout the years. However, the council stated that these defenses had become compromised as a result of their age and erosion. The initiative, which receives funding from the Welsh government, was initially slated for completion this year but has since been rescheduled for 2025. Giuseppe Catalano, a chef at the Italian restaurant La Dolce Vita, reported that visitor numbers have decreased by approximately 60% since the commencement of the work. He remarked, “It’s scary because you see the business going down.” Catalano added, “We are an established restaurant, and we know it’s just temporary but the bills, the rent, the taxes, they come anyway.” Having operated for nine years, the restaurant is experiencing its quietest year on record, according to Catalano. He acknowledged, “I understand the work is needed and it’ll be nice by the end, but it’s affecting the business.” Catalano further noted, “Mumbles is lovely for the sea view, but there’s no view anymore, and it’s not just our business, we speak with everyone around here and it’s affecting the area.” Local councillor Francesca O’Brien described a “perfect storm” of factors impacting businesses, citing reductions in bus services and restricted parking availability. She stated, “Although the work will look fantastic in the future, businesses are worried about the here and now.” Councillor O’Brien elaborated, “We’ve been asking for two things, to improve the bus service in Mumbles and most importantly the support for businesses.” A spokesperson for the council affirmed that it acknowledged “the genuine concerns raised by businesses, but this work is essential to prevent flooding of businesses and homes, while the enhanced promenade will make Mumbles an even more desirable destination, benefiting business for many years to come”. The spokesperson also referred to the £25m as the most significant investment in Mumbles in generations. They added, “During the work hundreds of public parking spaces remain in Mumbles, with some new spaces created at the roadside.” The spokesperson concluded, “The council has worked closely with the contractors to do all we can to minimise the inconvenience of what is a major infrastructure improvement.” Copyright 2024 BBC. All rights reserved. The BBC is not responsible for the content of external sites. Read about our approach to external linking.