Lido and promenade part of seafront regeneration plans

A proposed lido would form a key part of the Porthcawl regeneration plans

A new lido swimming pool and funfair rides form part of major regeneration plans of a south Wales seafront town.

The proposals for Porthcawl, Bridgend county, would also include homes and public space, as well as an area for a new hotel and promenade.

If planning permission is granted, work on the first phase of the project is expected to begin by March 2027.

Local residents had protested against the project, raising concerns about the impact on local infrastructure and parking, but the council said the updated plans included fewer homes, reduced building heights and new space for parking.

Council leader John Spanswick said the project "represents a hugely significant piece of work which has been many years in the making".

The revised plans, first released in January 2025, include a reduction in the number of proposed homes, from 1,100 to 980, with building heights lowered so structures would be no taller than three or four storeys, according to the Local Democracy Reporting Service.

The homes would be situated in the Salt Lake, Coney Beach and Sandy Bay areas, with "ambitions for up to 50%" to be set aside as affordable housing that would "prioritise local people".

The plans to address the parking concerns include a proposed refurbished open air car park at Hillsboro and a new public car park at Coney Beach, with plans also under way for an overflow car park.

A spokesperson for the council said the proposals would create "iconic seafront landmarks" celebrating Porthcawl's heritage, as well as significantly more public open space.

Mr Spanswick said the plans reflect the council's "determination to strike the right balance" between housing and community facilities, tourism and leisure opportunities in order to help businesses.

A public event will take place at the Hi Tide in Porthcawl on 25 November where residents can see the plans.

The proposed changes come after Coney Beach Pleasure Park, which had been located at the beachfront for more than 100 years, closed in October.