Penderyn Whisky cash boost for Swansea Copperworks project

The plans include a new distillery, visitor centre and VIP bar

Whisky firm bosses can raise a glass in celebration - after securing funding to revamp a historic site in Swansea.

Penderyn Whisky wants to turn the Powerhouse building at the Hafod Morfa Copperworks site into a new distillery and visitors' centre.

The scheme to redevelop the 19th Century site has been awarded a £3.56m grant from the National Lottery.

The Aberdare firm's owner, Nigel Short, estimates the new facility could attract 100,000 tourists a year.

Swansea Council leader Rob Stewart described the development as "exciting".

He said: "This exciting scheme will create jobs, attract visitors and boost the on-going regeneration of the River Tawe corridor.

"We're determined to work with partners to maximise the river's potential to develop housing, walks, restaurants, water-based activities, landing stations and boat trips between the city centre and the Liberty Stadium."

The powerhouse, pictured in 1924

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In its 19th century heyday, Swansea became known as "Copperopolis" for its global web of copper trading connections.

But the 12.5-acre site, home to Grade II listed buildings, has lain dormant for decades - something which council bosses hope to change.

The revamped site would allow Penderyn Whisky to expand, while keeping its current base near Aberdare.

Mr Short said: "These plans are incredibly exciting for us as a business and for Swansea as a forward-thinking city."

Other plans in the pipeline for Swansea include a new 3,500 seater arena, a cable car on Kilvey Hill as well as "digital bridge" on Oystermouth Road.

The old powerhouse as it looks in 2018