Pics. Swansea Council
A popular sports ground and café that faced closure just a year ago has been transformed into a thriving community hub.
After the operating company entered voluntary liquidation and rising business rates threatened the future of Underhill Hub and sports facilities in Mumbles, Swansea Council and Mumbles Community Council stepped in to secure its future.
And less than a year later Underhill has a new lease of life and is exceeding expectations as both a sustainable facility and a valued community asset.
The hub hosts a wide range of activities, including sports camps and festivals, pay-and-play sessions, family activities, community events, Toys and Toast sessions, a popular café, and an expanding year-round programme for local residents.
In its first seven months of operation, Underhill generated £236,688 in income which is 39% above projections set out in an independent feasibility study.
A further major boost has come through the successful reduction of business rates from £74,500 to £22,250, delivering an annual saving of £52,250 that will significantly strengthen the Hub’s long-term financial sustainability.
The achievement follows a significant joint commitment from both councils. Swansea Council has committed financial support of up to £240,000 until August 2027, while Mumbles Community Council has allocated £62,300 from its 2026/27 budget, funded through the community council precept.
Rob Stewart, Leader of Swansea Council, said, “When the future of Underhill was uncertain, Swansea Council and Mumbles Community Council recognised what this facility means to local people and decided to act.
“We believed that with the right support, Underhill could become a thriving sports and community hub serving residents of all ages.”
“The results speak for themselves. Income is significantly ahead of projections, costs are performing better than forecast, and thousands of people are already benefiting from the activities, events and opportunities on offer.
“This early success demonstrates that our decision to provide financial support was the right one.”
Will Thomas, Chair of Mumbles Community Council said, “Underhill has been given a new lease of life and is rapidly becoming the vibrant, inclusive and sustainable facility we all believed it could be.”
“This strong start is a credit to the dedication and hard work of the staff and volunteers who have transformed the facility in such a short period.”
