Kier has delivered the latest phase of the multi-million pound SA1 Swansea Waterfront development for the University of Wales Trinity Saint David. The new Innovation Matrix is a state-of-the-art hub designed to drive digital innovation, entrepreneurship, and industry collaboration. This landmark facility strengthens Swansea’s position as a leader in the technology sector, bridging academia and business to accelerate growth and create future-ready opportunities.
"The opening of this new building marks a significant step in digital innovation, providing a unique opportunity to collaborate, co-locate, and thrive in a high-quality space designed for partnership working. By bringing together industry and education, we are fostering an environment where cutting-edge ideas can develop, talent can flourish, and innovation can drive economic growth."Professor Elwen Evans, KC, Vice-Chancellor of UWTSD
The latest addition to SA1
Innovation Matrix sits alongside the University’s existing IQ and Y Fforwm buildings – both delivered by Kier – in the heart of Swansea’s SA1 Innovation Quarter.
It was developed through a strategic partnership between UWTSD and the Swansea Bay City Deal, an investment of up to £1.3 billion in a portfolio of nine major programmes and projects across the Swansea Bay City Region, which are together worth over £1.8 billion and 9,000 jobs to the region’s economy in coming years.
The City Deal is funded by the UK Government, Welsh Government, the public sector and the private sector. Kier procured the project through the Pagabo framework.
A hub for science and innovation
Arranged around a shared community area, Innovation Matrix consists of flexible working and meeting spaces, break-out areas and a coffee shop.
Built to host a new and vibrant innovation community of start-ups, businesses, and researchers, Innovation Matrix boasts a unique opportunity to connect business through co-location and partnership with the University.
The building is now at full occupancy, marking a significant milestone for the Swansea City Bay Deal.
The pioneering design behind the build
The project delivered a 3,200m2, low-carbon research hub designed for knowledge exchange between academia and industry.
Using experience from other buildings built by Kier on the campus, the team overcame historic dock-wall obstructions through targeted surveys and innovative piling solutions.
A modular 3m floor design ensures future adaptability, while collaborative engagement with end-users achieved cost savings without compromising the client’s brief and aspirations.
"Swansea has a proud history for innovation and entrepreneurship, but there has been a shortage in recent years of high-quality offices and shared workspace environments to meet the needs of businesspeople and aspiring entrepreneurs. Supported by cutting-edge digital connectivity, the Innovation Matrix will complement several other projects in Swansea to help meet that need while also giving access to university expertise and research."Cllr Rob Stewart, Leader of Swansea Council
The Innovation Matrix represents both Kier and UWTSD’s commitment to fostering digital innovation and business growth.
It reinforces Swansea’s status as a key player in the UK’s technology and entrepreneurship landscape, and expands on Kier’s experience in delivering lasting legacies in the technology sector.