The old lifeboat base at Mumbles Pier is set to re-open as a restaurant, after Swansea Council yesterday approved plans to transform the site.

The approved plans propose to erect two new pavilion buildings which will become retail, bathroom, and café units, with the former lifeboat house becoming a new restaurant.

As part of the plans, the former lifeboat house's existing access bridge will be replaced and gates will be erected at the pier entrance.

The Grade II listed Mumbles Pier has been an iconic part of the landscape since 1898. It is one of only six surviving iron piers in Wales.

Planning documents say that "the improved tourism offer will ensure that the pier retains its significance for the foreseeable future."

Chairman of Mumbles Community Council, Dr Martin O'Neill said: "I welcome the maintenance and the restoration of an historic and valuable site to Mumbles, but at the same time it is very important we monitor the situation and make sure the area is not overdeveloped."