Archaeologists have started work to clear soil and debris from Swansea Castle's courtyard as part of plans to open up the site to visitors for the first time in decades.

Swansea Council aims to restore public access to the attraction and uncover the property's medieval layers, with the archaeological work due to take five weeks to complete. Feilden Clegg Bradley Studios have been appointed to compile a development plan that is to explore the castle's potential as a tourist, commercial and educational attraction.

Funding has been made available by the Welsh Assembly Government and Cadw to open up the castle remains, which include a tower overlooking the city centre. During a three-night blitz by German bombers in 1941, the castle suffered major damage and was cleared around 35 years ago to leave the existing remains.

Swansea Council leader Chris Holley said: "This is the first phase of a project aimed at making our terrific city centre castle accessible to the public once again and the possibilities for the future are plentiful." Image: Swanseatilidie