Regeneration organisation Groundwork has been appointed to manage the development of the Hafod Copperworks in Swansea, Wales, due to start early this year.

The long-term vision is for the site – which dates back to 1810 and includes 14 buildings and structures of historical significance – to become a hub for work, education, tourism and leisure.

Led by Swansea Council and Swansea University the development will see listed buildings protected, vegetation cleared, walking trails introduced, the installation of information panels and the staging of archaeological digs and other events.

The Welsh government is contributing £277,000 to the scheme and £244,000 has been provided by the European Regional Development Fund.

Professor Huw Bowen, who is leading the project team on behalf of Swansea University, said Hafod is one of the most important heritage sites in Britain, yet until now has remained neglected.

“Because of its copper production, Swansea’s impact on the development of the world economy can’t be understated,” he said.

“This is why we’re also looking, through the project, to generate links with places like Chile, Cuba and South Australia which supplied large quantities of ore to the smelting works in Swansea.”