The state-of-the-art property will also house other businesses and start-ups

 

The lcv group, one of the UK’s largest suppliers of commercial vehicles, has relocated to Riverside House, a state-of-the-art, acre-and-a-half complex in the heart of Swansea’s SA1 area.

Not only will the new premises allow the company to further expand its workforce and services, but it will also provide a home for other businesses and startups in the area, utilising the latest in green technology to make the offices as self-sustaining as possible.

Having been based in Skewen, Neath Port Talbot, for more than 10 years, the lcv group has returned to the city where it first began trading in Morriston in the early 2000s. Back then the company was little more than a handful of people in a portacabin, but it has since transformed into a major employer and industry leader, having been named Best Commercial Vehicle Broker in the UK at the Brokers News Awards 2023.

Riverside House, as the name suggests, sits overlooking the nearby River Tawe, just a stone’s throw away from Morfa Shopping Park. It is also a short walk from Swansea.com Stadium, home of Swansea City, the football team the company have sponsored for more than 10 years.

While work on the complex is still ongoing, all existing staff moved in early January, and the increased space means they have already been joined by new members of the team. Along with dozens of refurbished rooms including kitchens and bathrooms, new additions made possible by the extra space include a shower room, a multifaith area, and an auditorium style lecture room ideal for conferences.

CEO Rod Lloyd said: “We’re coming back to Swansea in a fabulous complex. We haven’t cut any corners, and we want this to be a place that people are proud of and happy to work in. The central location makes it ideal for staff and visitors alike, and as a lifelong Swansea City fan, it’s fantastic to be working directly opposite the stadium.”

Not only will the increased space allow for a larger workforce, but it also means other businesses can be based within the complex and benefit from the ample parking and refurbished facilities.

Rod adds: “Within the first week, we increased our head count by five, and we expect at least another 10 by the end of the year. Combined with the tenants coming in, it’s highly likely that Riverside House will accommodate somewhere in the region of 125 people by 2025.

“We’ve got an accountancy firm, a property designer, a local MP’s constituency office, and various others already lined up. We’re also planning to open a business hub that will help startups. We were all startups at some point, and we’re keen to offer help to others to get going.”

Riverside House utilises the latest in green technology to power the business and purify the air. ‘Living walls’ made of moss have been installed throughout that building that double up as unique design features, while plans are in place for solar energy to power the business and some of the tenants by mid-2024. Also, a key area in the motor trade in recent times is the switch from fossil fuels to electric, and vehicle charging points will be installed and made available to all residents of Riverside House.

Rod says: “The complex is an ongoing project, and we will be continuously looking for more ways to improve it. From electric vehicle charging to outside dining areas, we have lots of ideas just waiting to be implemented and I’m excited to see what the future holds for Riverside House.”