Kids are breaking into this derelict historic Swansea pub

Children are breaking into a derelict Swansea pub and causing damage inside.

The former Cape Horner, on the corner of Miers Street and Fabian Way, has been targeted by vandals in recent weeks.

The pub was once at the heart of the St Thomas community, with an upstairs function room popular for weddings and birthday parties.

It closed its doors for the final time a decade ago and in 2018 plans to develop the building into student accommodation were turned down leaving a question mark over its future.

Sitting on one of the busiest roads in the city, the three-storey building has become an eyesore to those passing it as it has remained empty since its closure.

Windows have been smashed and children have been going inside and causing damage (WalesOnline/ Gayle Marsh)

In recent weeks, officers from South Wales Police have received reports of children heading inside and causing criminal damage.

The force's Eastside Neighbourhood Policing Team urged people not to enter the unsafe building and stated that patrols will be carried out in the area to reassure residents.

A spokeswoman for South Wales Police said: "We were called to a report of young people causing criminal damage at the Cape Horner Hotel at about 6.15pm on Monday, October 5.

"The local neighbourhood team attended and a number of youths made off from the scene."

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Hawkfire Developments, the company that owns the building, previously said the building was "in decline and highly susceptible to anti-social behaviour", and claimed that converting it would reduce growing HMO (houses of multiple occupation) pressure in the area.

One of the owners, Jas Kullar, said that attempts have been made to "secure" the building and that plans are still in place to develop the site into student accommodation.

"We have got planning permission for 72 student flats to go there," he said.

"We are hoping to start the development in January or February next year.

"We have had a few issues there for a little while and we have been trying to secure the place as much as possible."

Anyone with information is urged to contact police on 101, quoting occurrence 2000363723.