FURTHER CYCLE PARKING LOCKERS TO BE INSTALLED IN THE CITY CENTRE

A further 36 cycle parking lockers will be installed in Cardiff city centre across the following locations:

  • The National Museum Cardiff
  • Queen Street West
  • Park Place
  • Hills Street
  • Central Library
  • St Mary Street

Cyclists can already use the lockers in a number of locations across the city, which include outside Cardiff Castle and Westgate Street, and there’s already proposed plans to install a further 14 units outside of the city, including Victoria Park, and Albany Road/Wellfield Road Junction.

The Installation of the new units will begin this Friday, 10 April, with all 51 units fully installed and operational by the end of April. The new facilities will offer cyclists more opportunities to safely park their bike at a small cost of £1.50 a day, £7.50 a week or £20 a month. 

All of the new units will be fitted with solar power, delivering significant environmental benefits by removing the need to connect the lockers to the electricity grid, saving both time and money.

To use the lockers, cyclists will need to download the BikeDok app, register an account, and follow the on‑screen instructions to book a secure parking space, with confidence that their bike will remain safe until they return. BikeDok have passed the highest rated security test at Sold Secure, making them the only smart bicycle locker in the UK with this rating.

A spokesperson for Cardiff Council said: “We are aware of the issues surrounding bike theft in the city centre, so we are keen to provide more facilities for cyclists to lock up their bikes securely at a small cost, giving them peace of mind while they go about their day.

“Throughout the planning of the project, we have worked closely with South Wales Police and security experts to ensure the new lockers are safe and cannot be misused. These are additional facilities, as the existing steel stands, which are free to use, will remain for anyone who wishes to park their bike at no cost.”

FAW Launch Climate Education Initiative in local Primary School

The Football Association of Wales (FAW) has partnered with Our Classroom Climate (OCC) to deliver a pioneering climate education programme at Cwrt Rawlin Primary School in Caerphilly.

This initiative combines interactive digital learning with cutting-edge carbon capture science, positioning the school at the forefront of sustainability education in Wales.

The programme provides teachers with a fully interactive platform aligned to curriculum outcomes, while pupils engage directly with real-world climate solutions.

At the heart of the project is an innovative microalgae-based system—described as a ‘liquid tree’—which captures carbon dioxide directly from classroom air through photosynthesis. This not only improves air quality but brings climate science to life in a tangible and engaging way.

The initiative is expected to serve as a blueprint for wider rollout across Wales, supporting national sustainability goals and inspiring the next generation to take climate action.


St David’s Dewi Sant Becomes Platform for Equality conversation Ahead of Major 2026 Conference

Cardiff’s St David’s Dewi Sant hosted a unique public engagement initiative, capturing real-time perspectives on equality, inclusion, and belonging across Wales.

Led by Mastering Diversity CIC, in partnership with Cardiff Life Magazine and WCS Agency, the activation brought together voices from across the UK and beyond, reflecting the diversity of Cardiff’s population and its growing international reach.

The filming forms part of a wider campaign ahead of the Mastering Diversity Conference 2026, set to take place in Cardiff, September 10th at the Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama.

As part of the conversation, members of the public were asked a series of questions including:

• How equal is Wales today? 

• What makes people feel they belong? 

• What makes Wales stand out? 

The responses revealed a consistent theme:

• Cardiff is widely seen as a city where people feel they belong 

• Wales is recognised as making meaningful progress on equality 

However, there remains a clear expectation for continued action and leadership.

Contributors included a broad cross-section of society, including Welsh athlete Kieran Jones, Nathan Martin, Regional Board Engagement Manager NATWEST, alongside residents, visitors, students, and professionals.

Why This Matters for Wales

The initiative highlights the role of major public spaces like St David’s Shopping Centre in supporting not only economic activity, but also wider social engagement.

With significant daily footfall and a diverse audience, the Centre provided an ideal environment to capture authentic, real-world perspectives, positioning Cardiff as a hub for both commercial and cultural influence.

The insights gathered will feed directly into the Mastering Diversity Conference 2026, which will bring together business leaders, policymakers, and community voices from across the UK and internationally.

The Conference has established itself as a key platform for:

• Cross-sector collaboration 

• Policy discussion 

• Business engagement on equality, diversity, and inclusion operating under the theme: “We Go Together or Not At All”

Founder, multi-award-winning EDI Advisor, Bernie Davies, recently back from the United Nations CSW70 New York explains, “This isn’t about ticking boxes. This is about listening to real people. And what they’re saying is clear.  Progress is happening, but we’re not finished yet.”

Centre Deputy Director at St David’s Dewi Sant, Richard Stephen-Knotts said, “St David’s Centre welcomes millions of visitors each year, so it’s important we create space for conversations like this. It was fantastic to see such a diverse range of people sharing their views on equality and belonging.”

A series of video content and insights from the day will be released in the lead-up to the Conference, contributing to a wider national and international conversation on equality and inclusion.

Businesses, organisations, and individuals are invited to engage through attendance, partnership, sponsorship, and collaboration.

Tickets for the conference are free and can be booked now via: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/mastering-diversity-conference-2026-royal-welsh-college-of-music-and-drama-tickets-1986076061965?aff=oddtdtcreator

CARDIFF CITY STADIUM TO HOST UEFA NATIONS LEAGUE THIS AUTUMN

It’s been confirmed that Cymru’s home UEFA Nations League matches will be held at Cardiff City Stadium this autumn.

Craig Bellamy’s side begin their League A campaign with a four-match international window, starting with an away double header against Portugal (Thursday 24 September) and Denmark (Sunday 27 September). The next two matches will be a home double header at Cardiff City Stadium against Norway (Thursday 1 October) and Denmark (Sunday 4 October).

The venue for the away match against Portugal is not yet confirmed, but the away match against Denmark will take place at the Parken Stadium in Copenhagen, a 38,000-seater stadium which hosted four matches in the UEFA EURO 2020 tournament.

The campaign will then end away to Norway at the Ullevaal Stadium in Oslo (Saturday 14 November), home to Norway’s national teams, before a home finale against Portugal at the Cardiff City Stadium on Tuesday 17 November.

UEFA Nations League fixture schedule (local times only)

  • Portugal v Cymru – Thursday 24 September 7:45pm – Venue TBC
  • Denmark v Cymru – Sunday 27 September 6:00pm – Parken Stadium, Copenhagen
  • Cymru v Norway – Thursday 1 October 7:45pm – Cardiff City Stadium
  • Cymru v Denmark – Sunday 4 October 7:45pm – Cardiff City Stadium
  • Norway v Cymru – Saturday 14 November 6:00pm – Ullevaal Stadium, Oslo
  • Cymru v Portugal – Tuesday 17 November 7:45pm – Cardiff City Stadium

Ticket information for the fixtures will be announced soon.

PLUG charging launches lamp column ev charging pilot across cardiff

Cardiff-based electric vehicle infrastrcutre provider, PLUG Charging, has announced the rollout of a lamp column charging pilot across Cardiff, delivering accessible, on-street EV charging for residents while reinvesting directly into local communities.

The project, delivered in partnership with Cardiff Council, upgrades existing street lighting infrastructure to provide convenient residential EV charging, specifically designed for longer dwell times such as overnight charging.

All installations have been selected following detailed site surveys, with units positioned at the front of pavement to ensure safe, practical access, with no trailing cables, while minimising impact on pedestrians and street layouts. The chargers are intentionally designed to support residential charging patterns, enabling drivers to charge where they live, particularly in areas without off-street parking.

A spokesperson for Cardiff Council, said: “The 80 chargers will be installed across the city, including on residential streets, outside homes, and near businesses. The pilot aims to help residents who have an electric vehicle but don’t have a driveway or other off-street parking available to charge their vehicle at home, as well as playing a role in giving residents the confidence to switch to an electric vehicle.”

Priority locations for the pilot include Heath, Gabalfa, Cathays, Roath, Penylan, Adamsdown, Splott, Riverside, Canton, Grangetown and Butetown, all areas identified as having low levels of off-street parking. Check the map below to see all locations.

Cardiff Council will reinvest 70% of income generated back into future EV charging projects. PLUG Charging, as the Council’s delivery partner, will contribute 10% of its share directly into community causes within Cardiff, ensuring the rollout delivers tangible local social value alongside the infrastructure itself.

Drivers can access and manage sessions through a dedicated bilingual mobile app,  available in both English and Welsh, offering charger location and availability, seamless payment, and real-time support. All units are supported by proactive remote monitoring and fault reporting to ensure network reliability.

With many Cardiff residents lacking driveways, on-street charging remains one of the most significant barriers to EV adoption. PLUG Charging’s lamp column solution uses existing infrastructure to accelerate deployment without major construction works, avoiding the significant grid upgrades required for ultra-rapid charging installations.

Jarrad Morris, CEO, PLUG Charging, said: “As a Cardiff business, we’re proud to be delivering infrastructure that genuinely serves the communities we’re part of. This pilot is about more than just charging points, it’s about making the transition to electric vehicles accessible and fair for everyone, regardless of whether they have a driveway. The fact that our app is available in both English and Welsh reflects our commitment to being a truly Welsh business, serving Welsh communities.”

Carl Morris, Technical Director, PLUG Charging, said: “This project is about making EV charging work for real people in real communities. By focusing on residential streets and longer dwell times, we’re providing a practical solution for those without access to off-street parking. Importantly, the benefits of this transition are felt locally, with direct investment back into Cardiff communities.”

The Cardiff pilot forms part of the Council’s wider electric vehicle strategy, which aims to deliver at least 1,500 charge points across the city by 2030. If successful, the pilot could be rolled out to further locations across Cardiff and serve as a blueprint for other towns and cities across Wales and the UK.

Wales director of the year awards shortlist announced

The Institute of Directors Wales (IoD Wales) has today revealed the outstanding business leaders shortlisted for this year’s Wales Director of the Year Awards.

The prestigious annual awards, held in collaboration with headline sponsor Cardiff Business School, recognise senior decision-makers who are helping to build a better world through business and have demonstrated leadership excellence in areas including innovation, skills development, and sustainability.

38 directors from the private, public and third sectors have been named as finalists across 10 categories, with directors from Cardiff and Vale College and Flintshire social enterprise Cyd Innovation Ltd leading the nominations with appearances on the shortlists for three categories each.

Head Judge Alys Smith said:

“It was an absolute pleasure to review this year’s submissions. The calibre of entries across Wales has been exceptional, showcasing not only innovative and resilient businesses, but also truly inspiring leadership.

“My thanks go to my fellow judges for their time, insight and thoughtful debate throughout the process. Narrowing down the shortlist was no easy task, which is a testament to the strength and depth of talent we have here in Wales.”

Richard Selby MBE DL, National Chair of IoD Wales, added:

“The Wales Director of the Year Awards celebrate leadership talent, success and achievement across all industry sectors, highlighting the remarkable contributions of business leaders to their teams, industries and communities. This year’s incredibly strong shortlist exemplifies what these awards stand for.”

The winners will be announced at the highly anticipated ceremony at the ICC Wales, Newport on Friday 8 May. The Chair’s Award for Excellence will also be presented at the event.

Creativity Unleashed: Cardiff Animation Festival is Back

Looking for something a little different to do in Cardiff this spring? Cardiff Animation Festival
returns from 23-26 April with four days of films, creativity and feel‑good experiences for all
ages.

Now in its ninth year, Wales’ only global animation event once again takes over Chapter
Arts Centre with a joyful mix of screenings, workshops, games and special guests.

If you’ve ever thought animation was just for children, this is the perfect place to discover how
rich, surprising and inventive it can be. The festival showcases animated films from around the
world – moving, funny, strange, beautiful and everything in between. Some will transport you
somewhere unexpected, others might give you chills, and many offer a welcome moment of
calm away from the pace of everyday life.


Families are well catered for too, with a dedicated programme for younger audiences aged 5+,
featuring bite‑sized independent shorts ideal for children who are new to cinema or who love
variety. Highlights include Little Amélie (PG), a gentle and visually stunning story about
childhood, curiosity and connection.


Throughout the weekend, visitors can get hands‑on with animation in relaxed, playful
workshops – from making riso flipbooks and animating with sand to crafting clay characters with
modelmakers from Aardman, the studio behind Wallace & Gromit and Shaun the Sheep.

There’s also the chance to contribute to a collaborative animation or help create a mural.
The festival is known for its warm, welcoming atmosphere, with informal socials, late‑night
events like animated karaoke, and plenty of opportunities to chat with filmmakers. This year’s
guests include Summer Camp Island creator Julia Pott and bestselling illustrator Philippa Rice,
alongside a special focus on Japanese animation with Kotatsu Festival.


Dates: 23rd – 26th April 2026
Location: Chapter Arts Center and other venues
Tickets and programme: https://www.cardiffanimation.com/

Mastering Diversity Conference Returns to Cardiff This September

Cardiff Life are co-sponsoring the awards once again this year with WCS Agency, and both will also be exhibiting for the first time.

Mastering Diversity, founded by award-winning Bernie Davies, returns with its annual conference this September, promising to be bigger and bolder than ever before.

Now in its fourth year, the conference brings together businesses, organisations and individuals from all over the UK to share powerful stories and engage in meaningful discussion around diversity, equality and inclusion. Attendees can engage in panel discussions, breakout zones and fireside chats throughout the day, encouraging thought-provoking conversation across various sectors, including healthcare, sport, education and business.

Dubbed an important fixture on Wales’s annual calendar by Hon Jane Hutt MS, Minister for Social Justice, the 2026 line-up is already filled with big brands and even bigger names committed to helping make a change.

SPONSORS

All of this year’s currently confirmed sponsors are returning from previous years, testament to the impact the event brings and the commitment from sponsors to be part of the change. Leigh Day are yet again, headline sponsor, with zone and award category sponsors so far confirmed as:

  • Commonwealth Games Wales (Sports Zone and Awards Category)
  • Hugh James and Natwest (co-sponsors of Business Zone and Awards Category)
  • Welsh Ambulance Services University NHS Trust (Health Zone and Awards Category)
  • Cardiff Life and WCS Agency (co-sponsors of Public Sector Zone and Awards Category)

SPEAKERS

This year’s conference will once again be hosted by sports journalist and presenter, Molly Stephens. Molly will be joined on stage by an inspirational line-up, which include: 

  • Ambassador Akinremi Bolaji: A respected Nigerian diplomat whose expertise includes international diplomacy, foreign policy, economic strategy, and multilateral negotiations. Akinremi recently accompanied the Nigerian President, Bola Tinubu on the Nigerian State Visit with King Charles and Queen Camilla.  
  • Dr Mrs Vivien Njemanze: Deputy Clerk of the Nigerian Senate, Dr. Vivien brings over three decades at the heart of Nigeria’s National Assembly, operating at senior level within the legislative system, shaping policy, governance, and procedural integrity. 
  • Laura Waters and Kelli Aspland: Co-founders of the award-winning Solar Buddies, the Cwmbran business rose to fame after appearing on Dragon’s Den and securing funding from Deborah Meadon. The product was born after the founders found that  their children’s school had ‘No Touch Policies’ in place when it came to applying sunscreen. The multi-million pound business transformed the way children apply SPF, protecting their skin from harmful rays. 

EXHIBITORS
Attendees can also speak with more than 30 exhibitors during the conference, which include: 

  • Show Racism the Red Card
  • The King’s Trust
  • National Youth Advocacy Service
  • Prime Cymru
  • DWP South East Wales
  • Daring to Dream
  • Vibe Youth
  • Neuroble
  • TraiNeuro Ltd
  • Autentic
  • D’Elevated Home Care and Support Services

Bernie Davies, Founder of Mastering Diversity comments:

“We’re in our fourth year of the Mastering Diversity conference, and every year I’m blown away by the support we receive from our incredible sponsors and by those who want to be part of something special. This year’s event returns at Royal College of Music and Drama, and it’ll be more interactive than ever, with guests able to take part in panel discussions, fireside chats, and network with one another too. 

“Throughout the day, we discuss topics which can be tough, but that’s why it’s so important to bring people together. Everyone leaves feeling inspired and ready to be part of significant change. I look forward to welcoming everyone for 2026. We go together, or not at all!”

This year’s conference will once again be held at the prestigious Royal College of Music and Drama, for a full day of inspirational discussion and learning. 

Tickets are on sale now via https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/mastering-diversity-conference-2026-royal-welsh-college-of-music-and-drama-tickets-1986076061965?r 

Wales launches ‘Rooted in Wales’ ‘to improve food and drink ecosystem’

The Welsh Government has launched a national campaign to help bring together every part of its food system, from the farmers, growers and fishers who produce food from Welsh land and waters to the manufacturers, retailers, communities and families who buy, cook and share it.

‘Rooted in Wales’ is a call to collective action: a recognition of the relationship Wales has with its food system and creating lasting change where everyone has their part to play. The campaign takes a whole‑system approach to food in Wales, moving beyond individual choices to highlight how different parts of the food system connect and reinforce one another.

‘Rooted in Wales’ supports and connects:

  • Our Welsh farmers, growers and fishers producing high quality food
  • Our Welsh manufacturers and food businesses sourcing more Welsh ingredients
  • Our retailers and shoppers choosing local and seasonal food
  • Our communities coming together to grow, share and celebrate local food, strengthening food security
  • Our collective call to action to reduce food waste, unnecessary packaging and strengthen local economies.

By bringing these parts together, the campaign reinforces how existing Welsh food policy supports people’s wellbeing, strengthens communities and supports the environment – ensuring that progress in one area supports progress in others.

Welcoming the campaign, Deputy First Minister and Cabinet Secretary for Climate Change and Rural Affairs Huw Irranca-Davies MS said: “Choosing food that’s rooted in Wales is a powerful action we can all take to help create a more secure food system for our communities. By choosing local produce, and supporting our farmers and food producers, we’re helping to play our part in building a fairer and healthier food system.

“People don’t have to change everything at once, but if everyone starts by making some changes, then it will add up to a big impact for Wales and its communities.”

The campaign reflects and brings together existing action across Wales, including the work of Food Sense Wales and the 22 Local Food Partnerships operating in every local authority in Wales. These partnerships play a central role in delivering the Welsh Government Community Food Strategy; bring communities, organisations and businesses together around food and illustrate the value of co-ordinated and community‑led approaches.

The Welsh Government is committed to increasing public sector spending on Welsh food and suppliers by at least 50% by 2030, and ‘Rooted in Wales’ supports and amplifies this existing ambition.

That ambition was brought to life at the Torfaen Food Summit, held at Greenmeadow Community Farm in Cwmbrân, a setting that embodied everything the campaign stands for. The Torfaen Food Partnership, established in 2022, has developed sustainable local food partnerships for its residents. It delivers projects spanning green agriculture, community growing schemes, grant support for sustainable action, and links to welfare services for those most in need.

Among those attending the summit were pupils from a federation of Blenheim Road and Coed Eva Community Primary Schools, who took part in growing and cooking demonstrations. For the schools, ‘Rooted in Wales’ resonates far beyond the classroom.

A key part of the campaign and focus for the Welsh Government is supporting businesses in Wales to source more Welsh ingredients and add greater value to every part of the supply chain.

At the forefront of this is Welsh food and drink wholesaler Castell Howell, with over 900 employees, 6 depots and a fleet of over 200 vehicles delivering Welsh produce throughout Wales.

The Welsh Veg in Schools initiative, co-ordinated by Food Sense Wales and supported by Castell Howell, has grown to cover 12 local authorities across Wales since 2022 and has provided over 1 million portions of locally sourced, organic vegetables for Welsh schools.

For Edward Morgan, Group ESG Manager for Castell Howell: “We see Welsh Veg in Schools as a way of helping improve existing infrastructure within the Welsh horticultural industry, by finding a viable route to market for locally grown vegetables. The aims of the project are far reaching. We need to stimulate more horticultural activity in Wales, and equally, encourage children to eat more vegetables.”

‘Rooted in Wales’ invites people, businesses and communities to play their part in shaping a fairer, more resilient food system for Wales.

Heading out in Cardiff this Saturday? Here’s what you need to know

Road closures will be in place across Cardiff city centre this Saturday, March 28th, as Bristol Bears take on Harlequins at the Principality Stadium in a Big Day Out double header. With the women’s kick-off at 3.30pm, closures run from 11am to 8pm.

The M4 is expected to be very busy, so plan your journey ahead.

The quickest option is the park and ride at Vindico Arena, International Drive in the Sports Village, Cardiff Bay (CF11 0JS). The car park opens at 9.30am with the first bus at 10am. Last bus from the city centre is 6.30pm. It costs £15  cash only.

If you’re travelling by train, Transport for Wales is trialling a new post-match system. Fans on Valleys and Vale services will be directed to Cardiff Queen Street rather than Cardiff Central this time around. Have your ticket ready before you travel or use the contactless pay as you go option on the TfW app.

Driving in? Parking is available at the Civic Centre and Sophia Gardens, both £20 for cars, opening at 8am with card payments now accepted.

Cycleways within the road closure area will remain open throughout the day. No large bags are permitted at the stadium  check principalitystadium.wales before setting off.

Road closures

From 7am, Scott Road and Park Street will be closed to prepare Gate 5 and protect queuing fans.

The following roads will be closed as part of the full city centre closure:

Kingsway, Cowbridge Road East, Tudor Street, Plantagenet Street and Beauchamp Street. Residents and traders on Tudor Street can access via Fitzhammon Embankment.

The following roads will be closed in their entirety: Duke Street, Castle Street, High Street, St Mary Street, Caroline Street, Wood Street, Central Square, Westgate Street, Quay Street, Guildhall Place, Golate, Park Street, Havelock Street and Scott Road.

Station Terrace and Guildford Street will be buses only during road closures, with Station Terrace closing at 5pm and reopening by 6.30pm.

Penarth Road will close 30 minutes before the final whistle and reopen up to an hour after.

Trains

Transport for Wales (TfW) will trial a new post-match crowd management approach for Bristol Bears vs Harlequins on March 28th, aimed at improving the match day experience and preparing for major works at Cardiff Central.

Fans on Valleys and Vale services will be directed to Cardiff Queen Street instead of Cardiff Central. Here’s where to go:

Platform 2 – Cardiff Bay, Barry Island, Penarth, Bridgend Platform 3 – Aberdare Platform 4 – Pontypridd, Treherbert, Merthyr Tydfil Platform 5 – Bargoed, Caerphilly, Rhymney, Coryton, Ystrad Mynach

Have a valid ticket before travelling or use the contactless pay as you go system on the TfW app. TfW volunteers will be on hand to help. Please note pay as you go is not available on GWR services.

Cardiff Bus Interchange will close at 11am and reopen at 8pm.

Park & Ride facilities

The event Park & Ride will operate from the car park next to Vindico Arena, located on International Drive, Sports Village, Cardiff Bay (CF11 0JS).

The drop-off point in the city centre will be Tresillian Way.

The car park opens at 9:30am, with the first bus departing at 10:00am. The last return bus from the city centre will be at 6:30pm.

Parking is £15 per vehicle (cash only).

Civic Centre Event Day Parking (Cars and Coaches)

Getting there: Exit Junction 32 of the M4, head south on the A470 towards the city centre, and follow the signage to the Civic Centre. Cost: £20 per car and £30 per coach, payable on the day. Card payments are also available. Parking times: The car park opens at 8:00am and closes at 12:00 midnight.

Event Day Parking at Sophia Gardens

Getting there: Exit Junction 32 off the M4.

Cost: £20 per car and £30 per coach. Card payments are now available.

Parking times: The car park opens at 8:00am and closes at 12:00 midnight.

Please note: Sophia Gardens car park will be staffed until 7:00pm. All vehicles are left on site at the owner’s risk. Cardiff Council will not be held responsible for any theft or damage to motor vehicles or personal possessions. Any vehicles left in the car park after closing time may be subject to a fine.

Can you cycle or walk?

Cycleways, including pop-up cycle routes within the road closure area, will remain open for use during the event. However, due to the large number of people expected to attend the rugby match, all cyclists are advised to take extra care.

Road closures apply to all motor vehicles but do not affect bicycles with pedals.

Those living locally may wish to consider cycling or walking. Research shows that 52% of car journeys in Cardiff are under 5km a distance that can typically be cycled in around 20 minutes.

With increased congestion during major events, cycling can often be a quicker and more convenient option than travelling by car.

Bus

Local buses:

Bus services will be diverted while city centre road closures are in place. Please visit the relevant bus operator’s website for up-to-date information about your specific route.

Disabled parking

Disabled drivers are advised to use Sophia Gardens. Additional accessible parking is available at various private car parks please check individual websites for availability.

Taxis

St Mary Street taxi rank will close at 11am and re-open at 8pm.

Shopping Parking

City centre car parks are also available: North Road Car Parks, St David’s Shopping Centre, John Lewis, Capitol Shopping Centre, and NCP (Adam Street, Dumfries Place and Greyfriars Road).