Cardiff is set for a transformative expansion as the city’s Replacement Development Plan nears final approval. This comprehensive blueprint outlines the creation of over 32,000 new jobs and 26,400 new homes by 2036, aiming to meet the needs of a growing population while promoting sustainable development.

 

The plan adopts a balanced approach to housing, with a 50:50 split between greenfield and brownfield sites. New residential areas are proposed for the city centre, Cardiff Docks, and the International Sports Village. Notably, 25% of these homes will be designated as affordable housing, potentially delivering up to 6,000 affordable units by 2036.

 

In line with Cardiff Council’s Economic Strategy, the plan focuses on protecting existing employment sites and introducing new ones in key areas such as the Cardiff Central Zone, Roath Basin, and Cardiff Parkway. This approach is designed to provide a diverse range of job opportunities across the city.

 

A key aspect of the plan is the development of well-designed, mixed-use neighbourhoods that foster safe, inclusive, and healthy living environments. It prioritises sustainable transport, to ensure that 75% of all journeys are made by foot, bicycle, or public transport by 2030. Investments in transport infrastructure aim to make sustainable travel more appealing and reduce dependence on private cars.

 

Aligned with the One Planet Strategy, the plan prioritises low-carbon developments, energy-efficient buildings, and an increase in renewable energy supplies. Greenfield sites north of the M4 and other countryside areas will be protected, ensuring a net gain in biodiversity and ecosystem resilience.

 

Following extensive public consultation, the Deposit Plan is set to be reviewed by Cardiff Council’s Cabinet and, pending approval, will proceed to a formal eight-week consultation period from 18 February to 15 April. All feedback will be considered before submission to the Welsh Government for examination by an Independent Inspector in autumn 2025.

 

Cllr Dan De’Ath, Cabinet Member for Climate Change, Strategic Planning and Transport said:

“The new ‘Deposit Plan’ will act as a blueprint for development in Cardiff up until 2036 setting out a plan-led strategy that will control development in the city, ensuring that investors and developers know and understand how we want the city to develop. Without an up-to-date Local Development Plan, development in the city would happen in a haphazard way, allowing developers to put forward proposals that do not align with our aspirations on how Cardiff should grow, so this is why this process is so important.”