These inspiring individuals were nominated by colleagues and peers who wanted to recognise their dedication, kindness and commitment to making a difference.

Lee Goodman 鈥� St David’s Dewi Sant (Retail)

Lee Goodman, Deputy Security Supervisor at St David’s Dewi Sant, was recognised for his extraordinary commitment to helping others both in and outside of work. Alongside his role in the centre’s security team, Lee volunteers as a Community First Responder with the Welsh Ambulance Service and has already dedicated more than 500 hours of his own time to supporting the community.

Whether attending emergencies, delivering CPR and first aid awareness sessions, or mentoring fellow responders, Lee’s dedication to public service makes him a truly deserving Local Hero.

Joanne Bates 鈥� Mott MacDonald (Professional Services)

Joanne Bates, UK Ecology Lead at Mott MacDonald was nominated for her unwavering support of colleagues. Joanne plays a vital role in mentoring and developing the next generation of ecologists. Her willingness to share knowledge, champion collaboration and encourage others to embrace new opportunities has made a lasting impact on her team.

Joanne’s leadership and commitment to helping others succeed exemplify the spirit of the Local Hero Awards.

Giovanni Malacrino 鈥� Giovanni’s (Day Hospitality)

For more than four decades, Giovanni Malacrino has been a familiar and much-loved figure in Cardiff. As founder of Giovanni’s, Wales’ longest-established independent family-run Italian restaurant, he has helped create a welcoming and vibrant city centre.

Beyond his business achievements, Giovanni has spent years supporting charitable causes, helping vulnerable people, championing young people and raising funds for good causes. His generosity, community spirit and dedication to Cardiff have touched countless lives, making him a truly worthy recipient.

Nick Newman 鈥� Croeso Pubs (Night Hospitality)

Nick Newman, Area Manager of Croeso Pubs and Cardiff Night Forum Director, has spent more than 22 years championing Cardiff’s night-time economy and helping establish the city as a leading example of best practice within the hospitality and licensed trade sectors.

His tireless advocacy, leadership and commitment to supporting the industry have had a lasting impact on Cardiff’s reputation as a vibrant and welcoming destination after dark.

Mathew David 鈥� Iris Prize LGBTQ+ Film Festival (Not-for-Profit)

As Jury Coordinator for the Iris Prize LGBTQ+ Film Festival since 2014, Mathew David has played a pivotal role in creating memorable experiences for international guests and showcasing Cardiff on a global stage.

Known for his warmth, diplomacy and enthusiasm, Mat consistently goes above and beyond to ensure visitors feel welcome while connecting them with city centre businesses and experiences. His dedication has helped make the festival, and Cardiff itself, a place people are eager to return to year after year.

Thank You to Our Local Heroes

These five individuals represent just a small sample of the incredible people working across Cardiff city centre. Their passion, generosity and commitment help make Cardiff a better place to work, visit and enjoy.

Congratulations to all of our first Local Hero Award winners, and thank you for everything you do for our city.

Since its听inception听in 2016, 欧美成人 has invested in projects designed to improve visitor experience while supporting member businesses and听strengthening听Cardiff鈥檚 long-term resilience.听During our second BID term, 欧美成人 has delivered a wide range of sustainability initiatives, cultural activations and city centre campaigns that encourage people to spend more time in Cardiff, explore new听areas听and support local businesses.听听

As 欧美成人 enters the ballot period for its third BID term (2026-2031), sustainability, placemaking and destination marketing remain central听to its long-term vision for Cardiff.听

Leading on Sustainability听

欧美成人 was the first Business Improvement District (BID) in the UK听to launch a dedicated Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) Strategy.听Aligned with the principles of the Wellbeing of Future Generations Act, the strategy focuses on practical, credible sustainability initiatives that support businesses while helping build a more resilient city centre.听

欧美成人 recognises that long-term economic growth and commercial resilience are intrinsically linked to environmental responsibility, workforce wellbeing and strong governance.听Rather than treating sustainability as a standalone initiative, 欧美成人鈥檚 approach considers environmental impact, social听value听and long-term resilience across all areas of activity.听

Current and future initiatives include:听

• Supporting businesses to reduce waste and lower environmental impact.听

• Exploring city-wide sustainability interventions, including solar energy production.听

• Embedding ESG principles into operations and partnerships.听

• Supporting greener travel into the city centre.听

• Recording the wider social value of projects,听volunteering听and community initiatives.听

This work aims to position Cardiff as a leading example of how city centres can grow sustainably while continuing to support businesses and visitors.听

Greening the City Centre听

欧美成人鈥檚 environmental initiatives are also helping improve the appearance and atmosphere of Cardiff city centre.听More than 2,000 hanging baskets have been installed across the city, helping create a greener, more welcoming environment for visitors,听workers听and residents.听We have听also supported greener travel through its听鈥楶ark听and Ride鈥櫶齣nitiatives, with more than 4,750 cars using the scheme since its launch in 2023.听

These projects contribute to a city centre that feels cleaner, more听attractive听and easier to navigate,听encouraging people to spend more time in Cardiff and explore more of what the city has to offer.听

Bringing Art and Culture into听Everyday听Spaces听

欧美成人 believes public art and accessible cultural experiences play a vital role in the vibrancy and identity of a city.听

Throughout its second BID term, we delivered a series of installations and creative projects designed to bring culture directly into public spaces, encouraging people to engage with Cardiff in new and memorable ways.听

Case Study: Under Neon Loneliness听

In 2024, 欧美成人 installed听Under Neon Loneliness听by artist Mark James in Central Square as part of Cardiff City Music Festival.听The immersive installation attracted more than 110,000 visitors and transformed one of the city鈥檚 busiest public spaces into a large-scale cultural destination.听The project听demonstrated听how temporary installations can drive footfall, create social media听engagement听and encourage people to spend longer in the city centre.听

Case Study: Pride Month Audio-Visual Gallery听

To mark Pride Month in 2023, 欧美成人 created an audio-visual gallery across the city celebrating members of Cardiff鈥檚 LGBTQIA+ community.听Alongside photography installations, visitors could scan QR codes to hear personal stories exploring identity,听pride听and lived experiences.听The project brought visibility, inclusivity and storytelling into public spaces while encouraging people to engage more deeply with the city centre environment.听

Case Study: Reimagining the Arcades Through Art听

欧美成人 also commissioned seven听large, suspended听sculptures displayed throughout Cardiff鈥檚 historic arcades.听Created by alumni of the Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama, the installations told the story of Cardiff while drawing attention to the city鈥檚 iconic Victorian and Edwardian arcades.听The project helped blend heritage, creativity and placemaking while encouraging visitors to explore听different parts听of the city centre.听

Case Study: Churchill Way Summer Installation听

In summer 2025, 欧美成人 introduced a colourful family-friendly installation on Churchill Way designed to encourage a more playful and social use of the area.听By adding听additional听seating, colour and interactive elements, the project helped transform the space into a more welcoming destination for families,听visitors听and city centre workers.听

Creating Reasons to Visit Cardiff听

欧美成人鈥檚 campaigns and events are designed to increase footfall, support听businesses听and give people compelling reasons to visit the city centre throughout the year.听From seasonal installations to destination marketing campaigns, these projects help position Cardiff as one of the UK鈥檚 most vibrant city centres.听

Christmas in Cardiff听

欧美成人鈥檚 Christmas campaigns have become a major part of the city鈥檚 festive experience.听Each year,听we听deliver听bespoke and visually distinctive installations designed to set Cardiff apart from other UK cities and encourage festive visits into the city centre.听

In 2025, we worked with partners to deliver A Very Cardiff Christmas, promoting the city鈥檚 festive offering alongside landmark light projections on Cardiff Central Station and Cardiff Market.听The campaign reached more than 3.3 million people and contributed to a 4 million increase in city centre footfall.听These large-scale campaigns play a significant role in supporting hospitality,听retail听and leisure businesses during one of the busiest trading periods of the year.听

Easter Trails Driving Family Footfall听

欧美成人鈥檚 annual Easter trails have also become an important family-focused attraction within the city centre.听These free interactive experiences encourage families to explore Cardiff while supporting businesses during the Easter holiday period.听Each year, the trails attract more than 6,000听additional听visitors.听

In 2025, 欧美成人鈥檚 Dino Discovery Trail delivered particularly strong results:听

• 83.3% of surveyed businesses in St David鈥檚 Dewi Sant reported a positive impact on footfall.听

• 58.3% reported an increase in sales.听

The campaign听demonstrated听the impact experiential city centre events can have on visitor behaviour and business performance.听

Celebrating Cardiff鈥檚 Unique Identity Through City of Arcades听

Established in 2018, City of Arcades was created to promote Cardiff鈥檚 distinctive Victorian and Edwardian arcades alongside the wider retail and leisure offering across the city centre.听Through annual campaigns, events and activations, the initiative encourages visitors to explore independent businesses and discover parts of the city they may not otherwise visit.听

In 2023, City of Arcades received an international marketing award, helping raise Cardiff鈥檚 profile on the global stage.听

In 2025, 欧美成人 celebrated the 70th anniversary of Cardiff becoming Wales鈥檚 capital city through a 70-day City of Arcades campaign.听

The campaign achieved:听

• 3,500 participants.听

• 91% discovered a new arcade business.听

• 93% said they would visit the arcades again as a result.听

Previous听campaigns have also delivered significant increases in city centre footfall. In 2023, 欧美成人鈥檚 City of Arcades Day generated an听additional听100,000 visitors to the city centre.听

FOR the Future听

As Cardiff continues to grow, the role of placemaking, sustainability and cultural programming will become increasingly important.听欧美成人鈥檚 projects听demonstrate听how investment in greener initiatives, creative experiences and destination campaigns can strengthen city centre resilience while supporting businesses and improving visitor experience.听

With plans to expand activity into Cardiff Bay during its third BID term, 欧美成人鈥檚 vision is focused on creating a more connected,听sustainable听and vibrant destination for the future.听By continuing to invest in culture, sustainability and experiences that encourage people to spend time in the city, 欧美成人 is helping ensure Cardiff听remains听one of the UK鈥檚 most dynamic and welcoming city centres.听

Here鈥檚 our guide to making the most of May half term in Cardiff.

Kids Eat Free in Cardiff

Planning a family day out? A number of city centre restaurants are offering fantastic ‘kids eat free’ deals this half term, making dining out that little bit easier.

Families can take advantage of offers at:

• C么te Brasserie
• Giggling Squid
• 叠颈濒濒鈥檚
• Franco Manca
• Las Iguanas
• Pizza Hut
• TGI Fridays
• Turtle Bay
• YO! Sushi
• Zizzi

Be sure to check individual restaurant terms and participating dates before visiting.

Shaun the Sheep A.R. Trail at St David鈥檚 Dewi Sant

St David鈥檚 Dewi Sant is bringing some baa-rilliant fun to the city centre this half term with the completely free Shaun the Sheep: Fun with the Flock augmented reality trail.

Families can:

• Follow the interactive trail map
• Use the dedicated app to unlock animated scenes
• Complete fun challenges with Bitzer
• Meet Shaun and friends virtually around the centre
• Snap photos along the way
• Earn a Shaun the Sheep sticker upon completion

Get Creative at Lush Cardiff

Lush Cardiff will be hosting special Read-along Workshops from Monday 25th 鈥� Friday 29th May, perfect for little ones aged 5+.

Each workshop includes:

• An exclusive bath product making session
• A fun readalong of a classic children鈥檚 book
• Interactive Lush games
• A goodie bag filled with surprises to take home

Even better, selected sessions will also be hosted in Welsh.

Visit Paddington at Cardiff Castle

Say hello to everyone鈥檚 favourite marmalade-loving bear at Cardiff Castle.

Families can visit the Paddington statue, take a seat beside him for a chat, and of course snap the perfect selfie during your city centre adventure.

Roald Dahl鈥檚 The Enormous Crocodile The Musical

Catch Roald Dahl鈥檚 The Enormous Crocodile The Musical at New Theatre this half term for a family-friendly theatre trip packed with fun.

You can also follow the special illustrated Roald Dahl trail around Cardiff:

• Discover Roald Dahl-inspired locations across the city
• Snap photos along the way
• Tag @newtheatrecardiff on social media to unlock an exclusive ticket offer

Plan Your Perfect Half Term in Cardiff

Whether you鈥檙e searching for free activities, family-friendly food offers or creative workshops, Cardiff city centre has plenty to keep everyone entertained this May half term.

Keep an eye on 欧美成人 and our social channels for more events, offers and things to do across the city centre.

Since its听inception听in 2016, 欧美成人 has听remained听committed to shaping a city centre that people feel proud to live in, work in, invest in and visit.听In our most recent business consultation survey, cleanliness ranked as the second-highest priority for more than 1000听respondents, second only to crime reduction.听These priorities are intrinsically linked. A city that feels clean, cared for and听welcoming is also a city where people feel safer, stay longer and return more often.听

As 欧美成人 enters the ballot period for its third BID term, 2026-2031, Cardiff prepares for significant growth, with the new arena development in Cardiff Bay and an expanding programme of large-scale events.听In our third term, 欧美成人 will also expand our activity into Cardiff Bay, strengthening听alignment across key visitor areas and supporting a consistent city-wide approach.听听

As a result, the importance of dedicated cleansing and safety initiatives will only continue to grow.听

Maintaining a Clean Cardiff Every Day听

欧美成人鈥檚 dedicated听听delivers services that exceed standard local authority provision, helping visitors experience a welcoming and well-maintained听city centre.听

Operating seven days a week, the team provides rapid-response cleansing support across the city centre including:听

• Jet washing.听

• Graffitti removal.听

• Chewing gum removal.听

• Needle听collection听and safe disposal.听听

• Deep cleansing support for businesses.听

The impact of this work is significant. Between December 2023 and November 2025听alone, 欧美成人鈥檚 cleansing team achieved:听

• 256,866 metres of pavement jet washed.听

• 3,848 pieces of chewing gum removed.听

• 4,670听graffiti听tags removed.听

• 1,532 needles safely collected.听

These interventions are not solely cosmetic. Research consistently shows that clean public spaces improve visitor听perception, increase dwell time and contribute positively to economic confidence.听

Case Study: Rapid Response Cleaning听on Event Days听

Cardiff is one of the UK鈥檚 leading event cities, regularly welcoming hundreds of thousands of visitors for rugby internationals,听concerts听and festivals.听On major event days, cleansing operations become critical to听maintaining听the visitor experience.

欧美成人鈥檚 team works closely with partners to coordinate rapid-response cleaning before, during and after events, ensuring streets听remain听accessible,听safe听and presentable despite exceptionally high footfall.听This听additional听support is particularly important in hospitality-heavy areas where increased visitor numbers can quickly place pressure on public spaces.听

The result is a city centre that can confidently host world-class events while protecting the day-to-day experience of residents,听workers听and businesses.听

鈥淭he cleansing team are amazing, always so quick to respond and attend when needed and has really supported our team with clearing things left behind the venues.鈥澨�听

Kaylie Bunce, Neos Hospitality

Case Study: Tackling Graffiti and Anti-Social Impact听

Graffiti and vandalism can have a听substantial impact on听perceptions听of safety and investment in urban areas.听欧美成人鈥檚 cleansing team works with member businesses to remove graffiti quickly and efficiently, helping reduce the long-term visual impact of anti-social behaviour and discouraging repeat incidents.听

Businesses can also request targeted support for deep cleaning and unwanted debris removal outside their premises. Offensive graffiti is prioritised for urgent removal.听This proactive approach supports a stronger sense of pride across Cardiff city centre while helping businesses听maintain听welcoming frontages for customers.听

鈥淲e contacted 欧美成人 to arrange for their cleansing team to carry out a jetwash in the car park at our premises. They arrived the following day and did a very thorough and efficient job for us 鈥� thank you to all concerned.鈥�听

Sue Harvey,听St David鈥檚 Children Society听

Supporting a Safer Cardiff听

Alongside wider city centre management initiatives, 欧美成人 continues to invest heavily in safety initiatives that support businesses,听visitors听and the wider nighttime economy.听Cardiff鈥檚 nightlife and events sector are vital contributors to the city鈥檚 economy, but busy city centres also require visible support systems, trusted听partnerships听and preventative safety measures.听

欧美成人鈥檚 work brings together businesses, South Wales Police, Cardiff听Council听and community organisations to help make Cardiff a safer and more inclusive place for everyone.听Alongside cleansing, 欧美成人 continues to invest heavily in safety initiatives that support businesses,听visitors听and the wider nighttime economy.听

Case Study: Helping One Million People Get Home Safely听

欧美成人鈥檚听Night Marshals听have become a familiar and reassuring presence within Cardiff鈥檚 nighttime economy.听

The team supports residents,听visitors听and businesses by听assisting听vulnerable individuals, helping manage anti-social behaviour and ensuring people can get home safely after nights out and major events.听Between January 2021 and December 2025, Night Marshals helped more than one million people get home safely.听

Their role has become increasingly important as Cardiff鈥檚 evening economy continues to grow. Whether supporting visitors after concerts and sporting events or听assisting听those who feel vulnerable late at night, the marshals provide an approachable and visible safety presence across the city centre.听

Strengthening Business Crime Partnerships听

欧美成人听established听听(CABC) to improve intelligence sharing and strengthen partnership working between businesses and South Wales Police.听

Today, CABC connects businesses through a coordinated Business Crime Reduction Partnership focused on reducing theft, anti-social听behaviour听and repeat offending.听The partnership听operates听the听CityNet听radio system, enabling fast communication between businesses, security听teams听and police officers across the city centre.听

Since launch, 301 CityNet radios have been supplied to businesses, helping create a more connected and responsive safety network.听

CABC was accredited under the National Standards for Business Crime Reduction Partnerships in 2019 and successfully reaccredited in 2025, recognising its effectiveness in tackling crime collaboratively.听

“Strong communication strengthens safety and听CityNet听radios keeps our team protected and connected.”听

Michelle听Field, Vans听

Case Study: Safe Places and Ask for Angela听听

Safety is not only about crime reduction,听but听also about ensuring people feel supported,听included听and able to seek help when they need it.听欧美成人 continues to lead and听promote听national safeguarding initiatives including听听and听.听

Safe Places听

欧美成人 currently manages a network of 90 Safe Places across Cardiff.听These locations provide safe, supportive spaces where anyone feeling intimidated, vulnerable or at risk can seek help, charge a phone, contact a听friend听or access support. The initiative forms part of a nationwide network designed to improve accessibility and reassurance within public spaces.听

70,694 people viewed the Cardiff Safe Places website since 1st听June 2025 showing the听importance of this service.听

Ask for Angela听

Working alongside South Wales Police, 欧美成人 also supports the Ask for Angela initiative across city centre venues.听The scheme enables individuals feeling unsafe or uncomfortable in bars,听restaurants听or nightlife settings to discreetly ask venue staff for help using the code phrase 鈥淚s Angela here?鈥�.听Staff can then intervene appropriately and safely.听

欧美成人 launched the first bilingual Welsh-language Ask for Angela scheme in Cardiff and continues to provide training materials and support for participating venues.听Our Executive Director, Carolyn Brownell, is听the UK Ambassador for Ask for Angela.听听

These initiatives help strengthen Cardiff鈥檚 reputation as a city that prioritises safety,听inclusivity听and wellbeing.听

FOR the Future听

As Cardiff continues to grow as a destination city, the need for proactive city management has never been greater.听Visible safety support, collaborative听partnerships听and inclusive initiatives are essential foundations for a thriving city centre,听particularly as visitor numbers continue to rise.听

欧美成人听remains听committed to delivering services that not only respond to challenges, but actively improve the experience of everyone who lives,听works听and spends time in the city.听

Because creating a safer and cleaner Cardiff benefits everyone.听

We鈥檝e mapped out the ultimate sunshine trail across some of our fantastic 欧美成人 member businesses, so whether you鈥檙e planning a brunch date, post-work drinks or a full day in the city, here鈥檚 where to catch the sun this summer.

First Stop: Morning Coffee at Bru

Start your sunny city adventure at on Queen Street, perfectly located in the heart of the city centre. With plenty of outdoor seating, it鈥檚 an ideal spot to grab a coffee, enjoy a slow morning and watch the city come to life around you.

Whether you鈥檙e fuelling up for a shopping trip or simply taking advantage of the good weather, Bru鈥檚 outdoor seating makes it one of the best places to start your sunshine-filled day.

Brunch in the Sun at Parallel

social sun terrace catches the morning sunshine perfectly and with views of Cardiff castle it鈥檚 one of the city鈥檚 best brunch spots.

Their brand-new brunch menu is not to be missed either, and if you haven鈥檛 tried their famous leek and cheese croquettes yet, now鈥檚 your chance. Recently voted as our St David鈥檚 Favourite dish, they鈥檝e quickly become a must-try.

Sunshine, brunch and castle views? A pretty unbeatable combination.

Lunchtime Sun Trap at Daffodil

For a relaxed lunchtime stop, head to and discover one of the city centre鈥檚 hidden gems, their gorgeous outdoor garden.

Tucked away from the hustle and bustle, this hidden sun trap is perfect for enjoying a light bite, grazing board or leisurely lunch in the sunshine. It鈥檚 the kind of spot you could easily spend an entire afternoon in once the sun comes out.

Afternoon Aperol at The Corner House

As the afternoon rolls in, there鈥檚 no better place to soak up the lively summer atmosphere than on Mill Lane.

Grab an Aperol Spritz, settle into the sunshine and enjoy one of Cardiff city centre鈥檚 most vibrant outdoor spots. With the buzz of Mill Lane around you and plenty of outdoor seating, it鈥檚 the perfect place for a sunny afternoon tipple with friends.

Post-Work Drinks at Tiny Rebel

Nothing says summer in the city quite like post-work drinks in the sunshine.

is the ideal spot to catch the afternoon rays, with fantastic stadium views, a lively atmosphere and the perfect social vibe to ease into the evening. Whether you鈥檙e meeting colleagues after work or kicking off your evening plans, it鈥檚 a go-to destination for sunny city centre drinks.

Golden Hour at The Botanist

As the evening sunshine hits, make your way to gorgeous rooftop garden for cocktails surrounded by greenery and golden hour views.

With its relaxed atmosphere, botanical styling and rooftop setting, it鈥檚 one of the best places in the city centre to unwind as the sun begins to set. Expect cocktails, sunshine and the kind of summer evening atmosphere that makes you want to stay all night.

Sunset Vibes at Flight Club

Round off your sunshine crawl with one final rooftop stop at

Their rooftop terrace is the perfect setting for sunset drinks, sharing platters and evening cocktails with friends. Alongside pizzas, small plates and social darts, Flight Club also hosts live music every Saturday evening , making it the ultimate way to finish a summer day in Cardiff city centre.

Your Summer Starts Here

From rooftop cocktails and hidden gardens to sunny brunch terraces and lively after-work spots, Cardiff city centre is full of places to enjoy the sunshine this summer.

In a period when businesses continue to face rising operational costs, changing consumer habits and increasing pressure,听demonstrating听measurable return on investment is more important than ever before.听

欧美成人鈥檚 second BID term, BID 2, offers听a strong case听study in how collective investment can support economic resilience, strengthen confidence, and deliver value that individual businesses would struggle to deliver alone.听

欧美成人鈥檚 BID 2 ROI: Delivering Value Beyond the Levy听听

When businesses voted overwhelmingly in favour of BID 2 in 2021,听with a听91%听yes vote by number and听94%听by rateable value,听Cardiff was听emerging听from the disruption of the pandemic. Consumer confidence was听fragile;听footfall patterns had shifted and city centres across the UK were facing unprecedented challenges.听

Against that backdrop, BID 2 became an opportunity not only to support recovery, but also to strengthen Cardiff鈥檚 position as a competitive,听welcoming听and resilient destination.听

Since the start of the second term, 欧美成人 has generated more than听拢565,000听in听additional听income beyond the levy, allowing further investment directly back into the city centre.听

Rather than simply funding projects, that investment has translated into tangible outcomes for businesses:听

• Cleaner streets and quicker environmental response times help improve first impressions and create a more welcoming environment for customers and visitors.听听

• Safety initiatives support the night-time economy, reassure staff and visitors, and strengthen communication between businesses.听听

• Events,听activations听and destination marketing campaigns drive听additional听footfall and encourage repeat visits to the city centre.听听

• Sustainability and ESG initiatives help position Cardiff as a forward-looking city that aligns with the expectations of modern consumers,听investors听and employers.听听

Together, these interventions contribute to something larger than individual projects: confidence in Cardiff city centre as a place to visit, work, invest and do business.听

Supporting Business Confidence Through Visible Action听

欧美成人鈥檚 work during BID 2 has focused on practical improvements that businesses and visitors experience every day.听

Enhanced cleansing programmes, graffiti听removal听and public realm improvements help听maintain听standards across the city centre, while Night Marshals and the听CityNet听radio network continue to provide reassurance and support for businesses听operating听during busy trading periods.听

At the same time, cultural activity,听events听and destination campaigns have played听an important role听in keeping Cardiff vibrant and competitive.听

Installations such as听Under the Neon Loneliness, Pride Month activations and seasonal campaigns like听A Very Cardiff Christmas听have helped attract visitors into the city centre, creating reasons for people to spend more time in Cardiff and support local businesses.听

Meanwhile, initiatives such as City of Arcades continue to spotlight Cardiff鈥檚 unique independent retail and hospitality offer, helping strengthen the city鈥檚 identity and reputation.听

‘Download ‘Our impact in numbers, 2021-2026’

What Businesses Say Matters听Most听

鈥淲orking with (欧美成人)听has allowed John Lewis Cardiff to truly embed ourselves within the local community, opening doors to invaluable networking opportunities with our fellow city-centre businesses.”听Maddy Chappell, John Lewis and Partners听

鈥淲e feel so connected and supported by all the fantastic Cardiff teams.听I am听certain that the support from 欧美成人听and other agencies is the reason听we have听seen our challenges with anti-social behaviours reducing.鈥澨�Mared Maggs,听Amgueddfa听Cymru听

鈥淭he cleansing team are amazing, always so quick to respond and attend when needed and has really supported our team with clearing things left behind the venues.鈥澨�Kaylie Bunce, Neos Hospitality听

Why This Matters for BID 3听

BID 2 has听demonstrated听how collective investment can deliver visible improvements, stronger city centre promotion, and meaningful support for businesses.听

As businesses vote on BID 3 this June, the debate is not simply about levy costs, it is about whether Cardiff city centre benefits from continued shared investment, coordinated city leadership, and projects that individual businesses could not deliver alone.听

From cleanliness and safety to events, marketing, and ESG leadership, 欧美成人鈥檚 BID 2 has focused on creating a city centre that is more resilient, more competitive, and more attractive to visitors, workers, and investors alike.

This blog outlines what is happening in Cardiff, why the BID levy is increasing and where similar approaches have proven successful in the UK.听

What is Happening in Cardiff?听

欧美成人 has proposed a new BID levy structure for its 2026-2031 term, increasing the rate from 1.06% to 1.6%听of a property鈥檚 rateable value (RV) to sustain and expand services.听

This is due to:听

• Rising operational costs.听

• Reduced real-term income due to property valuation changes.听

• The expansion of BID area to include Cardiff Bay.听

• The need to provide inflation protection over 欧美成人鈥檚 next five-year term.听

In addition, 欧美成人 will raise the rateable value threshold from听拢25,000听to听拢30,000.听听This means properties which have a rateable value below听拢30,0000听on the 2023 rateable value list, will no longer be liable for the levy, even if they are contributing during the 2021-2026 BID term.听

How Does the Cardiff Levy Rate Compare to Other UK City BIDs?听听

The average levy rate for other UK city BIDs is 1.75%. Therefore, 欧美成人鈥檚 levy rate of 1.6% for 2026 鈥� 2031 is below the UK average, meaning businesses within the 欧美成人 BID area will pay less than the national average.听

Rateable Values听Have Shifted Dramatically Since 2017听

欧美成人听has calculated its BID levy using the 2017 rating list since it came into effect.听For the proposed听third term,听the BID levy will be updated to reflect the 2023 rating list. However,听there are听significant听differences between the two, with rateable values for retail and hotels听having听fallen听substantially. Applying the 2021-2026 term levy rate to the updated 2023 rating list across the听existing听BID area听would result in a听reduction in听levy income of more than 拢69,000.听

Why Levy Increases Are Not Unusual in Successful City BIDs听

A hallmark听of听a听successful听BID is听sustained business support,听demonstrated听through a repeated听鈥測es鈥澨齰ote driven by a clear return on investment, whether tangible or perceived.听

Most established BIDs:听

• Adjust BID levies in response to inflation.听

• Rebalance contributions as property values change.听听

• Expand geographical coverage over time.听

This is the trajectory Cardiff is now following.听

Where BID Levy Growth Has Worked in the UK听

Bristol听

A useful comparison can be found in Bristol, where the city鈥檚 BIDs, particularly Bristol City Centre BID, have evolved over successive terms with growing budgets and expanded services.听

As costs have risen, levy structures have been听maintained听or adjusted to ensure continued delivery of core services such as enhanced cleaning, business support, and city centre promotion.听

The BID has also broadened its remit to include initiatives around sustainability, safety, and the evening economy, reflecting changing business priorities.听

Importantly, continued support in ballots听indicates听that businesses recognise the value of sustained investment, even as contributions increase over time.听

Manchester City Centre BID听

Manchester鈥檚 BID model has evolved through multiple renewal cycles with expanding remits.听

• Increased budgets funded enhanced street cleaning, public realm upgrades, and city marketing.听

• Strong alignment with the city鈥檚 broader regeneration strategy.听听

• Businesses continue to support renewals due to tangible improvements in footfall and safety.

Lesson:听BIDs thrive when they are embedded in wider city growth strategies.听

Birmingham – Colmore BID and City Centre BIDs听

Birmingham鈥檚 BID structure is often cited as one of the UK鈥檚 most effective.听

• Multiple BIDs听operate听across districts.听

• Levy income has increased over successive terms.听

• Projects include security patrols, lighting improvements, and major public realm investments.听

Lesson:听Multiple BIDs with rising contributions can coexist when governance is clear and outcomes are visible.听

Other听Success Stories – Lincoln,听Leeds,听York, Etc.听

Cities such as Lincoln and York show that even outside major UK cities:听

• BID renewals often pass with strong majorities (sometimes 80-90%+).听

• Gradual levy increases are accepted over time.听

• Long-term continuity builds trust and stability.听

For example, Lincoln鈥檚 BID has听operated听since 2005 and has continued through multiple renewal cycles, showing sustained business support for ongoing investment.听

Lesson: Longevity builds acceptance of incremental levy growth.听

What Can Cardiff Learn?听

Cardiff鈥檚 proposed levy increase is not unusual; it is part of a wider UK pattern where successful BIDs evolve through:听

Visible Return on Investment听

Businesses support higher levies when they see:听

• Cleaner streets.听

• Improved safety.听

• Stronger events programme.听

• Increased visitor听numbers.听

• Benefits for member employees including training, networking听opportunities听and discounts via The听Card.听听听听听

Transparent Governance听

Cardiff鈥檚 BID model, like others, relies on accountability. Levy increases are easier to justify when budgets and outcomes are clearly reported.听

Incremental Change听

The increase from 1.06% to 1.6% is significant but phased and consultative, mirroring successful BID transitions elsewhere.听

Strong Renewal Mandates听

Cardiff鈥檚听previous听ballots have been decisive, with over 90% support in the most recent renewal, an indicator that businesses already perceive value in the model.听

To Conclude听

Cardiff鈥檚 BID levy increase sits firmly within a proven UK pattern. When BIDs deliver visible value, businesses repeatedly vote to sustain and even grow investment.听

The experience of cities such as London, Manchester, Birmingham, and Lincoln听demonstrates听levy increases are not only听viable, but they are also often essential to听maintaining听momentum.

At 欧美成人, we鈥檙e proud to lead the way as the first UK Business Improvement District to introduce an ESG strategy. Supporting environmental, social and governance goals is not just a commitment on paper. It is something we actively bring to life through initiatives that create real, lasting impact in our city.

A Morning of Action in Bute Park

On 30th April, we will be bringing our members together for a volunteering morning in Bute Park, one of Cardiff鈥檚 most loved green spaces. This hands-on session will focus on cleaning and greening the area, helping to enhance the park for everyone.

By giving just a few hours, our members can directly contribute to a cleaner, greener Cardiff while also working towards their own environmental and social goals. Beyond the impact, it is also a chance to connect with others, step away from the desk, and enjoy the wellbeing benefits that come from spending time outdoors and doing something positive.

Get Involved: Volunteer with Our Members

Looking to get involved? Many of our members are creating meaningful opportunities to support communities across Cardiff. Here are just a few ways you can take part:

Wales Council for Voluntary Action (WCVA)
Not sure where to start? is a great place to explore what is out there. Their website brings together thousands of volunteering opportunities across South Wales, making it easy to find something that suits your interests and availability.

Sight Life
Support people living with sight loss through a variety of flexible . Whether you can offer admin or IT support, or prefer a more social role as a befriender, helping with everything from a cuppa and a chat to days out, there are plenty of ways to get involved. Opportunities are also available in fundraising, health and wellbeing roles, and sight loss awareness training.

bigmoose
Get involved with a Cardiff based mental health charity that does things a little differently. Alongside volunteering, offers a range of fundraising challenges including half marathons, cycling events and even wing walking. It is a great way to support mental health initiatives while pushing yourself to try something new.

Pride Cymru
Play a part in one of the UK鈥檚 most vibrant celebrations of equality and inclusion. is currently looking for volunteers across event, training and core teams. They are committed to making volunteering accessible and offer support throughout the application process for people with neurodivergencies, disabilities and long-term health conditions.

Building a Better Future, Together

Volunteering is more than just giving up your time. It鈥檚 about supporting those who need it most and taking collective responsibility for the places we share.

Through our ESG work, we are committed to helping our members play their part in creating a more sustainable, inclusive Cardiff. Whether it is through environmental action like our Bute Park volunteering morning, or supporting social causes across the city, every action counts.

This April, we encourage you to get involved. Try something new, support a cause you care about, and be part of shaping a better future for Cardiff.

Organised听by 欧美成人, the event gave Cardiff鈥檚 business leaders the opportunity to hear directly from key political candidates about the policies and priorities shaping the future of the city, in addition to asking their own questions.听

Event Overview听

The hustings featured candidates from Plaid Cymru听(Anna Brychan), the Wales Green Party听(Tessa Marshall), Welsh Conservatives听(Calum Davies), Welsh听Labour听(Huw Thomas)听and the Welsh Liberal Democrats听(Rodney Berman).听听

Chaired by award-winning journalist Will Hayward, the discussion focused on key topics:听

• Business rates reform.听

• High street regeneration.听

• Transport and accessibility.听

• Attracting visitors to Cardiff.听

听Key Policy Discussions听

听Business Rates Reform听

听Business rates听emerged听as a major theme throughout the discussion:听

• Plaid Cymru proposed reforms to better support small, local businesses.听

• The Green Party suggested replacing business rates with a land value tax system.听

• Welsh Conservatives pledged to scrap rates for small firms, pubs, and post offices, alongside trial periods for new businesses.听

听Boosting Footfall and City Centre Vibrancy听

Candidates highlighted different approaches to increasing activity in the city听centre:听

• Welsh听Labour听emphasised听investment in public transport, including the South Wales Metro and capped bus fares.听

• Welsh Liberal Democrats proposed a 拢400m听Town听Centres听Fund to improve safety, cleanliness, and infrastructure.听

• Conservatives focused on tackling antisocial听behaviour听to make the city more attractive to visitors and businesses.听

听Cardiff as a Visitor Destination听

There was broad agreement on Cardiff鈥檚 strengths as an inclusive and welcoming city, alongside opportunities for growth:听

• Labour听highlighted major events and infrastructure, including听a new听arena and international sporting events.听

• Plaid Cymru stressed investment in culture and sport to drive tourism.听

• The Green Party proposed a new cultural act to support live music venues and civic engagement.听

听Looking Ahead: Future Priorities听听

Candidates also addressed longer-term challenges and opportunities:听

• Reducing bureaucracy in development and construction.听

• Strengthening relationships for future funding opportunities.听

• Supporting workforce readiness, housing, and economic growth.听

• Encouraging stronger collaboration between businesses and government.听

There was consensus on Cardiff鈥檚 importance as an economic driver for Wales and the need for policies that support sustainable growth.听

欧美成人鈥檚 Role听

欧美成人 acts as a vital bridge between the business community and decision-makers, ensuring business voices are represented.

欧美成人 continues to focus on:听

• Advocacy on key policy issues.听

• Delivering projects that enhance the city centre.

To learn more about 欧美成人 and听our听ongoing consultation process, visit听

Despite its importance, the ballot process can sometimes feel unclear. This guide explains how it works, so you can feel confident and informed about the ballot process.

What is 欧美成人?

欧美成人 is the trading name of Cardiff BID Ltd.,听the听independent, not-for-profit organisation听established听in 2016 to run Cardiff鈥檚 Business Improvement District (BID).听

All businesses within the BID area听are members and听pay a mandatory annual levy which funds projects and services shaped by business听priorities.听

欧美成人听operates听on a five-year term, after which member businesses vote in a ballot to decide whether it continues.听

What is the Ballot?

The ballot is a formal vote that determines whether 欧美成人 should continue to operate for another five-year term. This means 欧美成人 is accountable to the businesses that fund it.

Who Gets to Vote?

Member businesses within a defined BID area in Cardiff city centre and potential member businesses within a defined BID area in Cardiff Bay are eligible to vote.

Each eligible business will receive a ballot paper from 15th May, and voting is done by post. In some cases, businesses with multiple properties may have more than one vote.

How Does the Voting Work?

The ballot uses a dual-threshold system. For 欧美成人 to be renewed, two conditions must be met:

1. A majority of votes cast must be in favour (by number of voters).
2. A majority of the total rateable value of votes cast must also be in favour.

This ensures that both smaller and larger businesses have a fair say in the outcome.

Why Your Vote Matters

If the ballot is successful, 欧美成人 continues to operate and businesses in the defined BID area pay a levy to fund its work.

If the ballot is unsuccessful, 欧美成人 will cease to听operate听and all BID-funded services and projects will stop from听30th听November 2026.

What Are You Voting On?

欧美成人’s city-centre members and potential Cardiff Bay members will vote on 欧美成人’s More 欧美成人, Together 2026-2031 Business Plan which will launch in May. 欧美成人’s Business Plan outlines:

• Key priorities for the next BID term (2026-2031).
• Proposed projects and initiatives.
• Budget allocation.
• Strategic vision for Cardiff city centre and Cardiff Bay.

欧美成人鈥檚 Business Plan for 2026-2031 has been shaped via extensive engagement with city centre businesses, including surveys, workshops, drop-in听sessions听and one-to-one meetings. It is your opportunity to assess whether the for Cardiff’s plans align with your business needs.

What Businesses Will Pay

The levy is set at听1.6% of your property鈥檚 rateable value.

For example, a听unit听with a rateable value of听拢30,000听would pay听拢480听per annum.听

This is听below听the听UK average BID levy of听1.75%,听representing听strong value for the level of investment delivered.听

In its third BID term, 欧美成人 is projected to invest听拢12.78 million.

Key Dates 15th听May 鈥� 2nd听July 2026听

• 19th May 鈥撎�Notice of Ballot听听

Your ballot paper and pre-paid, branded envelope will be posted to your business address on or after this date.听听

• 2nd June – Business Plan Launch听

Our business plan will be presented in an event open to members and city stakeholders.

• 4th听June听

Ballot opens. You can return your ballot paper from this date. If you have multiple votes, please return them all. Your ballot paper must be returned via post.听听

• 2nd听July听

Ballot closes. To ensure your vote counts, you must return your ballot paper in the pre-paid envelope to arrive by听5pm听on this date.听

• 3rd听July听

The ballot result will be posted on the 欧美成人 website and social media.听

Easter Fun in the City

There鈥檚 still time to make the most of the Easter holidays in Cardiff. Our We鈥檙e Going on a Bear Hunt themed trail is running at St David鈥檚 Dewi Sant until 12 April, inviting families to explore the city centre through a fun, interactive adventure inspired by the much-loved children鈥檚 story.

With themed stops to discover along the way, it鈥檚 the perfect activity for little explorers and a great way to spend time together during the school break.

Live Sport in the Capital

Sporting energy continues into April as the Women鈥檚 Six Nations kicks off in Cardiff on 11 April, bringing more match-day excitement to the city centre throughout the month.

Whether you鈥檙e heading to the stadium or watching from your favourite venue, it鈥檚 another great opportunity to soak up the atmosphere and enjoy everything Cardiff has to offer on game day.

Live Events & Entertainment

April is packed with live entertainment, making it the perfect time to plan a night out in the city.

At Utilita Arena, a huge line-up of artists are set to take the stage, including Blue on 11 April, Yungblud on 18 April, The Prodigy on 19 April and Rick Astley on 21 April.

Over at New Theatre, you can catch comedian Chris Ramsey on 25 April, followed by Friends! The Musical on 27 April, bringing plenty of laughs and feel-good moments to round off the month.

Songkran Celebrations at Rosa鈥檚 Thai

Celebrate Thai New Year this April with something a little different at Rosa鈥檚 Thai.

To mark Songkran, guests dining between 1 and 30 April will have the chance to win a trip to Thailand, including flights and a five-night stay in Bangkok, in partnership with Singha Beer.

Alongside the competition, two limited-edition specials will be available throughout the month: Larb Gai (minced chicken salad) and Pineapple Fried Rice. It鈥檚 the perfect way to bring a taste of Thailand to Cardiff this spring.

Make the Most of April

From Easter adventures and live sport to big-name entertainment and seasonal dining, there are plenty of things to do in Cardiff this April. However you choose to spend it, the city centre is the perfect place to enjoy the new season.

Keep an eye on our channels for the latest updates, events and offers throughout the month.

Here鈥檚 your guide to making the most of the Easter break in the Welsh capital.

Kids Eat Free

Planning a full day out? Plenty of restaurants across the city centre are offering 鈥榢ids eat free鈥� deals over the Easter holidays, making it easier to enjoy a family meal without stretching the budget:

-Banana Tree
-叠颈濒濒鈥檚
-Pizza Express
-Franco Manca
-Frankie & Benny鈥檚
-Rosa’s Thai
-YO! Sushi
-Zizzi

Breakfast with The Ivy Bunny

Make Easter extra special with a magical morning at The Ivy. Available from 9am to 11am on 3rd, 4th and 5th April, this experience is perfect for creating lasting family memories.

Children will receive their very own Ivy Easter Bunny to take home, along with bunny ears and a themed activity set, while the whole family enjoys a delicious breakfast together. With plenty of photo opportunities, it鈥檚 a lovely way to celebrate the season.

Tickets are priced at 拢24.95 for children and 拢29.95 for adults, including breakfast and gifts.
Book your place .

Flowers and Friendship Bracelets at the New Theatre

Get ready for a fun-filled pop party as Flowers and Friendship Bracelets comes to the New Theatre. This family-friendly show celebrates the biggest hits from stars like Taylor Swift, Miley Cyrus, Chappell Roan and Sabrina Carpenter, with plenty of singalong moments and high-energy performances. A perfect Easter treat for families 鈥� don鈥檛 forget your friendship bracelets.

Book your tickets

Easter Hat Making at John Lewis

Get creative this Easter with a fun, hands-on hat making workshop at John Lewis. Designed for children aged 3 and up, this free in-store session includes all materials needed to create a colourful Easter hat to take home. With adult supervision required, it鈥檚 a simple and engaging activity perfect for little ones during the holidays.

Book your

Easter Sip & Clay at The Cardiff Townhouse

Unwind this Easter with a relaxed, creative Sip & Clay workshop at The Cardiff Townhouse, hosted by Paint & Pom Pom. This artist-led session invites you to create your own air-dry clay piece, with all materials provided including paints to take home and finish your design.

Perfect for beginners and creatives alike, the experience includes a glass of prosecco on arrival, with additional drinks available to purchase. A great way to slow down, get creative and enjoy something a little different this Easter.

Book your

Plan Your Easter in Cardiff

From interactive trails and family dining offers to seasonal events and spring days out, there鈥檚 no shortage of things to do in Cardiff this Easter. However you choose to spend the holidays, the city centre is ready to welcome you.

Keep an eye on our channels for the latest updates, events and offers throughout the Easter period.