A new Independent Board has been appointed to drive forward the Pride in Place programme in Ely and Caerau, putting local people at the heart of decisions about how UK Government funding is invested in the area.
Kevin Gardiner was appointed Chair and Joseph Goode Vice Chair in July. Following an expressions of interest process over the summer, a further 16 people who live, work in or represent Ely and Caerau have now been appointed to the Board.
Bringing together local MP Alex Barros-Curtis, residents, community organisations, businesses and partners, the Board will develop and deliver a shared vision for Ely and Caerau and oversee delivery of the Pride in Place programme.
Cardiff Council will support the Board in a non-voting capacity, helping to ensure the funding and agreed plan are delivered in line with UK Government funding criteria and processes.
The formation of the Board marks an important milestone in the programme, which will bring up to £20 million of investment over 10 years to support community-led regeneration in Ely and Caerau.
The investment aims to improve everyday life for residents by focusing on local priorities, which could include community facilities, public spaces, opportunities for young people and initiatives that strengthen pride and connection within the community.
Kevin Gardiner, Chair, said:
“This is an exciting opportunity for Ely and Caerau, and I’m delighted to be chairing a Board that brings together people with such a strong connection to the area.
“The most important thing is that local people are at the heart of this programme. They know their communities best and understand the things that can make the biggest difference to everyday life.”
Alex Barros-Curtis, Member of Parliament for Cardiff West, said:
“The Pride in Place programme represents a significant long-term investment in Ely and Caerau and, crucially, gives the community a strong voice in deciding how that investment can make the greatest difference.
“I’m looking forward to working alongside residents, community organisations, businesses and partners on the Board to develop a shared vision for our area and turn that ambition into positive change.”
Councillor Chris Weaver, Leader of Cardiff Council, said:
“The establishment of the new Board is an important milestone for the Pride in Place programme and for Ely and Caerau.
“This is about putting communities in the driving seat and giving local people a meaningful role in shaping investment and identifying the priorities that matter most to them.
“The Council is committed to supporting the Board and working alongside residents, community organisations and partners to help make the most of this major investment and deliver lasting benefits for Ely and Caerau.”
The Board has now met for the first time and is working alongside Cardiff Council to plan extensive community engagement to ensure local people have a strong voice in shaping the vision for Ely and Caerau and how the funding should be invested.
The Board will oversee the development of a 10-year investment plan, helping to ensure funding is directed towards the priorities that matter most to residents and delivers lasting benefits for the community.
