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The decisions as the council's minutes record them. A plain-language summary follows once it has been written.
RESOLVED: that • The Replacement Local Development Plan Deposit Plan (as set out in Appendix 1) be approved for consultation purposes and be forwarded to Council for consideration. • The revised timetable for preparation of the Replacement Local Development Plan as set out in this report be approved and it be agreed that it be forwarded to Council for their consideration and agreement so it can be formally submitted to Welsh Government.
RESOLVED: that 1) Funds be authorised for the main contract required to address the accommodation requirements for the Lansdowne Primary School as referred to in Appendix 2. 2) Authority be delegated to the Director of Education & Lifelong Learning (in consultation with the Cabinet Members for Education, Employment & Skills and Finance, Modernisation & Performance, the Director of Governance and Legal Services, the Director of Economic Development and the Corporate Director for Resources) to determine all aspects of the procurement process (including for the avoidance of doubt development of all procurement documentation and selection and award criteria, commencement of procurement through to award of contracts) matters arising from this report. 3) The revenue and capital implications arising from the transfer of Lansdowne Primary School to the former Fitzalan High School site be noted.
RESOLVED: that 1) The update on the Cathays High School proposals be noted. 2) Authority be delegated to the Director of Economic Development, in consultation with the Director of Education & Lifelong Learning, the Director of Governance & Legal Services and Corporate Director Resources, Cabinet Member for Education and Cabinet Member for Investment & Development, to pursue discussions with the UK Government Property Agency to conclude an agreement on the acquisition of land to support the expansion and modernisation of Cathays High School. 3) Authority be delegated to the Director of Education & Lifelong Learning and Corporate Director Resources, in consultation with the Leader of the Council and Cabinet Member for Education, to develop the financial strategy that supports the delivery of priorities outlined in the Council’s Education Investment Strategy, including delivery of the expansion and modernisation of Cathays High School. 4) A further report be received providing an update on progress and outlining any further consequential considerations.
RESOLVED: that the Corporate Property Strategy 2025-30 and the associated performance targets to be achieved over the 5 year period be approved.
RESOLVED: that 1) The disposal of the former Toys R Us/Retail 3 site by way of option as set out in this report and in line with the Heads of Terms set out in Confidential Appendix 2 be approved and authority be delegated to the Director of Economic Development, in consultation with the Cabinet Member for Investment & Development, the Section 151 Officer and the Legal Officer, to deal with any ancillary matters related to the disposal. 2) The plans for alternative short-term parking arrangements as illustrated at Appendix 4be noted. 3) Engagement with local residents/landowners be authorised to consider the future options for the areas of boardwalk not in Council ownership and report back to a future meeting of Cabinet.
Decision as recorded
RESOLVED: that • The Replacement Local Development Plan Deposit Plan (as set out in Appendix 1) be approved for consultation purposes and be forwarded to Council for consideration. • The revised timetable for preparation of the Replacement Local Development Plan as set out in this report be approved and it be agreed that it be forwarded to Council for their consideration and agreement so it can be formally submitted to Welsh Government.
Cabinet considered a report regarding the Replacement Local Development Plan (RLDP) for 2021-2036. The RLDP aims to update the existing Local Development Plan (LDP) adopted in 2016, which covers the period 2006-2026. In line with the Stronger, Fairer, Greener vision for Cardiff, the new plan outlines strategies to meet future needs, including the creation of 32,300 new jobs and 26,400 new homes by 2036, with a focus on sustainable development and regeneration of brownfield sites. It was noted that there are no new greenfield sites allocated in the new RLDP, and there is less greenfield land than in the previous plan. The plan also emphasizes the importance of sustainable transport, aiming for 76% of journeys to be made by walking, cycling, and public transport by 2030. The RLDP includes detailed policies on various aspects such as housing, employment, sustainable neighbourhoods, climate change, biodiversity, and environmental protection. It also incorporates new and strengthened policies to address current issues, including the allocation of housing regeneration areas, sustainable design, transport, health, wellbeing, and the Welsh language. The plan has been prepared and shaped following extensive consultation and technical assessments, and a formal consultation period is scheduled from 18 February to 15 April 2025. The report was considered by the joint Environmental and Policy Review & Performance Scrutiny Committee on 16 January 2025, and the letter from the Chairpersons was circulated prior to the Cabinet meeting. RESOLVED: that • The Replacement Local Development Plan Deposit Plan (as set out in Appendix 1) be approved for consultation purposes and be forwarded to Council for consideration. • The revised timetable for preparation of the Replacement Local Development Plan as set out in this report be approved and it be agreed that it be forwarded to Council for their consideration and agreement so it can be formally submitted to Welsh Government.
Decision as recorded
RESOLVED: that 1) Funds be authorised for the main contract required to address the accommodation requirements for the Lansdowne Primary School as referred to in Appendix 2. 2) Authority be delegated to the Director of Education & Lifelong Learning (in consultation with the Cabinet Members for Education, Employment & Skills and Finance, Modernisation & Performance, the Director of Governance and Legal Services, the Director of Economic Development and the Corporate Director for Resources) to determine all aspects of the procurement process (including for the avoidance of doubt development of all procurement documentation and selection and award criteria, commencement of procurement through to award of contracts) matters arising from this report. 3) The revenue and capital implications arising from the transfer of Lansdowne Primary School to the former Fitzalan High School site be noted.
Appendix 2 of this report is exempt from publication on the basis that it contains information of the description set out in paragraphs 14 and 21 of Part 4 of schedule 12 A of the Local Government Act 1972 and in all the circumstances of the case, the public interest in maintaining the exemption outweighs the public interest in disclosing the information. Appendix 4 of this report is exempt from publication on the basis that it contains information of the description set out in paragraph 16 of schedule 12A of the Local Government Act 1972. Cabinet considered a report addressing the need to relocate Lansdowne Primary School due to the deteriorating condition of its current Grade II listed Victorian buildings. The school, which serves pupils aged 3-11, has been deemed safe, but has been facing significant health and safety issues, including roof leaks, failing infrastructure, and the need for frequent repairs. Despite temporary mitigations, the building's condition has been rated as "End of Life," necessitating a more permanent solution to ensure the safety and well-being of students and staff. While the health and safety risks can be temporarily mitigated, they cannot be fully eliminated without significant investment and constructive works, during which it would not be possible to keep pupils on site while the work is undertaken. The Council has explored various relocation options and determined that the former Fitzalan High School site, located less than a mile from Lansdowne Primary, is the most suitable alternative and will provide the school with stability. Plans are underway to refurbish this site to accommodate the primary school, including the installation of demountable classrooms and the use of existing buildings for hall, dining, and nursery/reception areas. The relocation is expected to be completed by the end of October 2025, with efforts being made to minimize disruption to teaching and learning during the transition over the half term period. The report also outlines the procurement process for the necessary construction and refurbishment works, emphasizing the importance of maintaining the safety and operational functionality of the school throughout the relocation. The Council has consulted with local members and stakeholders, ensuring that the move aligns with existing admission and transport policies. The Council acknowledges that parents at the school will have questions and concerns, and engagement with parents will be undertaken throughout the process. The report was considered by the Children & Young People Scrutiny Committee on 14 January 2025, and the letter from the Chairperson was circulated prior to the Cabinet meeting. RESOLVED: that 1) Funds be authorised for the main contract required to address the accommodation requirements for the Lansdowne Primary School as referred to in Appendix 2. 2) Authority be delegated to the Director of Education & Lifelong Learning (in consultation with the Cabinet Members for Education, Employment & Skills and Finance, Modernisation & Performance, the Director of Governance and Legal Services, the Director of Economic Development and the Corporate Director for Resources) to determine all aspects of the procurement process (including for the avoidance of doubt development of all procurement documentation and selection and award criteria, commencement of procurement through to award of contracts) matters arising from this report. 3) The revenue and capital implications arising from the transfer of Lansdowne Primary School to the former Fitzalan High School site be noted.
Decision as recorded
RESOLVED: that 1) The update on the Cathays High School proposals be noted. 2) Authority be delegated to the Director of Economic Development, in consultation with the Director of Education & Lifelong Learning, the Director of Governance & Legal Services and Corporate Director Resources, Cabinet Member for Education and Cabinet Member for Investment & Development, to pursue discussions with the UK Government Property Agency to conclude an agreement on the acquisition of land to support the expansion and modernisation of Cathays High School. 3) Authority be delegated to the Director of Education & Lifelong Learning and Corporate Director Resources, in consultation with the Leader of the Council and Cabinet Member for Education, to develop the financial strategy that supports the delivery of priorities outlined in the Council’s Education Investment Strategy, including delivery of the expansion and modernisation of Cathays High School. 4) A further report be received providing an update on progress and outlining any further consequential considerations.
Cllrs Norma Mackie and Chris Weaver declared a personal interest as Governors of Cathays High School. Cllr Sarah Merry declared a personalinterest as she is ward member for Cathays. Cabinet considered a report providing an update on the plans to improve Cathays High School. The school is set to increase its capacity from 1,072 to 1,450 places, including an expansion of the Specialist Resource Base. Due to the limited land options available at the time, and to address the current site's limitations and provide suitable facilities for delivering the Curriculum for Wales, the Cabinet had agreed to progress with the proposal at the Maindy Park site which is held by the Council as a charitable Trust. The Council has been exploring land options for the new development, including discussions with the Government Property Agency (GPA) regarding the now potential acquisition of the Companies House site. This site is being considered as a viable, and preferred, alternative to the Maindy Park site, which would require consent from the Charity Commission and the relocation of the Maindy Cycle Track. The GPA's decision on the future of Companies House is expected through the 2025 spending review. RESOLVED: that 1) The update on the Cathays High School proposals be noted. 2) Authority be delegated to the Director of Economic Development, in consultation with the Director of Education & Lifelong Learning, the Director of Governance & Legal Services and Corporate Director Resources, Cabinet Member for Education and Cabinet Member for Investment & Development, to pursue discussions with the UK Government Property Agency to conclude an agreement on the acquisition of land to support the expansion and modernisation of Cathays High School. 3) Authority be delegated to the Director of Education & Lifelong Learning and Corporate Director Resources, in consultation with the Leader of the Council and Cabinet Member for Education, to develop the financial strategy that supports the delivery of priorities outlined in the Council’s Education Investment Strategy, including delivery of the expansion and modernisation of Cathays High School. 4) A further report be received providing an update on progress and outlining any further consequential considerations.
Decision as recorded
RESOLVED: that the Corporate Property Strategy 2025-30 and the associated performance targets to be achieved over the 5 year period be approved.
Cabinet received the Corporate Property Strategy 2025-30 which outlines the Council's approach to managing its extensive land and property estate. Since 2015, successive administrations have developed property strategies, each spanning 5 years, to outline the objectives, challenges and performance of the Council’s property estate. The strategy aims to align property management with the Council's corporate objectives, focusing on modernisation, decarbonisation, and financial efficiency. The estate includes over 300 operational properties and 420 leased properties, generating significant revenue, delivering essential services and supporting community activities. The strategy builds on the previous 2021-26 strategy, incorporating lessons learned and adapting to new policy changes and service demands. The strategy sets out four key objectives: strategic alignment, supporting corporate objectives, setting property performance targets, and fostering partnership working. It emphasises the need for a corporate approach to property management to optimise resources and support Council services effectively. The strategy also highlights the importance of modernising the estate, reducing carbon emissions, and improving operational efficiency through initiatives like the One Planet Cardiff programme and hybrid working models. The Council faces several challenges: an aging estate requiring significant maintenance, rising demand for sustainable and efficient land use, and the imperative to decarbonise properties. In response, the Council plans to continue rationalising its estate, focusing on reducing running costs, improving statutory compliance, and generating capital receipts through property disposals. The strategy includes specific targets, such as reducing the estate's running costs by £600k, achieving 80% statutory compliance, and reducing carbon emissions by 20%. The strategy also addresses the management of vacant properties, the investment estate, and community assets, ensuring that all property decisions support the Council's long-term goals and financial sustainability. A draft of the strategy was discussed in detail during a development session with the Policy Review & Performance Scrutiny Committee in December 2025. RESOLVED: that the Corporate Property Strategy 2025-30 and the associated performance targets to be achieved over the 5 year period be approved.
Decision as recorded
RESOLVED: that 1) The disposal of the former Toys R Us/Retail 3 site by way of option as set out in this report and in line with the Heads of Terms set out in Confidential Appendix 2 be approved and authority be delegated to the Director of Economic Development, in consultation with the Cabinet Member for Investment & Development, the Section 151 Officer and the Legal Officer, to deal with any ancillary matters related to the disposal. 2) The plans for alternative short-term parking arrangements as illustrated at Appendix 4be noted. 3) Engagement with local residents/landowners be authorised to consider the future options for the areas of boardwalk not in Council ownership and report back to a future meeting of Cabinet.
Appendices 2, 3 and 5 of this report are not for publication as they contain exempt information of the description contained in paragraphs 14, 16 and 21 of Schedule 12A of the Local Government Act 1972. Cabinet received the report on the International Sports Village (ISV) development, which seeks approval to dispose of land to secure a major new sports and leisure attraction. This would allow the Council to deliver some temporary environmental improvements to the site which should have an immediate positive impact for local residents. The report also outlines the proposed temporary parking arrangements at the ISV site and seeks approval to engage with local residents regarding the boardwalk areas not owned by the Council. The ISV development is a key priority for the Council, aiming to transform Cardiff Bay into a leading UK visitor destination. The Council has received a proposal from Top Golf Ltd, a major international leisure brand, to deliver their first Top Golf attraction in Wales, requiring the disposal of the former Toys R Us site on a long lease. Similar facilities in the UK have created 300 jobs; therefore, this proposal represents a significant opportunity for the city and would complement the existing sports and leisure facilities at the ISV. The disposal of the Toys R Us site would mean that the Council would no longer be able to accommodate the previous proposal for a new velodrome at that site. However, as set out in the Cathays High School Update report, there is no longer the same pressing need to relocate the Maindy Cycle Track. The ISV report also addresses the need for temporary car parking solutions until a permanent plan is agreed upon. The Council proposes to fund the temporary car park through external funding, providing environmental improvements to the site. The report also addresses the issue of the ISV boardwalk which has been closed for safety reasons and requires maintenance. The Council plans to remove the boardwalk in Council ownership and provide a land-side promenade, engaging with local residents to determine the best way to reopen public access to the waterfront. The Council sympathises with the frustrations of residents and local Ward Members and is committed to addressing their concerns and will work to identify appropriate solutions. The report was considered by the Economy & Culture Scrutiny Committee on 21 January 2025, and both the public and confidential letters from the Chairperson were circulated prior to the Cabinet meeting. RESOLVED: that 1) The disposal of the former Toys R Us/Retail 3 site by way of option as set out in this report and in line with the Heads of Terms set out in Confidential Appendix 2 be approved and authority be delegated to the Director of Economic Development, in consultation with the Cabinet Member for Investment & Development, the Section 151 Officer and the Legal Officer, to deal with any ancillary matters related to the disposal. 2) The plans for alternative short-term parking arrangements as illustrated at Appendix 4be noted. 3) Engagement with local residents/landowners be authorised to consider the future options for the areas of boardwalk not in Council ownership and report back to a future meeting of Cabinet.
Councillors must say when they have a personal link to something being discussed, such as a job, a property or a family member. A prejudicial interest is one strong enough that the councillor usually leaves the room and takes no part.
Declarations are read from the minutes once they are published.
Lists the council's current councillors only. Co-opted members, officers and former councillors aren't shown.