The Economy and Culture Scrutiny Committee met to discuss proposals for the Ely Youth Zone, the International Sports Village, the introduction of a visitor levy, and the renewal of the Business Improvement District. Key decisions included in-principle agreement to proceed with the Ely Youth Zone, approval of a permanent car parking solution at the International Sports Village, and support for the visitor levy consultation responses.

Ely Youth Zone

The committee reviewed proposals for the Ely Youth Zone, a project aiming to provide a state-of-the-art facility for young people in partnership with the national charity OnSide. The project has secured in-principle agreement to proceed, with capital costs to be match-funded 50:50 by OnSide and the council. The council has allocated £200,000 per annum for seven years towards revenue costs, which has been capped and will not increase. Funding for the council's £6 million capital contribution will be sought from external grants and contributions (£3.3 million), land disposals (£1.7 million), and appropriation of land to the Housing Revenue Account (£1 million). Discussions are ongoing regarding VAT implications, and the council will work with OnSide to ensure Welsh language provision is integrated into the facility. The preferred location for the youth zone is on the junction of Cowbridge Road and Mill Road, an area identified as one of the most deprived in the city. The project will involve extensive engagement with young people to ensure their voices are heard in the design and operational planning. Existing youth services in Ely will be protected and enhanced by the new facility.

International Sports Village (ISV)

The committee received an update on the International Sports Village (ISV) development, focusing on car parking proposals, the option agreement, and the future of key leisure assets. A permanent car park with approximately 900-1000 spaces will be developed on the former Toys R Us site, funded through private sector investment from an energy provider in exchange for rights to energy generation and provision. The council will retain ownership of the car park and its income, which will be ring-fenced for asset and public realm maintenance, including the boardwalk. The council is exploring options for the disposal or alternative operating models for the Cardiff Ice Arena and the Cardiff International White Water (CIWW) centre, with a soft market testing exercise to be conducted. The relocation of the Fun HQ play area to the Toys R Us building is also proposed. The council will take ownership of the boardwalk, with ongoing maintenance costs to be met through site income streams. Concerns were raised about the potential loss of leisure space due to the car park development, but it was noted that a previous leisure opportunity for the Toys R Us site had not progressed. The committee also flagged the need for future scrutiny of any proposals for the disposal or agency model for the leisure assets to ensure affordability for residents.

Visitor Levy Consultation

The committee discussed the results of a public consultation on the proposed introduction of a visitor levy in Cardiff. The consultation, which received nearly 2,000 responses, indicated broad support for the levy, with 62% of online respondents in favour. Key concerns raised by businesses included the administrative burden, potential negative impacts on visitor numbers, and the need for transparency and ring-fencing of funds. Residents also expressed a desire for the levy to benefit local communities and improve city centre cleanliness and infrastructure. The council has responded to these concerns by strengthening governance arrangements, reinforcing additionality safeguards, and committing to a comprehensive communication and engagement strategy. Representations will be made to Welsh Government regarding the potential exclusion of children from the levy. The committee noted that the council's previous scrutiny inquiry recommendations have been accepted and incorporated into the revised proposals. The proposed Visitor Levy Partnership Forum will include representatives from various sectors, with a commitment to ensuring diversity and resident representation through elected members.

Business Improvement District (BID) Renewal Ballot

The committee reviewed proposals for the renewal of the FOR Cardiff Business Improvement District (BID) for its third term. The BID is seeking to increase its levy rate from 1.06% to 1.6% and expand its area to include Cardiff Bay, which was supported by 68% of businesses consulted in that area. These changes aim to generate £2.6 million annually, totalling £13 million over the five-year term. The proposed priorities for the next term include making Cardiff safer, cleaner, and greener, improving connectivity, increasing reasons to visit, supporting a resilient and competitive capital, providing a voice for businesses, and developing skills and wellbeing. The council has confirmed its support in principle for the BID renewal and has delegated authority to the Director of Economic Development to oversee the ballot process and conclude an operating agreement. An advance payment to the BID is also proposed, subject to full repayment within the financial year. The council will cast its vote in the ballot in favour of the renewal, citing alignment with council plans and strategies.

The meeting also included a comfort break and a discussion on the Way Forward for future scrutiny. The next meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, 21 April 2026.

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