Our Vision for cardiff
Cardiff Civic Society has published its Vision for Cardiff.
Cardiff Civic Society believes that a truly modern city, one that is fit for future challenges, must put the needs of its citizens and the planet first, embodying values such as social justice, equality, placing communities at the heart of decision making, as well as addressing climate change and biodiversity loss.
In our view, Cardiff’s civic leadership has permitted development that is often of poor design; fails to interact with adjoining neighbourhoods; and lacks sufficient and appropriate public open and green space. Developments that are neither liveable or sociable, sustainable or adaptable. In the pursuit of growth, the city has destroyed many of its assets, both natural and historic, and has failed to bring an end to inequality and deprivation. Experience during COVID has shown the extent of different dimensions of inequality in our city, including racial inequality.
Cardiff Civic Society would like Cardiff to be a city where:
the planning system works for citizens, rather than for developers
climate change and biodiversity loss are taken seriously and acted upon accordingly
the “15 minute city” concept is adopted and used to frame the city’s growth
affordable homes and decent jobs are available for all
citizens are actively encouraged to participate in decisions about our city
the pursuit of social and environmental justice is at the heart of decision-making and action
Projects based on similar principles have been put into practice in San Francisco, Bogota, Copenhagen, London, Calgary and Bristol.
There is no reason why Cardiff, the capital of Wales, cannot follow their example.
Creating a people-centred, sustainable, city demands a radical change of heart. But it has to happen if we are to create a future we all can and want to live in.
Read the full version of Our Vision Cardiff
February 2022
