Michael Lawley, Chairman of Cooke & Arkwright said, “Cardiff is a great place in which to live, work and play, and has a huge amount to offer on a professional, cultural and personal level. We were delighted to read this report which clearly vindicates the confidence we have in conducting our business and dealing especially with inward investment to the area. Cardiff has set an ambitious course for future growth with major housing schemes such as Plasdwr getting under way, along with significant office and retail development attracting new businesses and investment to Central Square, Capital Quarter and Cardiff Waterside. We need to unlock further growth across all of Wales through the Cardiff Capital Region deal and other collaborations. Cities such as Newport and Swansea have attracted a lot of investment in the last few years and are undergoing similar transformations which are raising their profiles in very positive ways. The potential for new major infrastructure projects such as the Swansea tidal lagoon scheme and the M4 relief road now need to be taken forward to help take the whole South Wales region to the next level.”
Ben Bolton, Director of Business Space said, “These are exciting times for Cardiff, with work well under way at Central Square on the new BBC Headquarters, along with thousands of square feet of new office and retail accommodation, a new transport hub and train station redevelopment, all of which will provide a new gateway to the city. There has been a tangible shift by occupiers and investors alike who cannot fail to see that the city is making a substantial step up. Pre-let activity is at an all time high, showing confidence in its long term regional plans and relative value for money compared to other regional cities, despite significant rental increases for prime new space.
“With complimentary infrastructure improvements and housing plans happening simultaneously, Cardiff has an enviable platform for significant growth over the next five years.”