A significant affordable housing-led development, known as The Mill scheme, situated on the site of the former Arjo Wiggins paper mill in Ely, Cardiff, has reached its final phase of completion after over a decade of progress. This £150 million project, with half of its 800 homes designated for affordable rent, has been a collaborative effort involving funding from Principality Commercial, Welsh Government, Tirion Homes, Lovell, and Cadwyn Housing Association.
Tirion Homes, a community benefit society established by the Welsh Government and Principality Building Society, has been fundamental in delivering affordable housing without grant funding. The recent completion of 157 affordable homes, managed by Cadwyn Housing Association, marks a significant milestone in providing accommodation for low to moderate-income households in Cardiff.
As part of the development, the project has included infrastructure improvements such as new roads, a viaduct, and enhanced flood defences, along with the creation of a riverside park featuring green spaces, a children’s play area, and cycle paths. Additionally, the scheme includes five commercial units available for rent, managed by Tirion Homes in collaboration with prospective tenants.
Noteworthy plans for a new train station at The Mill have been identified by Transport for Wales as a priority, although definitive funding for this proposal remains pending, similar to planned stations at Roath Park and Gabalfa. However, confirmed funding is allocated for new South Wales Metro stations in Butetown and Crwys Road.
Leaders involved in the project, such as Richard Wales from Principality Building Society and David Ward from Tirion Homes, have expressed pride and optimism regarding the development’s successful transformation from a disused industrial site to a vibrant, sustainable community hub. They emphasise the project’s contribution to providing accessible housing options and fostering sustainable communities in Wales.
This initiative exemplifies the dedication of all partners involved, including Lovell, Cadwyn, Principality Building Society, and the Welsh Government, in creating a thriving community with homes designed to cater to the needs of current and future generations. The completion of The Mill scheme represents a significant step towards addressing the demand for quality affordable housing and signifies a positive shift in the ongoing urban regeneration efforts across Cardiff.