Category: Local Elections

Phil Bale: Labour – Llanishen

We’ve invited all the local election candidates to complete this questionnaire so you know more about the people asking for your vote on the 4th of May. We’re also compiling a list of their websites and social media accounts so you can follow them and get in touch if you have any questions.

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Phil Bale

Name – Phil Bale
Party – Labour
Ward – Llanishen
Website – welshlabour.wales
Twitter – @PhilBale
Facebook – llanishenlabour17
How can people get in touch with you? – llanishenthornhilllabour@gmail.com

About You

Tell us about yourself

https://cardiffleadersblog.wordpress.com/biography/

What are the biggest issues in your ward?

Restoring Llanishen Reservoir & securing the return of sailing and leisure activities for the community with new owners Dwr Cymru/Welsh Water.
Secure the future of the local Police Station and Library in Llanishen and Thornhill by creating a new Community Hub in the Police Station building.
Raising school standards even further.
Better transport links, including walking, cycling and local bus services.
Improving local parks and neighbourhood shopping centres, such as Fishguard Road and Llangranog Road in Llanishen.

What’s your favourite place in Cardiff and why?

Just one?!!! I’m a big fan of the Look Out Café in the World of Boats attraction down in Cardiff Bay. Its terrace has some of the best views you’ll find looking out across the Cardiff Bay waterfront and owner Graham and his wife are fantastic too! In Llanishen, ‘Yogamobility’ is another hidden gem who provide specialist yoga sessions for people with all forms of physical and mental disability. They are based in a slightly hidden cottage retreat off Fidlas Road but often have fundraising events and I always find a warm welcome for visitors!

What do you think should be done to improve engagement in politics?

Locally, the City Council needs to extend its use of social media networks and look at more ways in which the views of local residents can be taken into account when making decisions. Cardiff Labour are also committed to extending the use of webcasting of Council meetings so that residents can follow the work of their local representatives more easily. The Planning Committee is now webcast and this has attracted lots of views.

I also support the current proposal from Welsh Government extend voting rights to 16 and 17 year olds for Welsh elections, as is the case in Scotland.

What’s your favourite film?

Citizen Kane.

If You’re Elected

What will you do to improve your ward?

Campaign to restore Llanishen Reservoir and bring back sailing and other leisure activities
Work to ensure our schools continue to improve
Work to improve our local shopping centres and open spaces
Support a new Llanishen library and community hub
Continue to hold regular Councillor surgeries

How will you communicate with residents in your ward?

As local Welsh Labour Councillors, Garry Hunt, Julia Magill and myself have held regular surgeries in both Llanishen and Thornhill as well as attended the regular PACT meetings with the Police in Llanishen and in Thornhill.

We have also produced a regular newsletter and now have a new ‘Facebook’ page where we regularly post updates on what we’ve been doing as local councillors, all of which I would plan to continue.

What issues that affect the whole city would you like to get involved in?

I’d want to help Cardiff make the most of hosting June’s Champions League Football Final – the world’s biggest sporting event this year – which will attract thousands to Cardiff and a worldwide TV audience of over 200m people! It’s a great chance for our city to once again shine on a world stage! Other interests include better cycling and public transport, the regeneration of Central Square and Cardiff Bay and potential bids for European Green Capital and Capital of Culture!

As a growing and successful Capital City, it’s also vital the UK Government’s negotiations to take Cardiff out of the European Union (EU) doesn’t damage local jobs or the city’s economy. We will need to work hard to secure more funding and more powers for Cardiff to help the City Council get on with creating an even better city. Cardiff has always been an outward looking city and will remain a part of the European continent, so we must continue to work with cities across Europe to create jobs and promote peace and good community relations.

Final Comments

What would you change about Cardiff and why?

I’d bring trams back to Cardiff because we need them!

Any final comments?

I’d just like to thank residents in Llanishen and Thornhill for giving me, Garry and Julia the opportunity to represent the area since 2012 – and whether you voted for us or not – I hope you’ll consider putting your faith in your local Welsh Labour Team to keep delivering locally on Thursday May 4th!

Penny Owen: Labour – Heath

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Penny Owen

Name – Penny Owen
Party – Labour
Ward – Heath
Website – heathandbirchgrovelabour.org.uk
Twitter – @HeathBirchLAB
Facebook – heathbirchgrovelabour
How can people get in touch with you? – By email, phone 07929140157, Twitter.

About You

Tell us about yourself

I have lived in the Heath and Birchgrove Ward for over 30 years – it’s a great place to live! I used to work in the NHS and I know how valuable it is to have a public service which is free for us to use when we need it and that is available to everyone. I want a country that works for everyone – not just the few.

What are the biggest issues in your ward?

As the Heath Hospital site has become busier so the overflow car parking has become more of a problem for local residents. Our local Labour Councillor, Graham Hinchey, has been listening to residents and working with Heath Residents Association to get this solved. We are working to encourage more people to take public transport, to cycle and to walk, and to build more Park and Ride schemes to reduce the amount of traffic in our roads. We will be consulting with local residents about 20mph zones in Heath and Birchgrove to reduce the speed of traffic on the roads. Wedal Rd will be staying open until improved local facilities are in place.

What’s your favourite place in Cardiff and why?

My favourite place in Cardiff is my allotment. Our parks, green spaces and allotments are very important for the health of all of us.

What do you think should be done to improve engagement in politics?

Politicians should respect voters, tell the truth and do what is in the best interests of the people.

And more websites like My Cardiff North!

What’s your favourite film?

Bladerunner.

If You’re Elected

What will you do to improve your ward?

Listen to residents’ concerns and work with them to solve problems and develop Heath and Birchgrove in the best interests of all of us.
Wedal Rd will remain open until better local facilities are in place.
Help solve the parking problems. Reduce traffic and traffic speed.
Protect all our green spaces.
Continue to invest in our schools Support our excellent local shops and businesses.
Support the vulnerable and those most affected by austerity.

How will you communicate with residents in your ward?

I will communicate with residents by talking with them, writing and distributing a regular newsletter, holding surgeries and through Twitter, Facebook and our website.

What issues that affect the whole city would you like to get involved in?

I would like to get involved with continuing to improve our green spaces, parks and allotments.

As a regular No 27 bus user I want to improve our public transport, make cycling easier and safer and encourage more people to walk, and make our roads safer.

Final Comments

What would you change about Cardiff and why?

I would change the public transport system so that more people could leave their cars at home.

I would change the culture of drinking all hours in the city centre so that everyone could feel safe visiting there.

Cardiff is well known as a very friendly city where everyone knows someone that you know! I would definitely work to keep that.

Any final comments?

Thanks for putting together this questionnaire Jack.

Matt Hexter: Labour – Gabalfa

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Matt Hexter

Name – Matt Hexter
Party – Labour
Ward – Gabalfa
Website –
Twitter – @hexter101
Facebook – GabalfaGydaiGilydd
How can people get in touch with you? – matthew.r.hexter@gmail.com, Twitter of Facebook message.

About You

Tell us about yourself

My name is Matt and I was born in Cardiff and have lived here my entire life minus a short stint studying law in London. I returned back to our incredible capital city two years to study my masters in devolution and now I work as a community liaison and caseworker in Newport. I live in Gabalfa, the place where my parents and Grandparents bought their first homes and hopefully I will do the same one day soon. I am a second language Welsh speaker and you will often see my striding round the streets of Gabalfa with my orange ‘Cymraeg’ badge. I live with my partner Chloe and we look forward to owning a home mainly so we can own a dog.

What are the biggest issues in your ward?

In Gabalfa it all boils down to roads. Whether it is parking on them, how fast you can travel down them or the holes that appear in them, Gabalfa’s main issue is its roads. Though the pressures on the roads reveal other problems. There’s a housing crisis because of which children now have to spend longer living with their parents and end up taking extra car parking spaces which would otherwise go to other local residents as well as a £12 billion shortfall in funding for local authorities from the UK Government in road maintenance. Although the pressures show on the roads, the problems go much deeper.

What’s your favourite place in Cardiff and why?

Roath Park is a gorgeous place full of my childhood memories. Whether going on a rowing boat or getting chased by the geese, there is always something to do at Roath Park. The rose garden is one of my favourite places to just sit and think, and the wild gardens have a number of fantastic bridges for playing pooh sticks. It is a perfect place for children of all ages, even grown up ones.

What do you think should be done to improve engagement in politics?

Politics for me is in everything. It is the roads we drive on to the cost of a pint of milk. The burden is on politicians both at a local and national level to remind people of that, to make politics real to people, not an abstract theory or ideology but a way of changing people’s lives for the better. As such, it is important that people feel that their voices are being heard and that political parties deliver on their promises so as not to disenfranchise people. People feel all too often we are all the same, it is our responsibility to prove that we are different and that we can deliver. Only by making people see that politics makes a difference will they become engaged.

What’s your favourite film?

High Fidelity.

If You’re Elected

What will you do to improve your ward?

The first thing I would do if elected is solve the parking nightmare for local residents. Previous administrations run by a range of political parties have not done sufficient work to ensure that if you pay for a parking permit, you get a place to park. If elected I would petition the Council’s leadership to ensure a higher percentage of parking spaces were reserved for residents. I would ensure this was done in consultation with local residents and businesses to ensure a fair deal for all who want to live and work in our wonderful area. Secondly I will fight to ensure that Gabalfa gets investment in its roads. Cardiff Labour is committed to spending £540,000 on road repairs and I will make the strongest case possible that Gabalfa deserves its fair share of that funding.

How will you communicate with residents in your ward?

If elected, I will ensure I have a number of channels of communication which remain open with all residents. I will ensure that I hold regular Councillor Surgeries all across the ward so that residents can come and discuss anything that may be affected them, I will make sure that these surgeries are advertised both online as well as via posters and notices across the ward. Additionally I will publicise my contact details and encourage communication via phone call or email or via Twitter or Facebook if the resident prefers. I will regularly attend PACT meetings with whoever is also elected as a Councillor for Gabalfa and ensure that residents are notified of when those meetings are set to take place.

What issues that affect the whole city would you like to get involved in?

I am eager to become involved in the Cardiff City Deal. The £1.2 Billion investment into our city is a fantastic opportunity to provide jobs and growth for our capital, but it will also bring its challenges alongside its benefits. I want to get involved with the city deal to ensure that it is not only the businesses of Cardiff who see the rewards of this deal, but its residents too. I want to see the investment extend beyond the city centre and the few wards that surround it, I want to see a deal that works for the whole of Cardiff and the whole of the City region.

Final Comments

What would you change about Cardiff and why?

As it appears that changing the climate of a City is a bit beyond even a councillors powers, I think that the best thing we could do to improve Cardiff would be to improve the connectivity of our City. For example if you want to go from one part of the City to another on the train, more often than not, your only option would be go into the City centre and then back out again. Having a rail service (a publicly run one at that) which allowed you to cross the city would not only be incredibly helpful for commuters and families but would prevent the over centralisation that has often been a problem in Cardiff.

Any final comments?

There are many exciting opportunities and challenges facing our city in the next few years, I hope that you can trust me to be your representative through these changing times. I promise to be an effective communicator and advocate on your behalf, fighting for the best deal for us all.

I will always stick up for Gabalfa and for Cardiff because it is my home, it would be an honour to do so as your Councillor.

Julia Burns: Plaid Cymru – Whitchurch and Tongwynlais

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Julia Loaring

Name – Julia Burns
Party – Plaid Cymru
Ward – Whitchurch and Tongwynlais
Website –
Twitter –
Facebook – julia.burnsloaring
How can people get in touch with you? –juliaburnsloaring@gmail.com

About You

Tell us about yourself

I was born in Cardiff in 1950, to parents of Irish & English extraction. I grew up in Cathays & Canton, (now Pontcanna!). Educated at Heathfield House in Richmond Rd. Trained as a teacher in Cardiff College of Education in 1970-73. Moved to the Vale of Glamorgan in 1971 until coming home to Whitchurch in 1981. Learned Welsh as an adult & graduated in Welsh from Cardiff University in 1984. Spent 7 years living in the Caernarfon area & working as Education Officer for Gwynedd Archives & Museums. Returned to Whitchurch in 1991 & resumed my teaching career: teaching at Llanhari, Cantonian and St Illtyd’s High Schools. Now I’m semi-retired as I still teach adults now & then, I have time to give back to our community as a local Councillor. I know & love our area and I feel passionately about it.

What are the biggest issues in your ward?

Long Meadow & the consequent destruction of extremely important wildlife habitat & open space. Access & hugely increased traffic would be a major problem in our ward. Parking & traffic flow is already bad, especially in Velindre / Kelston Rd, Maes Glas / St David’s Rd & the area around Glan y Nant. Litter is a problem to be tackled in all areas, but particularly in Whitchurch village and Library Park. Old shop frontages in roads like Westbourne need a facelift. We must fight too for our library. Keep our village attractive by clamping down on litter.

What’s your favourite place in Cardiff and why?

In Cardiff my favourite place is our stretch of the Glamorganshire Canal at Melin Gruffydd. Forest Farm is our very own gem and Long Meadow is part of it. I have lived in Whitchurch for almost all my adult life and spent much of my teenage years here too. Our village is still a village. Shopping locally must be encouraged & young people encouraged to respect their local area. A permanent History of Whitchurch exhibition would be an asset in the Library.

What do you think should be done to improve engagement in politics?

I tend towards compulsory voting as has long been the case in Australia. People fought and died for the right to have a say in government. Lessons in how democracy works could be part of the PSE curriculum in all schools.

What’s your favourite film?

Rob Roy starring Liam Neeson & Jessica Lainge. Tim Roth & John Hurt are superb adversaries to the hero. He is a real hero: brave, strong, loyal. I know the details aren’t accurate, but his character in the film is truly heroic.

If You’re Elected

What will you do to improve your ward?

I will work to oppose destruction of Long Meadow. I will work to improve traffic flow in the Village, particularly in Velindre / Kelston / Foreland Roads. I will support initiatives to cut down on litter and excess packaging. I will do my best to support our Library and our public spaces so that they remain available for our enjoyment.

How will you communicate with residents in your ward?

I am available by email, phone or post.

What issues that affect the whole city would you like to get involved in?

Transportation including local trains, litter and recycling, libraries, parks & open spaces especially areas for exercise & games.

Final Comments

What would you change about Cardiff and why?

I want to stop litter and loutish behaviour. We have a beautiful city. Young people need to feel they own it too & be proud of it. If you know your Cardiff like I do and feel you are part of a community that actually values you, hopefully you will want to respect your environment. We need to show we care for young people and also for the homeless people who live on our streets. They must know where they can find refuge and support to reintegrate into the community. Supporting causes that work with homeless people in our city is important for any councillor.

Any final comments?

Non submitted (Editor)

Gill Griffin: Plaid Cymru – Llandaff North

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Gill Griffin

Name – Gill Griffin
Party – Plaid Cymru
Ward – Llandaff North
Website –
Twitter – @plaidystumtaf
Facebook – Llandaff North Voice
How can people get in touch with you? – Llaisystumtaf@gmail.com

About You

Tell us about yourself

I am a Welsh speaker and have lived in Ystum Taf for 32 years. I was born in Pembrokeshire and left school at 18 to train as a nurse in Cardiff. I have also lived in Caerffili, Birmingham and Splott, as well as 8 months as a volunteer on a kibbutz in Israel. I have two children who both live in Cardiff. I was an active member of Plaid Cymru when I lived in Caeffili; I also became very involved in the anti nuclear movement. I abhor nuclear weapons and am opposed to nuclear power. Apart from work I spend time on my allotment which is a community in itself. My other important interest is singing in Côr y Gleision / Cardiff Blues Choir and follow Cardiff Blues Rugby team, as well as Wales of course! I love travelling and reading; there are still many places on my bucket list to see – finances allowing!

What are the biggest issues in your ward?

The build up of rubbish along out streets , and the potholes in our streets and lanes . The neglected bowling green and tennis courts in Hailey Park. Over development in terms of housing estates which has a negative impact on transport, traffic, GP services and schools.

What’s your favourite place in Cardiff and why?

Llandaff North and the canal, followed by the Castle Grounds, accessed via the cycle path, because of the people and the beauty of the environment. Another favourite place is the Sherman Theatre which puts on so many great plays and shows.

What do you think should be done to improve engagement in politics?

People need to feel it is worthwhile contacting their Councillor to highlight issues . This means prompt response to questions and prompt action as soon as is possible. False promises will not give people faith in the political system. Young people’s views on local as well as national issues could be sought via youth clubs, schools and social media. Involvement with residents associations, holding hustings, surgeries are also important.

What’s your favourite film?

The Sting.

If You’re Elected

What will you do to improve your ward?

Endeavour to effect the 7 pledges in Plaid Cymru’s Manifesto. Locally this will include upgrading the Tennis Courts in Hailey Park, widening the cycle path to accommodate cyclists, individual and family walkers. Road Sweepers and more bins to keep our streets clean. Improving the reliability of the bus service through Llandaff North. Promote the uptake of allotment rentals. Promote the inclusion of young people in community issues.

How will you communicate with residents in your ward?

By holding regular surgeries. Maintaining the Llandaff North Voice newsletters and inviting people to contact me with any concerns. Make phone numbers and emails available to residents at the library/the Hub, GP surgeries and local shops.

What issues that affect the whole city would you like to get involved in?

The misguided development of our green field sites. Zero hour contracts which keep people struggling to survive, and the unfair bedroom tax . Companies that make decisions to increase rents on outlets, close local pubs and music venues with no consideration of the effects on Cardiff families, communities and on employment.

Final Comments

What would you change about Cardiff and why?

Promote Welsh language education according to demand. Promote dyslexia friendly schools to ensure dyslexic children are not disadvantaged. End the development of our green field sites. Encourage provision of solar panels on all new builds. Campaign for free parking at UHW for staff and visitors.

Any final comments?

Let us all work for an improved Cardiff that is worthy of becoming a Capital of Culture. Diolch yn fawr.

Dominic Eggbeer: Liberal Democrats – Whitchurch and Tongwynlais

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Dominic Eggbeer

Name – Dominic Eggbeer
Party – Liberal Democrats
Ward – Whitchurch and Tongwynlais
Website – cardiffld.org.uk
Twitter – @cardifflibdems
Facebook – cardiffld
How can people get in touch with you? – Via the Cardiff Lib Dems Twitter site or Facebook. Post a question in relation to Tongwynlais/Whitchurch.

About You

Tell us about yourself

I’ve lived in Cardiff since 1997 and raised my family here. I moved to Tongwynlais in 2004 and appreciate the diversity of the area, and the way it combines access to the great outdoors and city life. I am passionate about outdoor activities, so living in N Cardiff provides excellent access for my family and I to escape, play in the mud, and enjoy the surroundings. I work at Cardiff Met Uni helping to pioneer new ways of using design in surgery and prosthetic procedures. My work enables me to collaborate with fantastic people in the NHS and private sector. It’s a rewarding position that enables my team and I to overcome complex healthcare challenges which leads to improved outcomes for patients and the efficiency of procedures. I got involved with the Liberal Democrats since I hold the values of fairness, openness and tolerance dear. My day job reinforces the strength collaboration can bring to solving issues; I seek to apply the same principles in politics.

What are the biggest issues in your ward?

I see one of the major issues being congestion. The roads through Tongwynlais and Whitchurch are extremely busy at peak periods, which is dangerous, and polluting. Cardiff has become a gridlocked city during rush hour, causing commuter misery, wasted time, pollution and stress. N Cardiff is a superb place to live, with a fantastic community feel, but the blight of traffic needs to be addressed. Evidence supports the need for better public transport networks, improved infrastructure for cycling/walking (we’re blessed with the Taff Trail running near/though the area) that will give people a more viable option to choose a less impactful way to work. Complemented by changes in the way businesses offer flexible working, secure cycle parking, better-designed cycle parking, improved trains and other changes, we could help to reduce the misery of through traffic congestion. Other issues include littering, burglaries and relatively low levels of anti-social behaviour. I look to residents to highlight other problems.

What’s your favourite place in Cardiff and why?

1 favourite place is hard to pick! I love Forest Farm, but also the woods behind Castle Coch. I can spend many family hours in just these areas. I also love all of the fields and parks sandwiched between the city centre and the A48.

What do you think should be done to improve engagement in politics?

Politicians often have a bad reputation for being self-serving. For that to change, people need to be listened to; people/parties that more accurately reflect the values of community, fairness and empowerment need to be elected. At the macro scale: a) Ensure politicians more accurately reflect their constitutions (the political class is currently out of touch with the people they purport to represent). b) Stop the lies and blame culture, which have become so prevalent in politics. C) Ensure the media have a free and, importantly, balanced voice. At a local level, people need to be made aware that politics affects everything and that they have the power to change for the better. Community meetings and social media could play an important role in ensuring politics is accessible by all. Politicians and politics should also be geared up to ensure the long-term health, wealth and environmental interests of our people. Engaging younger generations is therefore extremely important. Ensuring that near-to-voting age people are well informed about the importance of political engagement is also crucial to ensure that they vote.

What’s your favourite film?

Ex Machina is a recent favourite.

If You’re Elected

What will you do to improve your ward?

Addressing issues of traffic congestion by working with the Cardiff Active Travel plan, promotion of a better infrastructure and public transport system are an immediate priority. This will help to ensure our communities are safer and environment more pleasant. I would also ensure that new housing developments and other major infrastructure changes that affect the area are properly scrutinised for local impact. N Cardiff is an area targeted for house building, yet the infrastructure is not equipped to accommodate the increases in traffic. I would also seek to protect our green spaces and ensure the value of parks and social areas are maintained for all to enjoy.

How will you communicate with residents in your ward?

I would set up and promote:

Online surveys (to capture a broad understanding of the issues that affect the area).
Host regular meetings with residents (to focus on the most important issues).

I would also:

Provide regular feedback through local meetings, online and social media (to ensure that people are listened to).
Seek evidence to support decision making (to ensure that decisions are based on well-considered arguments and that people get the best value).

What issues that affect the whole city would you like to get involved in?

Whilst there are numerous local issues affecting Cardiff, one of the primary that affects everybody is road traffic and congestion. We’re blessed with a superb city, fantastic green spaces and huge potential to offer better walking, cycling, public transport, and more intelligently laid out road networks. Enabling people to get around more efficiently and cheaply using alternatives to cars has proven health and productivity benefits. I would get even move involved in the development of Cardiff’s Active Travel Plan to ensure that people have the opportunity to benefit from a better infrastructure system that protects our economy, health and the environment.

Final Comments

What would you change about Cardiff and why?

Cardiff is a culturally and geographically rich place. I would like to ensure that as the capital of Wales, it remains a beacon of liberal values and promotes a sense of community, tolerance, and fairness. I change like to change the way infrastructure was considered in order to protect green spaces, public services, and the rights of people to enjoy the things that are free in life.

Any final comments?

Cardiff is creative, innovative and outward-looking. The Liberal Democrats are the only party fighting to keep Britain open, tolerant and united. We are also the only party that combines economic competence with a plan for strong public services and an optimistic vision for a Britain that is open, tolerant and united. Tongwynlais and Whitchurch deserve a party that will stand up for the rights of the diverse community we live in, protect our environment, and support our economy. The Liberal Democrats are that party. Discover more at http://www.libdems.org.uk/issues.

Rhys Taylor: Liberal Democrats – Gabalfa

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Rhys Taylor

Name – Rhys Taylor
Party – Liberal Democrats
Ward – Gabalfa
Website –
Twitter – @syhrtaylor
Facebook – gabalfafocusteam
How can people get in touch with you? – rhystaylor892@gmail.com

About You

Tell us about yourself

I grew up in Pontypridd before moving to Bangor to complete my undergraduate degree. I’ve since lived in Cardiff with my partner and our seven month old golden labrador retriever. I’m currently studying a part-time masters at Cardiff University and work as a Policy and Communications Officer. As a Welsh speaker I applied to become a School Governor at Ysgol Mynydd Bychan, and I have thoroughly enjoyed getting to know teachers, parents, and the wider school community. I also been a Trustee for a University Students’ Union for three years and was previously President of my Students’ Union. I enjoy travelling and have been known to let Eurovision decide which city I visit. When I’m not busy in work, campaigning, out walking with the dog, or in a meeting, I enjoy a good book, a good film, and gin. Education was one of the issues that got me involved in politics in the first place. I’ve been involved in politics since I was around 16 years old after getting involved in a campaign to save my secondary school. I felt that young people weren’t being listened to and that decisions were being made without engaging with the people that they would affect. Since then I’ve been involved in campaigning to make it easier to get young people onto public transport, to improve standards in rented housing, and to improve community mental health services.

What are the biggest issues in your ward?

The biggest issues facing Gabalfa are the state of our streets, parking, local transport, and support for local businesses. We’ve seen our streets get progressively dirtier over the years – lanes are left unswept, fly tipping is left for weeks on end, and the closure of Wedal Road stands to make the situation worse. More and more people are commenting on how dirty our area can get at times, and it doesn’t reflect what a lovely area Gabalfa and Mynachdy is to live in and to visit. Parking for residents, shoppers and local business owners is a real problem. I’ve spoken to many residents who are thinking of moving or are in the process of moving due to the parking situation. This is completely unacceptable. Earlier this year I ran a Love Whitchurch Road campaign to celebrate local businesses and to highlight the issues that local business owners face. One of the key issues raised was that the lack of parking for shoppers and business owners is having a detrimental affect on trade. We have a great business community and a great deal of businesses in the area who bring so much to Gabalfa. The council should be doing all it can to support and enable small local businesses to grow.

What’s your favourite place in Cardiff and why?

As a dog walker I enjoy visiting different parks and green spaces across Cardiff. As great and lovely as Maitland Park is, my absolute favourite place to take my dog is Bute Park and onto the Taff Trail.

What do you think should be done to improve engagement in politics?

We need to make voting fairer, have representatives that reflect the communities they represent, make it easier to vote, and make our elected bodies more accountable to the people they represent. That means introducing fairer voting so seats reflect the number of votes cast by voters, introducing early voting, introducing same day registration, encouraging people from diverse backgrounds to stand for election – including young people – and get involved in politics. All elected representatives need to be constantly in touch with the people they represent so their work is transparent and accountable. Too many representatives are elected and aren’t seen until the next election – how can people expect to engage if they don’t know what their representative is doing? I also believe that we need to introduce better citizenship education, to include non-partisan political education, so young people are able to understand politics in the UK and the world and are able to use, and want to use, their vote. We should also lower the voting age to 16 for all elections in the UK.

What’s your favourite film?

Lord of the Rings (Return of the King)

If You’re Elected

What will you do to improve your ward?

I will be in constant communication with residents in Gabalfa to make sure that I know and understand what people’s concerns are and make sure that they are represented to the council. I will work proactively to find solutions to the issues facing residents in our area to make sure that we do everything we can to find solutions to the problems we face. I also want to work closely with local businesses so we can find ways of supporting them to grow and develop and to attract shoppers and visitors to Gabalfa. I also want to celebrate the local businesses our area has to offer. What’s more, whichever party is running Cardiff Council to stand up for our area and demand the best for the people of Gabalfa and Mynachdy. Our area has been let down over the last five years and we’re lucky to have had a councillor who has worked constantly to get the very best for our area. I want to continue that hard work.

How will you communicate with residents in your ward?

We pride ourselves on communicating and engaging with local residents all year round, every year, not just during elections. Gabalfa and Mynachdy Lib Dems distribute a monthly Focus newsletter which gives an overview of issues in the area and what our local campaigners and elected representatives are busying themselves with. We also deliver letters to residents when planning or licencing applications are made so residents are able to make their views known on the development. We also have an active Twitter and Facebook account which we use to keep residents posted on the latest issues and what we’ve been up to. We also attend all PACT meetings in Gabalfa to hear from residents and to speak directly with residents. We also regularly run petitions and knock on residents’ doors so we hear directly from residents what their concerns are.

What issues that affect the whole city would you like to get involved in?

I’m worried about the growing number of people who find themselves homeless on the streets of Cardiff and would like to see more done to build more affordable homes and prevent homelessness. I also want to support our local businesses across Cardiff so our business owners can succeed and grow. I also want to make sure that children and young people have access to the best education, the best services, and the best support whenever and wherever they need it.

Final Comments

What would you change about Cardiff and why?

Transport and housing. Public transport doesn’t work for local people and their needs, and areas like Mynachdy have lost local bus routes over the last few years. We need to make buses more responsive to the needs of community, and make sure that we link up public transport to cycling routes so people can better make their way around the city. I also want to see more affordable homes and more accommodation for young professionals that isn’t over priced or doesn’t have the necessary infrastructure to support new homes and accommodation.

Any final comments?

Thank you to My Cardiff North for running this survey and engaging with the elections so local people are aware of who wants to represent them on the council and the issues they are campaigning on.

Jennifer Burke Davies: Labour – Llandaff North

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Jennifer Burke Davies

Name – Jennifer Burke Davies
Party – Labour
Ward – Llandaff North
Website – llandaffnorthlabour.org.uk
Twitter – @jenb_davies
Facebook – llandaffnorthlab
How can people get in touch with you? – contact@llandaffnorthlabour.org.uk or Facebook

About You

Tell us about yourself

I moved to Cardiff 7 years ago, when I was working for Remploy. I met my husband, Ceri, not long after and we settled in Llandaff North, where my husband is from & went to school. My career has been spent in Welfare to Work, working across various contracts in West Yorkshire & Wales that have sought to assist people with complex barriers such as long term unemployment, disability, debt, learning difficulties or health conditions to return to sustainable work. Within this remit, I have worked directly on Department of a Work & Pensions contracts such as Pathways, Workstep & Flexible New Deal in addition to devolved contracts such as Jobs Growth Wales, Traineeships & Apprenticeships through the South East Wales valleys. This experience has been absolutely invaluable in enabling me to build relationships with individuals and I feel would directly benefit my ability to carry out casework on behalf of constituents in the Ward. In my spare time, Ceri & I enjoy walking our Miniature Schnauzer, Pretzel, through Hailey Park, I’m currently trying to learn Welsh, albeit slowly! And I’ve always particularly enjoyed photography although Ceri is much better it than I am!

What are the biggest issues in your ward?

From campaigning in the last 6 months & meeting residents around the Ward, every street is different but what we hear more often is speeding, car parking, pot holes and improvements to Hailey Park.

What’s your favourite place in Cardiff and why?

Llandaff North! There’s a great community feel here thanks to the residents who live & work here, it’s wonderful to have Hailey Park & the Taff Trail on our doorstep. There’s a great convenience to living here with transport into town being regular but with the benefit of not feeling like you’re living in a city. There are good schools and overall it’s a safe, quiet and welcoming place to live. I love that I know a lot of my neighbours too.

What do you think should be done to improve engagement in politics?

I think it’s a two way street for residents and local politicians to come to the table together. Councillors should be visible & approachable, I think this is achieved with regular surgeries and being open to contact from constituents but residents have to be able to know where they can find you & when which is why I think it’s really helpful Councillor Dilwar Ali has taken up surgeries at the new Hyb. Residents should be listened to through consultation, ultimately action taken in a ward affects them and, where possible, the consultation process should be as accessible as possible to inform the decision making process. I think the internet/twitter is a great tool but shouldn’t replace what can be achieved through face to face communication and open dialogue.

What’s your favourite film?

You’ve Got Mail or The Departed!

If You’re Elected

What will you do to improve your ward?

Speaking to residents throughout the Ward has informed our manifesto, we have committed to improving the Schools in our local community and this begins with an £8million investment into Gabalfa Primary/Ysgol Glan Ceubal. We’re committed to improving our parks and work has already started on clearing the Bowling Green in Hailey Park making way for the second phase. We’re committed to ensuring all pavements and roads are resurfaced across Llandaff North, we support the Safer Roads and “20 is plenty” campaigns, which will help improve traffic around the schools in the ward. We are committed to working with Keep sealed Tidy & Cardiff Council to ensure our streets are free of litter and well maintained. Dilwar & I are committed to continuing to hold regular Advice Surgeries in the Ward where residents can speak to us about their concerns and we can deal, effectively, with casework. The Cardiff Labour Manifesto is also available online: https://www.dropbox.com/s/qvdaduurm7huh3f/Cardiff%20Manifesto%20Amendment%20Digital.pdf?dl=0

How will you communicate with residents in your ward?

I would seek to improve our visibility to constituents, we have quarterly newsletters that reach every household in the ward but Facebook & Twitter is more immediate and also gives residents a means to contact us directly. Additionally, I’d be available by phone, email or face to face at surgeries – similarly, I’d never discourage someone from saying hello if they saw me in one of the shops or the rugby club!

What issues that affect the whole city would you like to get involved in?

I’d like to be involved with housing & education, infrastructure – there’s so much! One thing affects the other really – for instance housing is a big issue nationally, not just within Cardiff, the Cardiff Labour Group has committed to building 1000 new council houses which is fantastic but we desperately need the South Wales Metro in place to support the growth of our city. I’d like to see improved bus & rail services taking pressure off our roads, an improved cycle network. Ideally, I’d like to get stuck into a bit of everything!

Final Comments

What would you change about Cardiff and why?

The weather. Less rainy days! But practically, no city is perfect – I grew up in London & spent a number of years in Leeds before moving to Cardiff and I’ve never been happier anywhere as I am here. Yes the roads can be congested & the rail services require drastic improvement but in the time I’ve lived in this city, I’ve witnessed Cardiff come on in leaps and bounds. I feel incredibly lucky to live here and have the best of all worlds: city, countryside, mountains and sea all within a short distance. There isn’t anything I’d drastically change that isn’t already happening – I feel, soon, we’ll be in a position to compete/work with Bristol, Bath and other cities in the U.K. – I really think we’re heading in the right direction.

Any final comments?

Non submitted (Editor)

Helen Kalliope Smith: Plaid Cymru – Heath

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Helen Kalliope Smith

Name – Helen Kalliope Smith
Party – Plaid Cymru
Ward – Heath
Website –
Twitter –
Facebook – Plaid Cymru – Ward y Mynydd Bychan – Heath Ward
How can people get in touch with you? – email (TBC)

About You

Tell us about yourself

I was born and bred in the Heath and, having taken early retirement, moved back to my childhood home. My parents met in Athens during the Second World War, when my father was in the Army, working as a cartographer with the Royal Engineers. When they initially met, they had no communication problems as, by fortunate coincidence, both had been very good at French whilst at secondary school! They got married on 30 December 1945 and set up home initially in Resolven, before moving to the Heath, Cardiff in the late 1940s. After completing my secondary education, I studied for my degree at Aberystwyth University, and subsequently found employment as a translator for Gwynedd Council, where I worked from 1979 until 1997, when I moved to work at Bangor University. My experience with local government has given me valuable knowledge of how local government works and about the various departments which make up a local authority – from Finance, Education and Amenities, through to Highways and Planning. Apart from politics, my interests include Music (vocal and piano), singing operatic arias, creative writing, and I also speak 6 languages: Welsh, English, Greek, French, Italian and Spanish. I have travelled, not only to Greece and other European countries, but also to South America – Uruguay and Argentina – a trip which included a stay at Trelew, Patagonia, where I spoke Welsh to some people who had never set foot in Wales. Some people know me as the Crazy Cat-lady of St Ina Rd, as I have 4 cats, two of whom have, in the passed, followed me around – a behaviour which I am keen to discourage. As I speak to my cats exclusively in Greek, I tell people that they are Greek-speaking cats.

What are the biggest issues in your ward?

The condition of roads and, in particular, pavements, many of which need to be reflagged, as the stones have become uneven in places, and therefore dangerous. I believe that a pro-active stance needs to be taken, i.e. the anticipation and prevention of accidents, rather than taking remedial action subsequently. Moreover, the optimum speed along certain roads in the area is far below 30mph, so that, ideally, the current 20mph restriction along part of Maesycoed Road should be extended to cover the side-streets. At the very least, remionder-lights should be positioned close to the business area of St Isan Road and also along Heathway, designed to flash approaching vehicles with the speed they are doing. Welsh-medium education is another issue, with demand for places at Ysgol y Mynydd Bychan far exceeding the provision.

What’s your favourite place in Cardiff and why?

Chapter would rank very high, especially for its international cinema, also other theatres and venues for entertainment; the Pineapple in Llandaff North also provides regular karaoke evenings – a must for any aspiring singer!

What do you think should be done to improve engagement in politics?

Communication with people – printed newsletters, also informing people of what councillors do and how important it is for people to participate in the democratic process. Children also need to learn about the history of the democratic process whilst at school, with special emphasis on the Chartists and also the Suffragette movement in the UK, with comparable studies of the development of this process in other countries. I believe that much hinges on what our young people are taught at school and, if elected, I would try to ensure that the curriculum helped to convince young students of the relevance of politics, at all levels, to their everyday lives.

What’s your favourite film?

The Sound of Music

If You’re Elected

What will you do to improve your ward?

Draw attention to current dangers – roads and pavements, and endeavour to slow cars down – I’ve seen many examples of speeding, in particular along St Isan Rd and Heathway. Education also merits attention; if Ysgol y Mynydd Bychan is too small to cope with current and foreseen demand, then steps need to be taken to improve matters.

How will you communicate with residents in your ward?

Primarily through printed newsletters, hopefully on a regular basis, also by attending events in the locality and saying Hello.

What issues that affect the whole city would you like to get involved in?

Education, Highways and Traffic Management, Social Care, Planning – care should be taken so as not to grant permission to build new estates which are too large, as the consequences could be very serious, not only for congestion, but also for any sudden surge in demand for public services. Any large-scale developments need to be well thought out beforehand, and not simply ushered in. I would also strive to keep local libraries open everywhere, as they are very important, especially to young people. Finances are always tight and resources always finite, therefore it is vital that funds should be prioritised so that services which people have historically taken for granted can remain and, in fact, improve.

Final Comments

What would you change about Cardiff and why?

Improvements to roads and pavements, also a proactive approach to the provision of Welsh-medium education in the city, with enough foresight to envisage demand. so that it can be satisfied in the very areas where demand is seen to be increasing.

Any final comments?

If elected, promise to do my very best to serve the interests of the electors and to listen to any concerns which they may bring to my notice.

Steffan Webb: Plaid Cymru – Llandaff North

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SteffanWebb

Name – Steffan Webb
Party – Plaid Cymru
Ward – Llandaff North
Website –
Twitter – @plaidystumtaf
Facebook – Llandaff North Voice
How can people get in touch with you? – Llaisystumtaf@gmail.com

About You

Tell us about yourself

Cardiff born and bred, father and grandfather with 4 children/step children and 2.5 grandchildren. Sblot, Trowbridge, St Mellons estates before 30 years in Cardiff North. Lived in Llandaff North for 8 years. I run on some Saturday mornings, watch CCFC on Saturday afternoons and always mean to go to the gym. I read a lot. Worked on Community Development and as a Welsh Language activist having developed the Menter Iaith brand. Hoping to put those skills to work for all in Llandaff North. Learnt Welsh as an adult, taught Welsh to adults, currently finishing course on translation but hoping to be a full time councillor. Keen to attract more projects and investment to the area. Community action can lead to many improvments. Gave up supporting Labour some two years ago when they voted for austerity and seemed to forget what they are supposed to be doing.

What are the biggest issues in your ward?

We need to get the basics right. Rubbish and dog mess is a big issue, maintenance of streets and pavements and park facilities. 20 is plenty on our crowded roads and our petition is well supported and has made many aware of the issue. Health, fitness, sport and provsion for young people is key. Inappropriate speculative housing developments will lead to more transport problems so we need to improve train / metro transport and encourage bikes and walking. Local business opportunities need to be supported as well as dealing with social isolation and care needs. Religious groups can and do help with this. Education provides a way forward for all and literacy can open many doors and provide many benefits. Community groups and local businesses can all help with this.

What’s your favourite place in Cardiff and why?

I love all of Cardiff and couldn’t possibly choose between the river, the parks, town and the bay. The football / rugby / Tafwyl / pubs and restaurants. OK my own house with good food and good company or a good book. Come to that most coffee shops and pubs with the same company or book.

What do you think should be done to improve engagement in politics?

We need to talk as in listen and answer e-mails and respond to the concerns of all people. Politicians need to be available. We need to be honest. We need to link policy answers to real problems. Social media will help with this but traditional meetings, hustings and papers are needed as well. Our local PACT could work better if the community want it. Young people should get to vote earlier and learn how politics works. All people need to be inspired to take an interest and to vote. Brexit and the SNP show that people can get inspired when the issues appeal to them.

What’s your favourite film?

Pieces of April but not too often. Sorry!

If You’re Elected

What will you do to improve your ward?

We have an extensive Cardiff Plaid maniffesto with 7 pledges and there are details below. Specific ward improvments include, investment in the area, support youth development projects, support for improvements at Hailey Park, 20 is plenty on the roads, more bins and cleaner streets, changes to try to improve parking and traffic problems and campaign for extra rail / metro stop at Gabalfa.

How will you communicate with residents in your ward?

Our Llandaff North Voice newsletters are being read and our Facebook page is a lively forum for debate. I believe that people want to know whats going on and want to have a say in a direct informal way. I have provided public feedback on the PACT and community clean up efforts. I would continue to do that as well as regular surgeries to meet residents with my e mail and phone number being available for all. I also use my twitter account to encourage and support all local schools, churches, scouts, parks, community groups and businesses.

What issues that affect the whole city would you like to get involved in?

Cardiff Plaid have an extensive maniffesto with 7 key pledges whuch are all relevant . Management restructure with reasonable wages for all staff. Defend greenfield sites from inappropriate Local Development Plan. Improve transport and sustainable transport. Local housing for local needs. Street cleaners. Investigate questionable financial dealings. Get best Brexit outcome. Bid for status as Capital of Culture. Details available through Llandaff North Voice Facebook or Cardiff Plaid on line.

Final Comments

What would you change about Cardiff and why?

Our main problem at the moment is the destruction of the greenbelt because of the inappropriate Local Development Plan. This allows speculative housing development on a scale that our roads and transport and hospitals cannot cope with. The loss of our perfectly situated bus station, which may or may not be replaced by a much smaller service, is a disaster and the financial risks involved immense. The closure of our local recycling facilities is another disaster. We need to deal with our homeless problem because its a matter of life or death. We need to restore our image as a cosmopolitan welcoming Capital City of Wales. We need to ensure Welsh medium education is available for all but not forget provison in English medium schools. We need to improve education because that’s our future.We need good people to stand up for Cardiff. We need real champions for Cardiff not just football champions.

Any final comments?

Ymddiheuriadau i siaradwyr Cymraeg- apologies to Welsh speakers – I’m more than happy to discuss this in Welsh. I am delighted to see ten candidates providing a real choice in our ward and look forward to reading their answers to these questions. None of us have all the answers and the next councillors should take the best ideas from all sides. Thank you for providing such an excellent forum for information. Apologies for any spelling mistakes. Diolch yn fawr iawn.