A new Independent Chair has been appointed to drive forward the community-led Pride in Place programme in Ely and Caerau, which will oversee residents shaping the priorities for this UK Government funding.
Kevin Gardiner has been selected as Chair and Joseph Goode as Vice Chair of the soon to be formed Neighbourhood Board that will oversee the delivery of the Pride in Place Programme in Ely and Caerau.
Together they will lead the Board, which will bring together the local MP Alex Barros-Curtis, residents, community organisations, businesses and partners to develop and deliver a shared vision for the area.
The appointments mark an important milestone in the delivery of the UK Government’s Pride in Place programme, which will bring up to £20 million of investment over 10 years to support community-led regeneration and help local people shape the future of Ely and Caerau. It will bring significant investment into the area, aiming to improve everyday life for residents by investing in local priorities such as community facilities, public spaces, opportunities for young people and initiatives that strengthen pride and connection.
As Chair, Kevin Gardiner will provide leadership of the Board, ensuring that decision-making is transparent, inclusive and driven by the priorities of local people. In his role as Vice Chair, Joseph Goode will support the Chair in guiding the Board’s work and championing community voices throughout the programme.
Kevin who was born and grew up in Ely, has significant experience of chairing boards, including the Cardiff Capital Region’s Regional Growth Board, which helps shape investment and growth priorities for the region. He has chaired several finance committees and was a member of the Welsh Government’s advisory panel for Finance and Professional Services.
Joe Goode brings extensive grassroots leadership experience and a long-standing commitment to the Ely and Caerau community. He currently serves as Chair of the Caerau & Ely Community Trust, Secretary of Caerau Ely Community Football Club, Vice Secretary of the Cardiff Combination Football League and a Governor at Nant Caerau Primary School, and was previously a Secretary of the Cardiff Combination Football League. A lifelong local resident, Joe is widely recognised for his hands-on involvement in supporting residents, families and voluntary organisations across Ely and Caerau.
Kevin Gardiner, Chair, said: “I’m delighted to have been appointed to this role, which is a great opportunity to deliver significant improvements and facilities for residents in Ely and Caerau, my homeplace.
“I look forward to working with residents and key stakeholders in the community to build a shared vision for the future, set out key priorities, and make a difference.”
Joe Goode, Vice Chair, said: “It’s a privilege to support this programme as Vice Chair. I’m passionate about working with local people to make sure the investment reflects what matters most to the community.
“Together, we have an opportunity to build stronger connections and create a future that residents can be proud of.”
Alex Barros-Curtis, Member of Parliament for Cardiff West, said: “I’m delighted with the appointments we’re announcing today. The Pride in Place funding I campaigned for is a real opportunity to demonstrate that this UK Government is serious about backing communities like Ely and Caerau.
“With these appointments made, and the establishment of the Neighbourhood Board this summer, we will be focused on delivering the kind of changes local people want, whether it’s community facilities, better opportunities for young people, or neighbourhoods that feel safer.
“What matters most is that Ely and Caerau residents will shape the priorities and decide how this money is spent.”
Councillor Chris Weaver, Leader of Cardiff Council, said: “Pride in Place represents a once-in-a-generation opportunity from UK Government to invest directly in Ely and Caerau, putting residents firmly at the centre of decisions about their community’s future.
“I’m delighted to welcome Kevin Gardiner as Chair and Joseph Goode as Vice Chair. Their leadership, experience and commitment will be vital in ensuring this programme delivers meaningful and lasting change for local people.”
Kevin and Joe will now work with Alex Barros-Curtis MP to form the Neighbourhood Board, bringing together residents, community organisations, businesses and local partners to develop a shared vision for the future of Ely and Caerau.
The Board, once appointed, will be responsible for overseeing the development of a 10-year investment plan, ensuring funding is directed towards projects that matter most to local residents, and helping to build a stronger, more resilient community.
