A vibrant new Gaming Den has opened at St Mellons Youth Club, bringing a safe, modern space with digital technologies to young people in East Cardiff.
The project has been delivered by Kier in partnership with Cardiff Youth Service and Wates Group as part of the Community Wellbeing benefits associated with the construction of the new Court School, to be known as Ysgol Cynefin. It highlights the building contractors ongoing commitment to delivering meaningful social value alongside its core construction work.
Volunteers transformed the space into a dynamic and inclusive environment, complete with a state-of-the-art media wall and gaming area. The project aimed not only to improve the physical environment, but also to foster learning, collaboration, and community engagement.
Young people were actively involved throughout the process, from participating in STEM-based activities including constructing a giant tetrahedron and designing marble runs using recyclable materials, offering hands-on learning in geometry, structural planning, and teamwork.
The new Gaming Den introduces modern digital facilities, enabling access to creative content, gaming, and entertainment in a safe and welcoming environment. It’s already encouraging young people to step out of their bedrooms and into a space where they can connect with peers and engage with support services.
Cabinet Member for Tackling Poverty and Supporting Young People, Cllr Peter Bradbury, said: “Projects like this are vital in ensuring that young people from all backgrounds have access to safe, inspiring spaces where they can explore new interests, build friendships, and develop valuable life skills.
“By embedding social value into construction projects like Ysgol Cynefin, we’re able to deliver lasting benefits that strengthen communities and create real opportunities for our young people.”
Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Education, Cllr Sarah Merry said: “This initiative is a fantastic example of how education and community investment can work hand in hand. We want to make sure that local communities benefit through social values associated with the construction of our newest school builds and the delivery of projects such as the gaming den, reflects our commitment to ensure that all learners have access to opportunities that enrich their education and wellbeing.”
Ian Rees, regional director at Kier Construction Western & Wales, said: “The new gaming den is a fantastic initiative for young people in East Cardiff and we are proud to have delivered it alongside our work on the Ysgol Cynefin project.
At Kier, we are committed to leaving a positive, lasting legacy in the local communities where we work. The Gaming Den – through the space, facilities, and technology – is a brilliant example of that commitment and we can’t wait to see it in action.”
Ysgol Cynefin is the new development of The Court School, across two new sites, one in Fairwater and one in Llanrumney. The £23 million project, delivered under Cardiff Council and the Welsh Government’s Sustainable Communities for Learning Programme, will increase the capacity of the school, which will reflect a deep connection between people and the natural world, promoting identity and wellbeing.
