Similar encampments have been set up in the same area over the years
An encampment at near the Taffs Mead Embankment railway underpass in Cardiff has returned (Image: Ava Hicks)
Another encampment has been set up in Cardiff city centre less than a year after a similar one linked with litter and anti-social behaviour in the same location was forced to leave. Tents being set up between Taffs Mead Embankment and Wood Street has been a regular occurrence over the years despite Cardiff Council and South Wales Police ordering their removal.
There have also been concerns about public safety in relation to the encampments after a fire broke out in October 2024.
Now, a similar encampment has been erected in the same area. Never miss a Cardiff story by signing up to our daily newsletter here
By September 2025, the encampment got so out of hand that 28 people were living in tents under the bridge at the embankment. Locals reported feeling intimidated and scared to use the walkway.
After complaints about drug use, litter, disorder, assaults, alcohol use, and human waste, South Wales Police and Cardiff Council attempted to resolve the issue.
For a while, the area was tent-free and clean. But now, a similar encampment has returned. While it is small for now, residents have taken to Facebook to share their concerns about people there throwing their rubbish over the fence and onto the banks of the River Taff.
A Cardiff Council spokesperson said: “The Council’s Outreach Team has had ongoing contact with the individual and continues to take all appropriate and reasonable steps to encourage engagement with support services, including accommodation options. Council officers are working in partnership with South Wales Police to address the issue.”
A statement from South Wales Police said: “We are aware of local concerns and we are working with the local authority and voluntary sector to resolve the matter.
“Officers continue to carry out daily visits to the site to help vulnerable people and to encourage them to engage with the many support agencies and outreach services available in the city.
“Any form of crime or anti-social behaviour won’t be tolerated and we will always take appropriate action wherever there is evidence of offending.”
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