Riverside in Cardiff is facing some serious challenges, according to residents. Drug use, fly-tipping, and crime seem to be spiralling out of control, with locals demanding action from the council. Families are navigating streets littered with drug users and abandoned items, transforming their once beloved community into what some describe as a “slum.”
At a recent community meeting at the Cardiff Bangladesh Centre, frustrations boiled over as residents shared personal stories of drug dealing, anti-social behaviour, and waste problems plaguing the area. A resident shared a disheartening tale of dodging passed-out drug users on school runs, while others recounted finding household items like fridges dumped on the pavements.
Cllr Kanaya Singh, a local councillor, highlighted the increasing drug issues, describing them as being “off the charts” in Riverside. He expressed the community’s growing concern about why these problems persist and why they appear to be concentrated in Riverside but not in neighbouring areas like Pontcanna.
Despite an influx of funding to increase police presence, PC Jack Long emphasised the tough battle officers face, noting that tackling drug problems is a relentless task with new offenders stepping in almost immediately after one is dealt with.
The meeting also addressed the impact of Cardiff’s nightlife on Riverside, with reports of anti-social acts like public urination becoming a regular issue. PC Long and others stressed the need for a collective effort, proposing solutions such as increased CCTV and community skips, although these ideas were met with concerns about feasibility.
The council is reportedly working on waste management strategies, but residents feel progress is slow. Matt Strong, a newer resident, remains optimistic, suggesting that collaboration between locals, councillors, and the police could bring about improvements.
As the debate around Riverside’s future continues, the community remains hopeful and vigilant, advocating for real change to reclaim their vibrant neighbourhood. But for now, they continue to wait for solutions that match the urgency of their concerns.