Cardiff sees boost in pubs and bars

The success of the new Millennium Stadium in Cardiff has seen a huge explosion of new pubs and bars in the Welsh capital, according to licensed property specialist Lisa Roberts from Chesterton.

She says the growth that is currently taking place is "the most radical overhaul and development of its leisure industry in its entire history".

Ms Roberts explained: "National operators are vying for space to fulfil the continued demand for alternative, trendy customer-friendly bars. The development of the Imperial Gate scheme was a catalyst for St Mary Street's regeneration and now boasts Luminar's Liquid nightclub and Life bar and Regent Inns' Walkabout bar."

Other brands nearby include an Old Monk and a very successful JD Wetherspoon outlet called the Prince of Wales.

"One must assume we are reaching saturation point and yet the Springbok bar has smashed all targets in its first six months of trading," Ms Roberts said. "UGC is opening its first cinema complex in Wales above Old Monk's Springbok this month and the Millennium Plaza opens shortly with a 14-screen multiplex cinema. Other occupiers in this ambitious project include Regent's Jongleurs and Bar-Risa."

The existing Ha! Ha! Bar and Canteen, SFI's Bar Med and Henry's in the Greyfriars Road area of the city are also facing increased competition with SFI and Wetherspoon recently snapping up units nearby.

"One could be forgiven for thinking that Cardiff cannot sustain this unprecedented rebirth," Ms Roberts said.

"For the sceptics, however, I would suggest an evening stroll to soak up the vibrant, colourful, emotive and cosmopolitan feel of this wonderful city. It won't disappoint."