The Musicians’ Union (MU) is calling on members to protect vital Cardiff music venue Gwdihŵ Café Bar by lodging objections on the Council’s planning application page, and signing an urgent petition.
For over a decade, Gwdihŵ has been a colourful cornerstone in Cardiff’s music scene, but it is now under threat, along with a number of other local businesses, due to their landlord’s decision not to renew their business lease.
Over two hundred objections have already been lodged on Cardiff Council’s planning application page, and supporters are urged to add their own voices.
And a petition begun by campaigners from Save Gwdihŵ is already close to reaching 10,000 signitures – but more support is needed to ensure that the landlord of Guildford Crescent recognises and understands the cultural and artistic significance of this space.
A shining example of everything a grassroots music venue should be
Paul Gray, Musicians’ Union Regional Organiser for Wales and South-West England stated the MU’s objections in a letter to Cardiff Council:
“The MU strongly objects to this demolition application. Gwdihw is a shining example of everything a grassroots music venue should be, is one of the MU's recognised Fair Play Venues and is a crucial stepping stone for musicians from Wales and far beyond.”
Flying in the face of Cardiff’s “Music City” strategy
Paul Gray added:
“As a result of the Save Womanby Street campaign and the subsequent working with Sound Diplomacy on a strategy to establish Cardiff as a "Music City", Cardiff Council have to date shown that they understand the importance and myriad benefits of music and culture to our city.
“If this application is approved by the Council, not only will the proposed demolition of these beautiful buildings sound the death knell to one of the city's best-loved and iconic music venues, but two other small, long established and independent businesses will also be lost that add so much individuality and colour to our city.
“Such approval will fly in the face of the Council's alleged interest in protecting our city's crucial cultural assets. We therefore call on Cardiff Council to reject this application.”
Paul Gray also commented:
“Please consider signing this petition or we may be in danger of losing yet another irreplaceable venue that is so crucial to artists at the formative stages of their careers”.
Get involved
Send an objection to the planning application.
Sign the petition to save Gwdihŵ and Guildford Crescent.
Find out more about campaigns that the MU is involved in, and how you play your part in supporting music.