skip to main content

Cardiff AMs call for Agent of Change to save city centre live music

Two Cardiff AMs are calling on the Welsh Government to change planning laws in Wales to protect the future of live music venues in the centre of Cardiff.

Published: 14 April 2017 | 12:00 AM Updated: 28 April 2021 | 4:28 PM

Two Cardiff AMs are calling on the Welsh Government to change planning laws in Wales to protect the future of live music venues in the centre of Cardiff.

The Save Womanby Street campaign, which the Musicians’ Union (MU) is supporting, is concerned that the future of local venues could be in doubt as a result of planning permission given for hotel and residential properties on the street.

Responding to fears from constituents over the future of Womanby Street in the city centre, Jenny Rathbone (AM for Cardiff Central) and Julie Morgan (AM for Cardiff North) are calling for the Welsh Government to amend planning laws in Wales to include the Agent of Change principle.

Jenny Rathbone AM said: “Womanby Street is part of what makes Cardiff such a great cultural city, and it must be protected.

“Planning is a devolved issue, so this is within the Welsh Government’s gift.

“Julie Morgan and I will be writing to the relevant Welsh Minister to call for the introduction of the Agent of Change principle to Welsh planning laws.”

Julie Morgan AM said: “I have been asked by constituents to raise this issue in the Assembly and I feel it is important that Cardiff residents – and visitors to our capital city – have the opportunity to hear live music in all types of venues including small, intimate places such as Clwb Ifor Bach which has played host to some big name bands on their rise to fame.

“We would like to see Womanby Street, which is home to some of the best live music in Cardiff, protected in the Council’s Local Development Plan as an area vital to the cultural night-time economy of our city.”

Get MU membership today

From gig players to part-time teachers and professional instrumentalists, MU members can access specialist insurance for musicians. This includes Public Liability, Instrument and Equipment Insurance, Accident Insurance, Tax Investigation Insurance, and Professional Indemnity Insurance for music teachers.

Explore our member services

  • Get public liability insurance for musicians
  • Access expert legal support
  • Be represented in your profession
  • Access expert career advice, resources, and training events
  • Connect, network, and get to know the community of musicians

Learn about all membership benefits

Get MU membership today

Continue reading

Young Black musician in a wheelchair, working on his music with a keyboard and laptop in a studio.

MU to Host Panel and Workshop at Liverpool Sound City Conference

The annual Sound City Music Industry Conference is the UK’s leading independent conference for new music. Taking place in Liverpool on 2 May, the MU will host a panel on changing attitudes and perceptions to access requirements for touring artists. Ticket discount is also available to members.

Published: 24 April 2025

Read more about MU to Host Panel and Workshop at Liverpool Sound City Conference
Leon Slater, sat smiling in an armchair.

Tribute to Leon Slater

Leon Slater was a highly accomplished saxophonist who was devoted to his music. He was a member of the MU for over fifty years and had a life-long passion for jazz. This tribute has been provided by Leon’s wife and family.

Published: 24 April 2025

Read more about Tribute to Leon Slater