Events – Seren-y-Bae 27th July 2005

A trip around Cardiff Bay – the notorious Tiger Bay of years past – was the social highlight of July. The boat Seren-y-Bae was hired for a trip around the Bay and a buffet supper.

Visitors to Cardiff Bay would find it difficult to imagine that this ever-developing area was once a thriving dockland. Following the Industrial Revolution, Butetown and the surrounding area became a melting pot for many different cultures and races.

In April 1987, the Cardiff Bay Development Corporation was set up to begin the process of regenerating the docks and mudflats, following the demise of the coal industry in the early 1980s. One of its aims was the construction of a barrage, which was in operation by 1999. The barrage has created a 500-acre freshwater lake with 8 miles of waterfront, fed by the Taff and Ely rivers. The Cardiff Harbour Authority is responsible for monitoring and maintaining the quality of the water in Cardiff Bay – essential for the 8 hectares of a newly created Wetlands Reserve, officially opened in July 2002.

Although the regeneration process is ongoing, some historic buildings remain, such as the Norwegian Church and the Pierhead building. New developments include Mermaid Quay, with its vibrant and modern bars, restaurants and cafes; St David's Hotel, the first 5 star hotel in Wales and the newly opened and amazing Wales Millennium Centre. Projects already under construction are a £700 million International Sports Village and a Debating Chamber for the Welsh Assembly Government.

We were joined by members if SI Abergavenny and SI Barry & District. A thoroughly enjoyable evening was had by all – with even long-term Cardiff residents gaining a new perspective of Cardiff Bay. Well worth a return visit...