Highlights:
- 402 homes complete at Phase1 Tai Afon as 718-unit BtR scheme progresses at Central Quay, Cardiff
- Forward funded by L&G, major global investor and one of the UK's leading financial services groups
- Part of the wider £1billion Central Quay masterplan in the Welsh capital
Watkin Jones, the UK’s leading developer and manager of residential for rent, is pleased to announce that the Group has practically completed Phase 1 of the 718-unit Build to Rent (‘BtR’) scheme at Tai Afon in Central Quay, Cardiff, a scheme which has been forward funded by L&G.
The development comprises 718 units, (402 in Phase 1 & 316 in Phase 2) including a range of studio, one, two and three-bedroom homes. Upon completion of the overall development later in the year, amenities will include a games room, work from home space, a, private dining room, podcast studios, cinema, yoga and spin studios and gym, plus roof terraces. The scheme also includes a public square overlooking the River Taff and a series of 650m2 filtered water gardens complemented by over 19,500 sq. ft. of ground floor space, creating a new neighbourhood destination in the heart of the city.
The £200 million investment in the Central Quay development forms a key element of the broader £1 billion regeneration initiative underway in Cardiff and will contribute to meeting the city’s increasing demand for rental accommodation. Located just a short walk from the Principality Stadium, Cardiff Central station, and the city centre, Tai Afon sits in a highly prominent and well connected part of the capital. Cardiff also benefits from strong transport links to the southwest of England, with Bristol and Bath close by and convenient rail connections to London.
The project supports the ESG priorities shared by both Watkin Jones and L&G and will feature roof‑mounted solar panels, as well as energy‑efficient air‑source heat pumps to provide electricity and hot water. These measures highlight our collective commitment to delivering sustainable, future‑focused homes.
Gwyn Pritchard, Managing Director, Watkin Jones, said:
“We are delighted to announce the practical completion of Plot 1 (402 apartments) at Tai Afon, Central Quay in Cardiff, marking a major delivery milestone for this transformative regeneration scheme. With delivery in line with our planned schedule of the summer of 2026, this achievement demonstrates the strength of our project team, the depth of our expertise, and our commitment to delivering high‑quality homes at scale and at pace.
“Central Quay is a significant development project in Cardiff, and with its prime location, sustainable design credentials and excellent connectivity, offers compelling long‑term value for L&G and its residents.
“As we progress toward completion of Plot 2, we remain focused on delivering a vibrant, high‑quality destination that supports the city’s growth and provides attractive, sustainable homes for future residents.”
Adam Burney, Head of Multi Family BTR and PBSA, Asset Management, L&G, commented: “The completion of Plot 1 at Tai Afon marks an important step in our long-term regeneration activity in Cardiff. With the city’s employment base expanding, high-quality rental homes are vital for ensuring young professionals can live, work and build their futures here. With national housing supply still falling short of demand, sustained investment in new homes is essential and this scheme will contribute to a vibrant, revitalised community to support Cardiff’s continued economic growth and job creation.”