Cardiff’s City Centre Ambassador scheme, which includes the provision of a taxi marshalling service on Greyfriars Road and St Mary’s Street, will continue to operate.
Cardiff’s City Centre Manager, Paul Williams, confirmed today that:“Not only is the ambassador scheme continuing but we are also expanding the existing level of service provided by employing an additional officer.
“This means that as of 31 March, ten ambassadors will be operating in Cardiff’s city centre on Friday and Saturday nights offering additional support to the night time economy.”
The scheme, which was first introduced in 2008, has significantly helped to improve community safety in some of the most densely populated areas of the city centre at night.
The ambassadors’ primary duties include providing a taxi marshalling service to create an ordered taxi queuing system, thus reducing the risk of arguments over taxis which have the potential to escalate into violence. Additionally, they provide advice, assistance and reassurance to members of the public; support service providers such as taxi drivers, door supervisors and CCTV operators – who in turn can direct emergency response units if needed.
On occasions, they may also assist in apprehending offenders and the provision of witness evidence for offences committed.
Wearing distinctive, highly visible uniforms, the ambassadors are instantly recognisable. Linked by radio to both the Police and shop security provides them with a greater opportunity to contribute to the safety of those visiting the city centre and generate better feelings of personal wellbeing.
Since being appointed, their early intervention has lead to a reduction in anti-social behaviour and violent crimes.
Cardiff Council’s Deputy Leader, Councillor Judith Woodman, who also co-chairs the Safer Capital partnership, said: “The scheme has already had a positive impact on improving community safety in the city centre so I’m delighted it’s being continued.”
