Business leaders in Cardiff have expressed concern that road closures during the Olympic football matches at the Millennium Stadium will deter shoppers and harm trade. The stadium is hosting 11 games, with roads shut for up to eight hours on days with two matches.
David Hughes-Lewis of the Cardiff Retail Partnership said hotels would benefit greatly, but retailers might not see a spin-off. He feared shoppers would stay away due to road closures and lack of parking. The partnership acknowledged the Olympics was good for some businesses but worried about overall impact.
Cardiff council countered that tens of thousands of visitors would come to the city on match days, boosting the local economy. A spokesperson said positive feedback had already been received from retailers, and hotel occupancy was up compared to the same time last year, partly due to Olympic teams training in the city.
Road closures begin two-and-a-half hours before kick-off and last until at least one hour after the final whistle. Entire closures include Duke Street, Castle Street, High Street, St Mary Street, Caroline Street, Wood Street, Central Square, Westgate Street, Quay Street, Guildhall Place, Golate, Park Street, Havelock Street and Scott Road. Park and ride is available from junction 33 of the M4, and Arriva Trains Wales is providing extra services.
