A new micro-pub selling craft beer is coming to Rhiwbina after a premises licence was granted for the venue.
The Rhiwbina Tap and Cellar is now set to open where the former popular cafe the Olive Branch used to be, on Heol-Y-Deri.
The venue will be similar to the Radyr Tap, on Station Road, selling craft beer and quality wines to drink on the premises or to take away. The Radyr Tap opened in 2018 and has quickly become a popular social hub for the north Cardiff suburb.
Some residents living nearby raised concerns to Cardiff council’s licensing committee on Friday, March 9, about the potential for noisy customers; while others spoke in favour of the new venue bringing investment to Rhiwbina village.
During the licensing hearing, Kathryn Pinches, a concerned resident, said: “Rhiwbina is quite a small and distinct village, with a particular character. This proposal will impact that neighbourhood character in the village.
“For those residents who live close by, this is going to increase the already existing noise levels. We also question the suitability of the location for this type of outlet — Rhiwbina is already served by four pubs, and takeaway sales can be purchased from the Co-op.”
Speaking in favour of the new venue coming to Rhiwbina, Andrea Waddington, another resident, said: “This establishment will add to the flavour of living in Rhiwbina. I think it’s very different to the other establishments selling alcohol.
“It should be looked upon as a positive addition to Rhiwbina.”
Phil Newbould is the owner and managing director of Suburban Taps, the small company behind both the Radyr Tap and the Rhiwbina Tap and Cellar. He also runs the Vale of Glamorgan Brewery, based in Barry.
He told the licensing committee he wanted to bring a different offering to Rhiwbina than is already there currently, and said the successful launch of the Radyr Tap “proved” the business would operate the new premises responsibly.
He said: “We’re looking to expand our very small business to Rhiwbina. Radyr has been really successful for us so far.
“We’re looking to expand our very small business to Rhiwbina. Radyr has been really successful for us so far. Our landlord came to us with the opportunity to open in another of his properties — the cafe in Rhiwbina.
“We had a look at it and thought it could be the right place. We think it’s an ideal location. We think we can bring something like we have in Radyr to Rhiwbina.
“We’re bringing a more local, independent offering of beers and wines which is quite different to what you have elsewhere. We want to bring something to the community. We’re not about chasing profits.
“We have never had issues with anti-social behaviour in Radyr. We’ve proven we’re responsible operators.”
The Rhiwbina Tap will open until 10pm on Wednesdays, Thursdays and Sundays, and until 11pm on Fridays and Saturdays. The venue is likely to open as soon as this summer.
The former Olive Branch cafe shut down last August, after 35 years, due to the coronavirus pandemic.
After the licensing hearing, the Radyr Tap tweeted: “Following fantastic support for our application, we’re pleased to say our licence for the Rhiwbina Tap has been granted! Thanks to Cardiff council’s licensing committee and to all those who took time to give their input both in support and raising potential issues.”
