Armed police to train in former BBC building
POLICE firearms units are to use the old BBC Wales headquarters in Llandaff as a training facility after the site closes.
BBC Wales is in the process of moving from its old site on Llantrisant Road, Llandaff, to a new £120m city centre headquarters at Central Square.
Around a thousand production and support staff began relocating in October of last year - meaning some buildings at the Llandaff site are already empty.
The land will eventually be redeveloped into a housing estate for nearly 400 properties. But until then, part will be used by officers from South Wales Police, Gwent Police and Dyfed-Powys Police for weapons training.
A spokesman for South Wales Police said: “Following its closure by the BBC, the site will be used for a period to provide a location for training new and accredited firearm officers in a variety of firearms tactics.
“The JFU is always looking for real-life training venues and the disused BBC site fits this criterion perfectly.”
The JFU is a collaboration between South Wales, Gwent and Dyfed Powys Police forces. Its training has been based at Waterton, Bridgend, since the unit was established in 2013.
It’s thought police will use the location for eight weeks.
The area is largely residential and the BBC site is opposite Bishop of Llandaff Church in Wales High School. However, the school said it is unlikely to affect their day-to-day workings.
In a letter sent to parents on February 13, a member of staff explained that a heightened police presence should be expected - but said it shouldn’t cause any unnecessary concern.
However, not everybody pleased with the move.
Russell, 89, a resident of Llantrisant Road, who didn’t want to give his surname, said: “I received no notification of the change, but I don’t like the idea of firearms training going on in this residential area.”
But other neighbours unconcerned.
Barbara Williams, 69, said: “I don’t think they would have put it there if it was going to cause any problems.” was seemed