Area Overview for CF5 3DW

Area Information

CF5 3DW, a small residential cluster in the west of Cardiff, Wales, is a compact yet historically rich community. Covering just 1.1 hectares and home to 1,586 residents, it is densely populated at 147,664 people per square kilometre, reflecting its suburban character. The area, known as Fairwater, has roots in the 8th century, when it was granted to Llandaff Cathedral. Its name, derived from the Welsh *Y Tyllgoed* (meaning “the hole in the woods”), hints at its origins near a stream that still flows through the district. Today, Fairwater is a mix of residential housing and green spaces, with Fairwater Green as a hub for independent shops and The Dell, a public park featuring one of Britain’s first manmade ski slopes. The area has evolved from its 19th-century roots as a game preserve into a community with a strong local identity, represented by Plaid Cymru councillors since 2008. Living here means balancing proximity to Cardiff’s urban amenities with a quieter, suburban rhythm of life.

Area Type
Postcode
Area Size
1.1 hectares
Population
1586
Population Density
3851 people/km²

CF5 3DW is predominantly an owner-occupied area, with 89% of homes owned by residents rather than rented. The housing stock consists largely of houses, reflecting a suburban pattern of development rather than high-density living. Given the area’s small size—just 1.1 hectares—and its high population density, the housing stock is limited, with little scope for new builds. Buyers should consider the immediate surroundings, as the area’s compact nature may mean competition for properties. The high home ownership rate suggests a stable market with long-term residents, which can be advantageous for those seeking a settled community. However, the lack of flats or rental properties means the area may not suit those requiring flexible housing options. For buyers, this implies a focus on existing homes, with potential for value retention due to the area’s historical significance and proximity to Cardiff’s amenities.

House Prices in CF5 3DW

No properties found in this postcode.

Energy Efficiency in CF5 3DW

Residents of CF5 3DW have access to a range of amenities within practical reach. The area’s retail options include Spar, Co-op Fairwater, and Farmfoods Ely, providing everyday shopping needs. Fairwater Green serves as a local hub for independent shops, adding to the area’s distinct character. Recreational spaces like The Dell, a public park with a historic ski slope, and Ty Bronna, a Grade II listed building, offer both leisure and cultural value. The Fairwater Community Campus brings together schools, sports facilities, and community spaces, enhancing local life. The proximity to rail, ferry, and bus services ensures easy access to Cardiff’s broader amenities, while the compact nature of the area fosters a sense of community. This blend of convenience, green spaces, and local services supports a balanced lifestyle, ideal for those seeking both suburban tranquillity and urban connectivity.

Amenities

Schools

The nearest school to CF5 3DW is Fairwater Primary School, listed as an “other” type in the data. While no Ofsted rating is provided, the presence of a primary school indicates accessibility for local families. The area also benefits from the Fairwater Community Campus, a multi-million pound development housing Cantonian High School, Riverbank School, and Woodlands School. This campus offers modern facilities, including sports spaces and support for learners with additional needs. However, no secondary schools are explicitly listed in the data, meaning families may need to consider nearby areas for secondary education. The mix of schools suggests a focus on both primary and specialist education, though the absence of detailed ratings or specific secondary options may be a consideration for prospective buyers prioritising school quality.

RankSchoolTypeEntry genderAges
1Fairwater Primary SchoolotherN/AN/A

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Demographics

The population of CF5 3DW is predominantly adults aged 30–64, with a median age of 47, reflecting a mature, stable community. Home ownership is high at 89%, suggesting long-term residency and investment in property. The area is composed mostly of houses rather than flats, aligning with its suburban layout. The predominant ethnic group is White, which is typical for this part of Wales. The high home ownership rate and age profile indicate a community focused on family living and retirement, with limited generational turnover. The population density, while high for its small size, does not translate to overcrowding, as the area’s compact nature allows for well-defined residential clusters. This demographic profile suggests a low demand for rental properties, with most households prioritising long-term stability. The absence of detailed deprivation data means the quality of life is inferred from the area’s amenities and infrastructure, which appear to meet the needs of its residents.

Household Size

Family (3-5 people)
most common

Accommodation Type

Houses
most common

Tenure

89
majority

Ethnic Group

White
most common

Religion

N/A
most common

Household Composition

N/A
most common

Age

47
median
Adults (30-64 years)
most common

Household Deprivation

N/A
with no deprivation

NS-SEC

37
in Lower managerial occupations

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Planning

Planning Constraints

  • Flood Risk
    Premium
  • Ramsar Wetland Sites
    Premium
  • Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty
    Premium
  • Protected Nature Reserve
    Premium
  • Protected Woodland
    Premium
  • Crime Risk
    Premium

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Nearby Areas

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the community feel like in CF5 3DW?
CF5 3DW has a compact, suburban character with a population of 1,586. The high home ownership rate (89%) and presence of Fairwater Green suggest a tight-knit community. Local amenities like The Dell and the Fairwater Community Campus foster social interaction, though the area’s density may feel more urban than rural.
Who typically lives in CF5 3DW?
The area is predominantly inhabited by adults aged 30–64, with a median age of 47. The majority of residents are White, and 89% own their homes, indicating a stable, long-term population with a focus on family living.
Are there good schools near CF5 3DW?
Fairwater Primary School is the only explicitly listed school in the data. The Fairwater Community Campus hosts multiple schools, including Cantonian High School, but no secondary schools are named, so families may need to consider nearby areas for secondary education.
How connected is CF5 3DW to transport and the internet?
The area has excellent broadband (score 100) and good mobile coverage (score 85). It is served by multiple rail stations, ferry stops, and a bus route to Cardiff Bus Interchange, ensuring ease of travel for commuting and leisure.
What safety considerations should buyers be aware of?
CF5 3DW has a low flood risk and no protected natural sites, reducing environmental hazards. However, crime data is not available for Wales, so buyers should seek additional local insights for a complete safety assessment.

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