The history of the suburb of Trowbridge

Trowbridge was until 1938, part of the parish of Rumney, in the former county of Monmouthshire. It is one of Cardiff's newest suburbs, and includes part of St. Mellons in its boundaries. Trowbridge was a large tract of low-lying land, across which ran the main railway line to Bristol. Apart from a few farms scattered across the district, Trowbridge does not seem to have any historical significance with regards to the development of the City.

The area, along with most of Cardiff, was decimated by a flood in the early 17th century. Trowbridge, being at near sea level, was one of the worst areas hit. Those who returned to farm the land found that the sea water had contaminated the earth. It took over 5 years for the rains to dilute and wash away all the salt left behind. At Peterstone Wentloog to the east of St. Mellons, a memorial plaque on the outside of the St. Peter's Church commemorates The Great Flood, January 20th, 1606.

By the mid 1960's the post-war housing estate in Rumney was extended to the east, taking in the land owned by the farms of Trowbridge Fawr and Trowbridge Bach (Greater and Little Trowbridge respectively). Other areas in the district were used for light industry and commerce. The Spring Meadow Business Park, the Wentloog Industrial Park and the Freight Liner Depot are all based on former farmland in Trowbridge. The small shopping centre and surrounding Trowbridge Flats, were typical of the architecture of the 1960's. Residents felt cut off in the high rise buildings, and the atmosphere provided a catalyst for the escalation of anti-social behaviour in the 1990's. Efforts have been made to enhance the environment, by improving street lighting, installing CCTV cameras and demolishing some of the worst buildings, including the afore-mentioned shopping centre.

In 1998, the area was listed as one of the most economically deprived wards in South Wales. However, the positive aspects of the area are frequently forgotten. To the north is Rumney Hill, with houses commanding a spectacular view of the whole suburb right down to the Bristol Channel. Coleg Glan Hafren Tertiary College is based in Trowbridge Road, and there are many large recreation areas. Traffic density is very low and the area is well served by public transport.

In recent years, there were indications that Trowbridge could be the site of Cardiff's newest railway station, which would serve the East of the City. in the early 21st century, a poll of residents showed that a 'Park and Ride' system was considered to be a good idea, especially considering the close proximity of the main Great Western line running almost parallel to the suburb. Unfortunately, it seems that the idea is on hiatus for the foreseeable future.

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