St David’s Cardiff has revealed plans to transform Queens Arcade into a new hospitality led destination, with three new restaurants set to form the first phase of a major redevelopment.
Landsec, the owner and operator of St David’s, has submitted proposals to Cardiff City Council that would breathe new life into the shopping centre, creating a refreshed space designed to strengthen St David’s position as one of the UK’s leading retail, dining and leisure destinations.
The first phase of the plans focuses on the current Queens Arcade site, where three new restaurants would front a restored façade on Working Street while retaining the arcade’s grand entrance. The redevelopment aims to introduce new brands and experiences that complement the existing retail, dining and leisure offer at St David’s and across Cardiff city centre.
Further details, including the restaurant brands and later phases of the redevelopment, will be announced at a later date.
Helen Morgan, Centre Director at St David’s Cardiff, said: “Our exciting new plans for Queens Arcade build on our long-standing investment in Cardiff. Our plans will elevate the site in line with other areas of the city, enhancing the experience for locals and tourists visiting us at St David’s and the wider city.
“We know our guests at St David’s expect best-in-class experiences, and these plans to enhance its appeal as a leading retail and leisure destination in the city create even more reasons to visit. The redevelopment of Queens Arcade also creates new job opportunities in our community, and is designed to complement everything that our brilliant city has to offer.”
The proposals come during a period of strong growth for St David’s. Occupancy has reached 97%, driven by the arrival of several Wales first retailers including Sephora, Pureseoul and Pop Mart, alongside a new 32,000 sq ft flagship JD Sports store.
The centre is also preparing to welcome the UK’s largest Hollywood Bowl, which will feature the company’s first ever e-karting attraction, further expanding St David’s leisure offering.
Queens Arcade first opened in April 1994 and was once one of Cardiff’s busiest shopping centres. In recent years, much of the lower level has been closed for redevelopment, with remaining retailers relocated to the upper levels. Today, it is home to a smaller number of businesses including The Entertainer, Millie’s Cookies, Ryman and Tim Hortons.
Phase one of the redevelopment is currently awaiting approval from Cardiff City Council, with leasing announcements and details of phase two expected to follow in due course.
