Plans for a multi-million-pound renovation of Cardiff’s historic Central Market that would protect, preserve and future-proof the Grade II* Listed building, restoring original design features, and introducing a new ground floor seated area for food have been revealed.
Opened in 1891, the market is steeped in history and following the renovation, Cardiff Council, who own the market, are also intending to better present and share its history with the 2.2 million visitors it attracts every year, using visual story points and projections.
The plans, which are subject to funding being successfully secured and planning permission being granted, include:
- the restoration of the Trinity Street and St Mary Street entrances.
- restoration of the roof, original windows and external elevations.
- replacement of glazing and tiles.
- restoration of the market interior, including improvements to the historic stalls.
- removal of a 1960s ‘false floor’ at the Trinity St entrance to reveal the original design.
- roof-mounted solar panels, and integrated battery storage.
- repairs to the H.Samuel market clock.
- a new 70-seat eating area on the ground floor.
- a new activity and education room.
- drainage improvements.
- the installation of energy-efficient LED lighting.
Cabinet Member for Investment & Development, Cllr Russell Goodway, said: “Customers have been visiting Cardiff Market for more than a century and our extensive renovation plans aim to ensure a viable and sustainable future for the building, preserve and enhance its heritage, and ensure it remains the bustling heart of the city centre for many years to come.”
The market, which is home to 61 eclectic independent businesses including traditional greengrocers, butchers and fishmongers, street food stalls, artisan producers, clothing, music and hardware stalls and more, will remain open throughout the works, with some traders relocated into nearby accommodation on a temporary short-term basis.
If successful, the works are currently expected to begin in Summer 2024 and take approximately two years to complete.
