Christmas shoppers heading to Cardiff in the future could face significant changes according to a report by Wales Online. The potential alterations, especially affecting those parking at John Lewis, are set to transform the city’s traffic landscape. The familiar queues leading up to John Lewis during the festive season may soon be a thing of the past as Cardiff undergoes a substantial revamp centred around the new Cardiff Crossrail tramway project.
The proposed Cardiff Crossrail tramway is expected to bring about a major reshuffle of the roads surrounding Callaghan Square. This reconfiguration could impact how shoppers access and park in the city centre. One of the key changes includes the closure of the junction of upper Bute Street and Callaghan Square to vehicles. This means drivers won’t be able to turn from Callaghan Square or Tyndall Street and head north towards John Lewis.
Furthermore, Penarth Road, passing by Cardiff Central car park and the upcoming tram platform, will become one-way southbound. This alteration will restrict access to John Lewis from that direction as well. As a result, motorists driving from the south might find the best route to be via St Mary Street. However, it’s important to note that the left turn from St Mary Street southbound onto Callaghan Square will also be eliminated, potentially affecting the journey back home.
The extensive modifications aim to accommodate the new tramway and a corresponding cycle lane, connecting Callaghan Square to Cardiff Central and the existing Cardiff Bay line. The tram is projected to extend to Cardiff Bay station and a potential future Pierhead Street station. Moreover, plans are in place to potentially expand the line eastward to Cardiff Parkway and northwest of the city, pending funding approval.
Although the changes are imminent, with the tramway anticipated to commence operations in late 2028 or early 2029, preparatory work is expected to commence sooner. The affected areas include Callaghan Square, Penarth Road, Bute Street, St Mary Street, Dumballs Road, John Street, Hope Street, and West Canal Wharf. Cardiff Council and Transport for Wales are seeking feedback on the proposed designs through an open consultation closing on October 27.
It is essential to note that all decisions regarding road alterations are subject to future Traffic Regulation Orders. The draft maps and 3D renders provided are for illustrative purposes and may be subject to further changes as the project progresses. Cardiff’s cityscape is set to transform significantly, promising a new era of transport infrastructure aimed at enhancing connectivity and sustainability.