Delays to work on Cardiff’s St David’s Hall have sparked frustration among Cardiff Council members, with the cabinet member for culture, sport, and parks, Cllr Jennifer Burke, expressing her exasperation at the lack of progress. The iconic music venue has been closed since September 2023 due to the discovery of reinforced autoclaved aerated concrete (RAAC) within the building, a type of lightweight concrete known to deteriorate with age. The closure was initially anticipated to be temporary, with a planned reopening in 2025. However, as of now, there are no visible signs of any restoration work being carried out, pushing the expected reopening to autumn or winter 2026.
Cllr Rodney Berman, the Liberal Democrats group leader at the council, raised concerns during a full council meeting about the ongoing delays in addressing the issues at St David’s Hall. He questioned the reasons behind the continuous setbacks and urged for more transparency in the communication of updates regarding the venue’s renovation progress. The last update provided in August 2024 indicated that St David’s Hall might not resume activities until 2026, pending necessary approvals and remediation work.
The scrutiny committee overseeing the restoration project highlighted that the listed building consent, a crucial requirement for initiating repairs, had not been sought by Academy Music Group (AMG), the organisation tasked with managing the venue. Cllr Burke assured that council officers are actively collaborating with AMG on the restoration plan and pledged to keep councillors informed of any advancements. She expressed her frustration with the current situation and acknowledged the need for improved communication and accountability in the project management process.
Despite a recent update suggesting a potential handover to AMG by May 2025, following completion of the planning process, significant delays in the commencement of renovation work are expected. Cllr Berman stressed the importance of disseminating information equally among all council members to ensure transparency and accountability. The complexities involved in addressing the RAAC-related challenges have contributed to cost escalations and extended timelines, further complicating the restoration timeline for St David’s Hall.
As stakeholders continue to navigate the intricate process of remediation and restoration, the Cardiff community eagerly anticipates the eventual reopening of St David’s Hall, a cultural landmark that holds significant historical and sentimental value. The cultivation of a conducive environment for open dialogue, efficient decision-making, and proactive collaboration among all parties involved in the project remains paramount in expediting the restoration process. With a shared commitment to preserving the legacy of St David’s Hall and revitalising its role in Cardiff’s vibrant cultural landscape, stakeholders strive to overcome obstacles and ensure the successful rejuvenation of this iconic music venue.