Cardiff City Council have recently published plans to renovate Cardiffs amazing indoor market.
Cardiff’s iconic Central Market is poised to undergo a transformative renovation project worth millions of pounds, aimed at safeguarding its heritage, preserving its Grade II* Listed status, and ensuring its longevity for future generations. The ambitious plans include the restoration of original design features, the addition of a new ground floor seated area for food, and an improved presentation of the market’s rich history.
First opened in 1891, the Central Market holds a significant place in the city’s past, attracting an impressive 2.2 million visitors annually. In recognition of its historical significance, the Cardiff Council, which owns the market, intends to enhance visitors’ experience by incorporating visual storytelling elements and projections that vividly showcase the market’s intriguing history.
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However, the successful execution of the plans is contingent on securing the necessary funding and obtaining planning permission. Key elements of the proposed renovation project encompass the restoration of the Trinity Street and St Mary Street entrances, revitalisation of the roof, original windows, and external elevations, replacement of glazing and tiles, and the refurbishment of the market’s interior, including improvements to the historic stalls.
Furthermore, the project aims to unveil the market’s original design by removing a 1960s ‘false floor’ at the Trinity Street entrance. To ensure sustainable energy practices, the renovation plans incorporate the installation of roof-mounted solar panels coupled with integrated battery storage. Other notable aspects include the repair of the H.Samuel market clock, the establishment of a new 70-seat eating area on the ground floor, the addition of an activity and education room, drainage improvements, and the installation of energy-efficient LED lighting.
Cllr Russell Goodway, the Cabinet Member for Investment & Development, expressed his enthusiasm for the project, stating, “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.”
Throughout the renovation period, which is expected to commence in the summer of 2024 and span approximately two years, the market will remain open to the public. Some traders will be temporarily relocated to nearby accommodation to ensure minimal disruption during the works.
The Central Market currently houses a diverse array of 61 independent businesses, ranging from traditional greengrocers, butchers, and fishmongers to street food stalls, artisan producers, clothing boutiques, music shops, and hardware vendors. With its renovation, the market is poised to not only preserve its historical charm but also adapt to modern needs and continue serving as a vibrant hub within the city centre.
As the plans progress, Cardiff residents and visitors eagerly anticipate the revival of the Central Market, which promises to reinvigorate this beloved landmark and secure its place as a bustling centerpiece for generations to come.