Cardiff Council Reveals Future Plans for Historic Cardiff Buildings
Cardiff Council has recently made a significant announcement regarding the future of several iconic buildings in Cardiff. These buildings include The Mansion House on Richmond Road, The Old Library on the Hayes, and the Merchant Place/Cory’s Buildings in Cardiff Bay. Plans have been outlined to put one of these buildings on the market while repurposing others for educational purposes. The final decisions on these ambitious plans are set to be made by councillors at an upcoming meeting.
A spokesperson for Cardiff Council emphasised the importance of these buildings in shaping Cardiff’s history and character. The council sees itself as the custodian of these heritage sites and is taking steps to ensure their protection and preservation for future generations. One of the key initiatives involves the refurbishment of Merchant Place and the Cory’s Buildings, with progress well underway to repurpose these historic structures at no cost to the taxpayer.
The next focus for the council is the Grade II listed Mansion House, which is in need of a sustainable long-term plan. To achieve this, the council is initiating a process to attract capital investment through an open market approach. Additionally, there is a proposal to accelerate the Royal Welsh College of Drama’s investment in the Old Library by accepting an offer from Virgin Money to surrender their lease on a ground floor unit.
Merchant Place and Cory’s Buildings, two significant landmarks in Cardiff Bay, are undergoing transformation into an educational facility for Cardiff Sixth Form College, with completion expected by summer 2026. The plans for each historic building are carefully curated to ensure their integrity and relevance in the modern context.
In a detailed report to be presented to the Cardiff Council cabinet, the status of the Mansion House, The Old Library, and the ongoing developments at the Merchant Place/Cory’s Buildings will be thoroughly discussed. The current underutilisation of the Mansion House’s upper floors presents an opportunity for strategic decisions on its future use, potentially involving the market release of the property.
The Old Library, a historically significant building leased to the Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama, is undergoing a restoration project that aims to introduce new performance, exhibition, and rehearsal spaces. The proposed amendments to the lease agreement seek to streamline the building’s management and usage, ensuring a conducive environment for cultural and educational activities.
Before final decisions are made, these proposals will be reviewed by the economy and culture committee, underscoring the comprehensive approach taken by the council towards these heritage sites. The commitment to preserving Cardiff’s architectural legacy while adapting to contemporary needs is a testament to the city’s rich history and vibrant future. Cardiff residents and visitors alike can look forward to experiencing these historic buildings in innovative and engaging ways.