…By Alan Peterson for TDPel Media. Exciting plans have been unveiled for a significant multi-million-pound renovation of Cardiff’s renowned Central Market.
The proposed project includes various enhancements such as a new 70-seat seating area on the ground floor and the restoration of the building’s original features.
Cardiff Council, pending approval from planners and securing funding, aims to “protect, preserve, and future-proof” the Grade II* Listed structure.
Established in 1891 and owned by Cardiff Council, the Central Market attracts approximately 2.2 million visitors each year.
It serves as a home to 61 independent businesses, ranging from fishmongers and greengrocers to street food stands.
If the renovation plans are given the go-ahead, Cardiff Council assures that the market’s businesses will continue to operate throughout the works, with some traders temporarily relocated to nearby accommodations.
The expected timeline for the project is a summer 2024 start, with completion anticipated in approximately two years.
Key components of the plans, contingent on securing funding and planning permission, encompass restoring the roof, installing solar panels, and repairing the iconic H.Samuel market clock.
Notably, the proposals also include the addition of a new 70-seat eating area on the ground floor.
While this seating area would necessitate the relocation of some stalls, Cardiff Council emphasizes that this decision is still far from final.
The inclusion of a seating area is seen as a positive development, especially considering the recent influx of new food vendors in the market.
The comprehensive plans, set to be submitted for planning permission, outline various restoration and improvement measures.
These include restoring the Trinity Street and St Mary Street entrances, revitalizing the roof, original windows, and external elevations, replacing glazing and tiles, enhancing the market’s interior and historic stalls, removing a 1960s ‘false floor’ to reveal the original design at the Trinity St entrance, installing roof-mounted solar panels with integrated battery storage, repairing the H.Samuel market clock, creating a new activity and education room, improving drainage, and installing energy-efficient LED lighting.
Cllr Russell Goodway, Cabinet Member for Investment & Development, expressed the council’s commitment to the market’s preservation and future.
He stated, “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.”