Green light for £6.5m Cardiff Market restoration
A £6.5m restoration of Cardiff Market is set to go ahead after councillors secured full funding for the project.
Cardiff Council secured £3.1m of funding for the project from the Welsh Government’s ‘Transforming Towns’ programme.
The project had also previously secured a £2.1m grant from the National Lottery Heritage Fund, with the remainder of the work being paid for by the Shared Prosperity Fund and the local council.
Expected to begin in summer 2024, work will commence to preserve and future-proof the 130-year-old Cardiff Market, which is Grade II listed.
The work will see original design features revealed, the restoration of traditional entrances and original stalls, the glass roof repaired, and improvements made to the Victorian drainage system.
Repairs will also be made to the H.Samuel market clock, a ‘false floor’ installed at the Trinity Street entrance will be removed, and a new activity and education room introduced, as well as a new 70-seat eating area.
Council leader councillor Huw Thomas said: “The confirmation of this funding from Welsh Government is fantastic news. The Market is one of Cardiff’s most important heritage buildings, as well as a vital city centre space for small independent traders.
“Anybody who has visited in recent years will know that it’s a special place, with a unique atmosphere built on 130 years of history. Our restoration plans will preserve and protect that history and ensure that it remains the bustling heart of the city that we all know and love, for many years to come.”
Welsh Government climate change minister Julie James added: “This is another fantastic example of the real difference Transforming Towns funding can make to securing a sustainable future for landmark buildings in our town and city centres that will enhance the visitor experience for generations to come, and I look forward to seeing works progress.”