Cardiff is investing £17mn to transform its center into a vibrant public square on the old Debenhams site.
The city council approved these plans. The square will have a splash pad and also space for shows. Markets and food vendors might use it. Debenhams closed back in 2021.
They are tearing the old building down right now. St David’s wants to keep part of the building for fun activities. Landsec is investing lots of money.
They are building this new public square and asked locals what they wanted first. Over 5,000 Cardiff people gave their views. Most said green spaces were very important, and they wanted developers to prioritize nature.
The shopping center director spoke and thinks this change will help Cardiff a lot. Approving it was a big step, she stated, and the community likes the idea too.
This new square helps Cardiff in many ways. It helps people and gives them reasons to visit St David’s so they can enjoy the city center more.
The approved plans include trees and native plants there for biodiversity. The splash pad is for families with kids. There is also a stage in that open space.
It allows them to put on performances, and markets can happen there, as can street food events. More new stores are coming to St David’s soon.
Carl’s Jr. arrives in spring 2025, and JD will open a large store later this year. A hot chocolate place named Knoops will open in the next few months.