Work opening up a hidden courtyard to create a new leisure location behind two of Cardiff’s historic arcades is expected to start shortly.
Owner of the Castle Arcade Quarter, Mansford, said its Castle Quarter Courtyard regeneration scheme will see the demolition and repurposing of the redundant former nightclub (Emporium), which sits in space behind High Street and Duke Street arcades.
The project has been boosted with Cardiff licensing authorities granted approval for the development of seven new bar/restaurant units as part of the project.
With the final public authority consent now in place, work will start in the coming months to demolish the former nightclub.
Construction will then begin in the new year to create the new open courtyard which will be surrounded by bar/restaurant units designed for independent hospitality businesses.
A new balcony will run around the courtyard at first floor level, opening up previously unused spaces above shops and uncovering and enhancing more of th arcade’s original listed features.
Phillip Morris, partner at property firm EJ Hales, which leads the development team, said: “Interest has always been strong in this development. We have been talking to some very exciting chefs and restaurateurs and with licensing now approved we expect to be able to confirm our first deals soon.
“This regeneration scheme will create much needed high quality leisure spaces at the heart of the city’s historic Castle Quarter. Designed with independents in mind, it will support local businesses and further build on Cardiff’s reputation as a food and hospitality destination.
Units will be available ranging from 500 sq ft up to 10,000 sq ft.
