As Cardiff Market faces a historic makeover, traders balance their worry with cautious hope for future prosperity.
Traders at Cardiff market are worried about the market restoration project, a £6.5 million project to preserve the 130 year old Victorian market.
The restoration initiative, funded by the government and Council, aims to modernize the historic marketplace, causing concern among some traders about its impact on their businesses.
“Restoration to us is a major inconvenience. I mean, I know the outcome will be hopefully good in the end. We also know that rent is a lot more expensive. I think generally most people would have been happy if it just stayed as it is,” said Joseph Wright, a shoe repair and key cut shop owner.
Plans for the restoration include revealing original design features, restoring traditional entrances and stalls, repairing the iconic glass roof, and upgrading the Victorian drainage system.
However, not everyone is worried. Some traders are hopeful that the restoration will reinvigorate the market.
Allan Parkins, who sells records, said “Overall, it’s quite positive news. The market does need restoration. The roof itself is going to be soft no matter of years. It’s a very positive project that could be very positive for Cardiff for independent businesses and people in the market.”
“We might fear diversity at the moment, but it’s important to get more youngsters involved. Instead of just visiting one store, they should wander around the entire Cardiff market, which will help increase its appeal to them,” said Charles Brown, a clothing store owner
The Cardiff Market, established in 1891, has a long history as a focal point of city life. The restoration project aims to protect its rich culture and history for future generations.
“We should make sure that restoration is done right. It keeps kind of the culture and the history of the market, instead of kind of just whitewashed out and then something new, then also be quite good to have reassurances about the protection of traders inside the market as well,” said Allan Parkins.
Additionally, energy-efficient LED lighting and solar panels will be installed, aligning with broader environmental goals.
“The project will contribute to our decarbonisation goals by improved energy efficiency and increasing the renewable energy supply,” said Julie James, Welsh Government Climate Change Minister.
The restoration project for Cardiff Market is anticipated to commence in the summer of 2024. While a specific start date has yet to be determined, preparations are underway for this significant phase in the market’s history.
During the restoration works, the market will remain open. To facilitate this, the restoration will take place on a phased basis. Aisles of tenants will be temporarily relocated to units on the Hayes, immediately outside the market, for up to 12 weeks. This approach is designed to minimize disruption to both traders and customers.