New cafés, re-opening of arcades and on-going construction
FOR those who haven’t been to Cardiff city centre since lockdown began in March 2020, it might look a little different when you return.
Due to stay local lockdown restrictions, few people are venturing into the heart of the city, so here’s what’s been going on while you’ve been away.
Cardiff is currently sprinkled with yellow daffodils and social distance markings.
Exciting new building developments
Cardiff University Students’ Union
Work began on the students’ union in early 2018 and construction is set to finish this year.
The building has undergone a complete transformation with the original stairs being demolished and replaced by a modern-look entrance.
New tax office
HMRC and Cardiff bus station are the newest additions to Central Square where the new BBC and Cardiff University JOMEC buildings are located.
The impressive building is 12 storeys high and is home to 4,000 civil servants – or at least would be if most weren’t still working from home.
But some things never change, most of Wood Street is still lined with road works and temporary lights.
Cardiff bus station
And in maybe the biggest change to the skyline, progress continues on the 14-bay bus station that is due to be completed in late 2022.
Castle street
A new cycle path and bus friendly lanes along Castle Street are part of Cardiff Council’s clean air plan to reduce emissions in the city.
How does the high street look?
Topshop and Debenhams leave the high street
Shoppers will be missing two big names from the high street as Topshop and Debenhams have closed.
Topshop was bought by the online fashion retailer Asos in February this year, forcing all stores across the UK to close.
Debenhams will be re-opening, when restrictions allow, to sell the last of their stock before closing their doors for good.
The city centre streets have been eerily quiet with all non-essential retail being forced to close due to lockdown restrictions.
Cardiff’s arcades have been shut since December but recently opened for the public to walk through, so they can at least window shop.
New quirky cafés to look out for
Brodies coffee
Lovers of Brodies coffee, the little blue shack located in Gorsedd Gardens, will be pleased to know they are opening a new shop on North Road today.
Social Eats
Social Eats, below, is a brand new café opening on March 15.
Located on Salisbury Road, it is in the perfect location for students living in Cathays.
Parkside café
Parkside (below) is a quaint little café located near Heath park on St Anthony Street and is full of delicious treats.
It was opened in January 2021 by a mother and daughter duo who had always wanted to open a café together.
Pink Kiwi
Another brand new café to check out is Pink Kiwi. Currently operating as a takeaway dessert bar, the café hopes to broaden to breakfast, coffees and brunch when restrictions are lifted.
