Landsec given green light to transform former Debenhams into city square
Real estate firm Landsec has been given the green light to turn the city's former Debenhams into a new green city square.
Real estate firm Landsec has been given the green light to turn the city’s former Debenhams into a new green city square.
In £17m investment from the property giant, the area in St David’s shopping centre will be transformed into a 102,000sq ft city square, housing a splash pad, space for outdoor performances, local street food vendors, markets, and more.
Two new restaurant and cafe buildings will be added to the site, while the area will also be landscaped with a series of native plants and trees.
The new square is forecast to be open by 2026, according to the shopping centre.
Landsec was granted permission from Cardiff City Council for the redevelopment, with the plans designed in collaboration with more than 5,000 local residents.
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Landsec managing director for retail Bruce Findlay said: “Our plans will transform a former failing department store into a new public space, equivalent to almost one-and-a-half football pitches, incorporating nature, play and leisure.
“This will replace the 1970s concrete buildings and provide a compelling all-day destination with new hospitality and leisure experiences for the local community and visitors to Cardiff city centre.”
The city’s former Debenhams site was built in 1981, before the retail giant filed for administration in 2019.
The department store was bought by Boohoo in January 2021, purchasing its brand, ecommerce operations and assets under a £55 million deal.
The retailer reported strong sales and growth in its marketplace model in December.
Debenhams pulled in a pre-tax profit of £3.27m in the year to 29 February, up from the £721,000 loss the year prior.
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