Plans have been submitted to transform Cardiff's Queens Arcade, a 32-year-old shopping centre, into a hospitality-led destination. The proposals, submitted to Cardiff City Council by Lansec, the owner and operator of St David's Cardiff, include restoring the Working Street entrance and introducing three new restaurants in street-facing units.
Background and Decline
The Queens Arcade opened in 1994 on the site of the former Allders department store. It once featured a sweeping staircase leading to brands like The Pier and Argos, with Les Rendez-vous coffee shop serving baguettes on the lower level. However, over three decades, the number of empty units grew due to the decline of retail and competition from John Lewis and St David's 2 on The Hayes. Les Rendez-vous closed on Christmas Eve 2022 after more than 30 years, citing the cost of living crisis, the Covid pandemic, and a lack of footfall.
Previous Plans and New Vision
In 2021, a radical plan to demolish the shopping centre for a new street with a hotel failed to progress. Now, Lansec aims to bring "fresh brands and experiences to complement the retail, dining, and leisure experience offered at St David's and across the wider city centre." The plans detail a lively new space fronted by three restaurants, with a restored façade on Working Street maintaining the grand entrance.
Statements from Lansec
Helen Morgan, centre director at St David's Cardiff, said: “Our exciting new plans for Queens Arcade build on our long-standing investment in Cardiff. Our plans will elevate the site in line with other areas of the city, enhancing the experience for locals and tourists visiting us at St David's and the wider city. We know our guests at St David's expect best-in-class experiences, and these plans to enhance its appeal as a leading retail and leisure destination in the city create even more reasons to visit. The redevelopment of Queens Arcade also creates new job opportunities in our community, and is designed to complement everything that our brilliant city has to offer.”
Current Occupancy and Future Plans
Occupancy at St David's has reached 97% following the openings of Wales-firsts such as Sephora, Pureseoul, and Pop Mart, as well as a flagship JD Sports. The UK's largest Hollywood Bowl, featuring the operator's first-ever e-karting offering, is set to open later this year. Phase one of the Queens Arcade development plans are pending approval with Cardiff City Council, with leasing updates and phase two expected to follow. Confirmed brands and further phases will be shared in due course.
