Historic Cardiff Cinema Faces Demolition for Affordable Housing
A former cinema building on City Road in Cardiff, long standing in a state of disrepair, is set to be demolished to make way for a new development of affordable apartments and commercial units. The ‘Gaiety’ building, located at 195-197 City Road in Roath, has been vacant for an extended period.
Key Takeaways
- The ‘Gaiety’ cinema building on City Road, Cardiff, will be demolished.
- The site will be redeveloped into 70 affordable housing apartments and ground-floor commercial units.
- The project is a collaboration between Draycott Group and Wales and West Housing Association.
- The development aims to be “car-free” with ample cycle storage.
Redevelopment Plans
Draycott Group, in partnership with Wales and West Housing Association, has proposed to replace the existing structure with a modern building of up to seven storeys. This new development will provide 70 self-contained flats, all designated as 100 per cent affordable housing. The proposed accommodation includes 67 one-bedroom flats and three two-bedroom flats.
Community and Commercial Space
In addition to the residential units, the scheme includes plans for three commercial units on the ground floor, facing directly onto City Road. Residents will benefit from internal and external amenity spaces, as well as a private landscaped courtyard. The development is designed to be “car-free”, with secure cycle storage for 72 bicycles provided at the rear of the property.
Council Support
Cardiff Council’s planning committee is expected to review the application. A council report has indicated support for the principle of development, citing the site’s location within the City Road District Centre and its prolonged vacancy. The report deems the loss of the cinema building “acceptable” and suggests the mixed-use scheme aligns with local policy objectives. The committee is recommended to approve the application.
