Cardiff’s Debenhams Department Store Faces Near-Complete Demolition
The iconic Debenhams store in Cardiff is nearly demolished, paving the way for a new public square.
Cardiff, Wales, Debenhams, St David’s, Demolition, Public Square
Cardiff: The Debenhams department store in the city center is almost gone. Photos show the extensive demolition work at the site. This store was once one of the busiest in Wales.
Debenhams opened in 1982 and was a key part of the St David’s shopping arcade. It served shoppers for 39 years before closing in 2021 when the chain went into administration.
The site has been empty for years. In August 2024, Land Securities proposed plans to demolish it and create a public square. This reflects the big changes in city center retail.
Other historic department stores have also closed recently. David Morgan shut down in 2005 after 125 years, and Howells closed in March 2023 after 158 years. Both have been redeveloped.
Today, nearly all of Debenhams’ interior is gone, leaving just the facade. It’s hard to believe it was once bustling with shoppers.
Land Securities plans to transform the area into a public square. The new space will feature a splash pad, a performance stage, and areas for markets and food vendors.
The £17 million project will create a 102,000 square foot public space. It will include two new restaurants and smaller kiosks for food and drinks.
Helen Morgan, the center director at St David’s, expressed excitement about the new city square. She believes it will bring life back to this part of Cardiff.
They are currently waiting for a decision from Cardiff City Council on their planning application. More details will be shared soon.