Developer Thackeray has unveiled a series of images showcasing the anticipated look of the £100m redevelopment of Cardiff’s renowned Howells building. The retail component of this revamped structure will be christened Hayes @ Howells, boasting 15,000 sq ft of space tailored for upscale tenants. Notably, House of Fraser was the sole occupant of this building until its departure earlier this year.

In addition to the retail space, Thackeray’s vision for the site includes a transformation of the former Baptist church, potentially into a gastronomic or recreational hotspot. The redevelopment blueprint also features 40,000 sq ft dedicated to restaurants and leisure along St Mary Street, complemented by 25,000 sq ft of premium office space. The plans further encompass a 25,000 sq ft basement leisure area adjacent to the chapel, targeting bar and restaurant ventures. In the vicinity, proposals have been laid out for 62 studio apartments and an additional 40,000 sq ft of office accommodations.

Thackeray Group took ownership of the site from receivership in the previous year, marking the beginning of this ambitious redevelopment journey.