Public realm / St David's Shopping Centre, Cardiff
City Gardens, former Debenhams
Demolition and enabling works turning a redundant 102,000 sq ft department store into Cardiff's new public square.
Landsec's £17m redevelopment of the former Debenhams building at St David's Shopping Centre is transforming a redundant 102,000 sq ft retail unit into a new public square opening in 2026. JPS delivered the full demolition of the existing structure, a new Alumasc Derbigum Olivine three-layer felt roof to the retained elements, and a bespoke cladding system to futureproof what remains for future retail use - all inside one of Wales' busiest shopping centres, without closing it.
Client priorities
- Safe demolition in a live, high-footfall retail environment
- Zero disruption to retailers and the public
- Preparation of the site for a new landscaped public square
- Long-life waterproofing to retained structures
- A flexible cladding enclosure for future commercial units
Key challenges
- Demolition directly adjacent to active retail units
- Strict noise, dust and vibration control
- Complex structural retention requirements
- Weather exposure during open roof phases
- Tight city centre logistics and access constraints
Our solutions
Phased sequencing, robust temporary works and continuous coordination with centre management allowed the demolition to proceed safely without affecting trading. The retained roof areas received an Alumasc Derbigum Olivine three-layer felt system, chosen for its durability and proven performance during long exposed phases. A custom cladding enclosure now protects the retained structures behind a clean, modern façade ready for future fit-out.
Outcome
- Safe, efficient demolition completed on programme
- No operational downtime for St David's Shopping Centre
- High-performance roofing installed to all retained structures
- Futureproofed building envelope ready for new tenants
- Site prepared for the 2026 opening of Cardiff's new public square
7 photographs from site.
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Tendering something awkward?
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