Landsec given permission to revamp former Debenhams into city square

Landsec has secured planning permission from Cardiff City Council to transform a former Debenhams unit into a 102,000 sq ft city square.

The redevelopment, designed in collaboration with over 5,000 local residents, will respond to consumer demand for high-quality leisure experiences, green spaces, and family-friendly environments.

Bruce Findlay, managing director for Retail at Landsec, said: “We believe in the future of well managed retail spaces and this approval is a significant milestone in our long-term investment strategy for St David’s. The city square project underscores our commitment to creating exceptional experiences for our visitors which, in turn, provides a robust platform for our brand partners to grow.

“Our plans will transform a former failing department store into a new public space, equivalent to almost one and a half football pitches, which incorporates nature, play and leisure. This will replace the 1970s concrete buildings and provide a compelling all-day destination with new hospitality and leisure experiences for the local community and visitors to Cardiff city centre.”

St David’s continues to be the destination of choice for leading retailers, with numerous brands choosing the centre for their debut in Wales.

In late 2024, international fashion retailer Pull&Bear, British womenswear brand Sosandar, and Danish homeware brand Sostrene Grene all opened their first Welsh stores at St David’s. Sportswear retailer JD will also be opening a 32,000 sq ft new store later this year.

This investment underscores Landsec’s long-term commitment to retail, reaffirming confidence in the sector’s future and its ability to drive sustainable economic growth.

Landsec’s retail portfolio has demonstrated strong performance, with occupancy now exceeding pre-pandemic levels at 96%, reinforcing its strategic focus on high-quality, experience-led retail environments.