Whitchurch and Llandaff Living Issue 70

cardiff<br />

market<br />

has witnessed<br />

<strong>and</strong> withstood<br />

historical<br />

events<br />

population.<br />

The site was originally that of<br />

Cardiff gaol. This imposing prison<br />

housed a variety of offenders,<br />

reflecting the changing attitudes<br />

towards punishment <strong>and</strong><br />

rehabilitation over the years. Initially<br />

known for its harsh conditions <strong>and</strong><br />

strict discipline, the gallows were<br />

located on the site of the current<br />

St. Mary Street entrance of Cardiff<br />

Market, where Dic Penderyn was<br />

hanged on 13 August 1831.<br />

During the 20th century, Cardiff<br />

Market witnessed <strong>and</strong> withstood<br />

the impacts of significant historical<br />

events, including both World Wars.<br />

During these challenging times, the<br />

market remained a vital source of<br />

food <strong>and</strong> goods for the residents<br />

of Cardiff. It was during the postwar<br />

era that the market truly<br />

cemented its role as a community<br />

hub, providing not only essential<br />

goods but also a sense of normalcy<br />

<strong>and</strong> continuity amidst the changing<br />

external conditions. Since 1975,<br />

the building has been listed <strong>and</strong> is<br />

currently Grade II.<br />

The latter part of the 20th century<br />

<strong>and</strong> the early 21st century brought<br />

new challenges, particularly from<br />

the rise of supermarkets <strong>and</strong><br />

online shopping. However, Cardiff<br />

Market adapted by diversifying<br />

its offerings <strong>and</strong> enhancing the<br />

shopping experience. Today, it not<br />

only serves traditional products<br />

but also features a range of<br />

international cuisine, artisan crafts,<br />

<strong>and</strong> unique gift items. The market<br />

has embraced a more modern<br />

retail approach while maintaining<br />

the historic charm <strong>and</strong> architectural<br />

beauty that have long defined it.<br />

In 1980, a plaque was placed at<br />

the St. Mary Street entrance to the<br />

market by the National Union of<br />

Mineworkers to commemorate Dic<br />

Penderyn's death.<br />

In recent years, there has been<br />

a growing recognition of the<br />

importance of sustainability <strong>and</strong><br />

supporting local economies. Cardiff<br />

Market has played a key role in<br />

this movement, with consumers<br />

increasingly turning to local<br />

vendors for fresh, locally-sourced<br />

products. This shift has helped<br />

to reinvigorate the market <strong>and</strong><br />

underscore its relevance in today’s<br />

retail l<strong>and</strong>scape.<br />

This summer, a renovation<br />

project worth £6.5 million is set<br />

to enhance the market, with work<br />

commencing in the summer.<br />

Despite the construction, the<br />

market will continue operations.<br />

For approximately 12 weeks,<br />

stallholders will be relocated to<br />

temporary units situated in The<br />

Hayes, right outside the market.<br />

The refurbishment plan includes<br />

the installation of a dining area that<br />

can accommodate <strong>70</strong> people, <strong>and</strong><br />

the restoration of the roof <strong>and</strong> the<br />

market's original Victorian windows.<br />

Additionally, the traditional<br />

entrances on Trinity Street <strong>and</strong> St<br />

Mary Street, along with the original<br />

stalls, will be refurbished. Upgrades<br />

will also be made to the Victorianera<br />

drainage system. Replacement<br />

of glazing <strong>and</strong> tiles, along with<br />

repairs to the H Samuel market<br />

clock, are also planned. Lastly,<br />

the market will benefit from the<br />

addition of a new room dedicated<br />

to activities <strong>and</strong> education.<br />

This follows a £2.1m grant from the<br />

National Lottery Heritage Fund. The<br />

aim of the restoration is to futureproof<br />

the market, <strong>and</strong> to continue<br />

offering the diverse goods <strong>and</strong> the<br />

fostering of community connections<br />

that have taken place since the<br />

market first opened its doors.<br />

Cardiff Market is home to a diverse range of stalls<br />

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