Howells store redevelopment at Howells Of Cardiff Trinity Street, Cathays, Cardiff

“Proposed redevelopment (Phases 4 and 5) of part of the former Howells department store, including partial demolition, to deliver apartments and studio apartments (Use Class C3), a hotel (Use Class C1) and flexible commercial floorspace (Use Classes A1, A2, A3, B1, D1 and D2) including a new residential block (up to 11 storeys), re- instatement of dormer windows to St Mary Street frontage, upward extension (additional storeys) to the Wharton Street/Trinity Street corner…”

“The final amended scheme that is now considered through this report is considered to be the necessary quantum and form of development and restoration/refurbishment that will ensure a deliverable and viable scheme to secure the long-term future of a significant landmark building. In doing so, through adaptive reuse it will also deliver a transformational regeneration of a key city centre site.”

“Having regard to the Local Planning Authority's statutory duties it is considered that the special interest of the building would be preserved. Accordingly, it is recommended that Listed Building Consent be granted, subject to conditions.”

“The 13-storey building proposed for the centre of the site will dwarf the adjacent listed buildings and Conservation Area, compromising the historic and aesthetic context of the area; • This is a damaging, inappropriate and insensitive proposal that will severely impair the historic fabric of one of the city’s focal points - one tourists and other visitors view and admire.”

“This consistent terrace of modest three storey buildings will be overwhelmed by the structures looming above, the impact being particularly acute with the four- storey upwards extension to the former gas and plumbing warehouse, the only part of this terrace which has an original pitched roof form (which would be lost) • The 1960s corner building extension is at least one floor too many, to the extent that it overwhelms the scale and character of the building beneath.”

“As identified earlier, the proposal results in a complex balance of heritage harm and public benefit. While there are areas of moderate to major adverse impact - particularly on the Trinity Street elevations and through the introduction of the central tower - these are to be weighed against the substantial community and heritage benefits which are considered below: -”

“HERITAGE BENEFITS COMMUNITY BENEFITS Rescue of Grade II* asset and communal value returned to people of Cardiff. Catalyst for regeneration of area – facilitating the role and function of the City Centre to adapt to changing consumer trends. This is vitally important in maintaining competitiveness of Cardiff as a destination across the UK Regions.”

“The application was granted subject to the completion of a legal agreement, the conditions in section 13 and referral to Cadw, with an amendment to condition 16 regarding external finishing materials.”