Plans to convert the vacant Scott Harbour office complex in Cardiff Bay into residential apartments have received official approval. The proposal, initiated in 2023, aims to repurpose the underutilised office space into 101 modern apartments, showcasing the ongoing trend in urban development towards mixed-use spaces.
Located on Pierhead Street, the Scott Harbour complex will undergo a phased transformation. The project is set to revitalise the dormant office buildings by incorporating residential units along with additional amenities. The plans include not only apartments but also a gym, a commercial unit, and a co-working office space, creating a vibrant community atmosphere.
Recent images of the Scott Harbour site reveal significant preparatory work, with scaffolding erected around the building and construction vehicles actively engaged. This redevelopment marks a substantial investment in the Cardiff Bay area, contributing to its ongoing revitalisation.
The local council officially approved the development on 26 July 2024. In their 2023 planning statement, the developers emphasised the project’s potential to convert a vacant office building, which has shown no market interest, into much-needed residential accommodation. This reflects a broader trend within the city, where there is a growing demand for high-quality housing.
The Scott Harbour development is part of the developers’ expanding portfolio of prominent projects in Cardiff. They have been instrumental in several key developments in the city centre, including new headquarters for major organisations, along with flagship projects in Central Square. Additionally, they are leading the Central Quay development, which will see a former brewery site transformed into a mixed-use space with 700 apartments and substantial commercial areas.
The new residential units at Scott Harbour will be distributed across the first to fourth floors of the building. The development will offer a variety of apartment sizes: 72 one-bedroom, 22 two-bedroom, and seven three-bedroom units. According to the council’s planning report, ten of these apartments will feature private balconies, while 36 will be designated as serviced apartments, catering to both long-term residents and short-term visitors.
The Scott Harbour site, comprising several office buildings, was originally constructed in 1997. The redevelopment will focus primarily on internal modifications, although some external changes are planned. These include recladding work, the addition of new panelling, and enhanced glazing to modernise the building’s façade. A new entrance will also be created on Bute Place to improve accessibility.
Furthermore, the project will retain the existing underground car park, accessible from Falcon Drive, which will provide 116 car parking spaces. The development will also feature 134 cycle parking spaces on the basement level, promoting sustainable transport options.
The conversion of Scott Harbour into residential apartments aligns with broader urban development trends prioritising the repurposing of obsolete office spaces. This approach not only addresses the pressing need for housing but also contributes to the economic vitality of the area by attracting residents and businesses alike.
As Cardiff continues to grow and evolve, projects like the Scott Harbour redevelopment exemplify the city’s commitment to adaptive reuse and sustainable urban planning. By transforming underutilised office spaces into vibrant residential communities, Cardiff is positioning itself as a forward-thinking city capable of meeting the diverse needs of its population.
With construction underway, the Scott Harbour project is poised to make a significant impact on Cardiff Bay’s landscape. Future residents can look forward to enjoying well-serviced living spaces with access to private and communal amenities, all set against the picturesque backdrop of Cardiff Bay.
In conclusion, the Scott Harbour redevelopment represents a notable milestone in Cardiff’s ongoing urban transformation. As the city continues to adapt and grow, such projects will play a crucial role in shaping its future, ensuring a dynamic and sustainable urban environment for generations to come.
