Cardiff approves 50-storey skyscraper which is set to become Wales’ tallest building

Plans for a 50-storey skyscraper in Cardiff—set to become the tallest building in Wales—have received approval. The proposal was submitted by REAP 3, a subsidiary of build-to-rent developer BlueCastle Capital.

The scheme includes 528 rental apartments, comprising 344 one-bedroom and 184 two-bedroom units. In addition to the residential tower, the development will feature a two-storey pavilion building providing commercial space and supporting amenities.

The project replaces an earlier 35-storey scheme designed by Scott Brownrigg for local developer Rightacres, which was approved in June 2023 and was also expected to become the tallest building in the country. REAP 3 has since revised and expanded the plans, stating that the updated proposal builds on the ongoing success of the wider Central Square district.

Designed by 5plus Architects, the new tower will surpass the current tallest building in Wales, the 29-storey Meridian Tower. Once completed, it is expected to become the second-tallest building in the UK outside London, after the 64-storey Deansgate Square South Tower in Manchester.

The site is located in central Cardiff, between the Principality Stadium and Cardiff Central railway station, and forms part of the wider Central Square regeneration scheme led by Cardiff Council, with a masterplan by Foster + Partners.

The development does not currently include affordable housing, as the proposed tenure was deemed financially unviable. However, a planning statement notes that affordable housing contributions may be secured through Section 106 agreements, subject to further agreement.