The latest proposals, submitted in the last month, feature 528 homes alongside 2,430m2 of internal amenity space and a garden on plots 4 and 5 of the Central Square development. If approved, the scheme would be Wales\u2019s tallest building.<\/p>\n
In addition to one and two-bed apartments, the latest scheme includes a gym, co-working space and storage facilities, planning documents say.<\/p>\n
The scheme, for Reap 3, a subsidiary of Bluecastle Capital, also includes a two-storey pavilion containing a restaurant and terrace, 52 cycle spaces in the adjoining square, and extensive landscaping.<\/p>\n
5Plus said the building\u2019s appearance took \u2018tonal references from the city skyline, civic buildings and adjacent buildings within Central Square\u2019. Planning documents say that the smooth, polished fa\u00e7ade has been designed around high rainfall in the area.<\/p>\n
The documents say that the earlier design by Scott Brownrigg had \u2018many positive aspects\u2019 and that the 5Plus scheme builds on these.<\/p>\n
The 35-storey Scott Brownrigg scheme included 332 rental flats and 32 serviced apartments. It secured consent in May 2024 but went undelivered after the key site was sold by Rightacres Property to Bluecaste Capital last year.<\/p>\n
Maccreanor Lavington worked as concept architects to draw up plans before 5Plus was brought in to develop them.<\/p>\n
Maccreanor Lavington told the AJ that it was engaged \u2018at the outset of the project, supporting the client during the early phase of site acquisition. This included initial pre-application discussions.<\/p>\n
\u2018Our concept proposals have since been developed further by 5Plus Architects, who are actively involved across much of BlueCastle Capital\u2019s portfolio. The current design is progressing really well.\u2019<\/p>\n
Bluecastle has said that it wants to \u2018improve and optimise key elements\u2019 and was looking to \u2018optimise the height and improve the character of the building to provide it with the landmark status worthy of the site\u2019.<\/p>\n
It added that it also sought to \u2018develop the design of the pavilion, increase the amount of public realm space around the building and create a true destination for the city\u2019.<\/p>\n
Ed Williams, chief executive officer of BlueCastle Capital, said in a statement shared with the AJ: \u2018Central Square will be a landmark development for Cardiff, setting a new standard for high-quality homes to rent in the city. <\/p>\n
\u2018Our vision is to deliver an iconic building that reflects the ambition of the Welsh capital and contributes positively to its skyline, economy and community. We look forward to engaging with residents and stakeholders as part of the planning process to help shape the final design\u2019.<\/p>\n
The latest scheme would likewise \u2018expand and optimise the amenity provision\u2019 and \u2018enhance the energy performance and sustainability\u2019 of the structure, according to planning documents.<\/p>\n