Watkin Jones, the UK's leading developer and manager of residential for rent, has received a resolution to grant planning permission for a 400-unit co-living scheme situated at Custom House Street in Cardiff.

The project will deliver the regeneration of a long-standing vacant site positioned in a prominent city centre location close to St David's Shopping Centre and Cardiff Central Station, introducing a new landmark building to the local city skyline.

The approved scheme will features 400 fully furnished co-living studios complemented by a broad assortment of shared amenities. These include communal kitchens and dining spaces, lounges, fitness facilities, and landscaped communal areas. At the ground floor level, publicly accessible co-working areas will be introduced to increase street-level activity and enhance the vibrant city centre environment.

-- Advertisement --

Cardiff continues to witness strong demand for high-quality rental accommodation, especially from young professionals, alongside a pronounced shortage of city centre housing tailored to smaller households. The proposed development responds directly to this market demand by providing professionally managed living options. This is intended to assist in retaining graduates and young professionals within the city, reinforcing Cardiff's ongoing growth as a major hub for business and education.

Alongside the delivery of new homes, the development will improve the surrounding environment through public realm enhancements designed to support local businesses and draw extra footfall and spend into the city centre.

Subject to the final completion of a Section 106 agreement, formal planning permission is anticipated in late summer. This scheme builds upon the existing footprint of Watkin Jones within the city, following the practical completion of Tai Afon—phase one of its Central Quay development—last month.

Iain Smith, Planning Director at Watkin Jones, said: "Bringing this co-living scheme forward marks an important step for a prominent site in the heart of Cardiff that has been vacant for a number of years.

"It reflects the strength of demand we continue to see for high-quality, professionally managed rental housing, and how our pipeline is evolving to meet changing living preferences. Custom House will provide much-needed city centre living for Cardiff, while also making a significant contribution to the ongoing regeneration and wider economic activity in the city centre."