Caerphilly is a town with potential and a vision to fulfil it. Visitors are already drawn to the historic Caerphilly Castle, and now the Caerphilly 2035 regeneration masterplan seeks to transform the town centre into a diverse and thriving place to live, work, and invest.
Ffos Caerffili spearheads the masterplan, creating a new market and events space on the main pedestrian route between the castle and train station. With twenty-eight commercial shipping container units, fifteen outdoor market stalls, seven bars and restaurants, and space for live outdoor music and events, Ffos Caerfilli is designed to thrive both day and night.
A small business incubator
The town is currently underserved in terms of restaurants and retail options, but being only a short hop from Cardiff, the market is designed to draw new life to help small businesses grow, in a destination locals can be proud of. A catalyst for change, by and for Caerphilly.
The small-scale units vary from 6m2 to 25m2 and cater to a range of food and beverage, fresh produce, and hard goods retailers.
Traders can fit out their containers as they please, and if they grow beyond capacity, can then move into larger spaces nearby as other startups step into their place.
The market uses a combination of vertical timber cladding, corten mesh, and a corrugated steel skin finish to present an exciting addition to Cardiff Road; Caerphilly’s high street.
The new market gives the town we love a fantastic opportunity for a fresh start. We’re really excited to join forces with so many other local businesses
Paul Livermore, Owner, Up Market Family Butchers
Reflecting the town’s rich heritage
‘Ffos’, the Welsh word for ‘moat’, connects the market to Caerphilly Castle, an amazing heritage asset that attracts significant visitors. Unfortunately, people often look around the castle and then leave, so the market hopes to encourage more people to wander into town and explore everything Caerphilly has to offer.
For those already at the market, a rear terrace offers beautiful views onto the castle grounds for a moment of tranquillity amid the hustle and bustle.
The views from our unit to the castle are incredible. Our kitchen was the only one allowed to open for home delivery meal kits during the lockdowns, and we’ve always felt so welcomed by the people in Caerphilly. The new market is the perfect opportunity to bring Bab Haus to the community that supported us so well.
Leyli Homayoonfar, Bab Haus
Aligning with the Welsh Future Generations Act
Over 350 residents gave in-person feedback on plans for the town, resulting in a market that provides a home for small businesses to grow, while contributing to a more vibrant, prosperous town.
Sustainability is built in from the outset, with the design achieving biodiversity net gain.
Photovoltaic panels, green roof systems, a green wall, EV charging, rain-gardens, rain planters and permeable paving all contribute to the market’s sustainable credentials and the resilience of the design.
Ffos Caerffili is supported by the European Regional Development Fund through the Welsh Government, and the UK Shared Prosperity Fund—a central pillar of the UK government’s Levelling Up agenda.