More money is being pumped in to one of Cardiff’s most historic buildings in the city centre
The Old Library on The Hayes (Image: Google Maps)
A £2m grant has been awarded to the Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama (RWCMD) to transform one of Cardiff’s historic buildings, the Old Library, into a lively new centre for education and the arts. Located in The Hayes in the middle of the city centre, the Old Library will be redeveloped into what has been described as a significant cultural and educational hub.
Phase one of the project will focus on creating a welcoming and inclusive entrance to encourage visitors to explore and engage with the building.
Plans include refurbishing the ground floor main entrance and foyer, alongside rebuilding the existing glass box entry. Never miss a Cardiff story by signing up to our daily newsletter here
New steps and pop-up stages will also be introduced, designed to host free concerts and community activities, making the space lively and accessible to the public.
The £2m grant has been awarded by the Foyle Foundation, an independent grant-making trust. In recognition of its generous support, the new facilities will be named the Foyle Steps, Foyle Foyer, and Foyle Stages.
Commenting on the new project, David Hall, chief executive of the Foyle Foundation, said: “In addition to our increased budget for our normal grant giving programmes in our final year of operation, the Foundation wished to make a range of special grants across the country which would be of national and regional importance and of long-term benefit to sector leaders.
“The legacy grant to the Royal Welsh College of Music & Drama brings Cardiff’s Old Library back into public use to provide much-needed additional facilities for the national conservatoire of Wales and creates a valuable community asset in the heart of Cardiff.”
Created in 2000, the Foyle Foundation supports schools and charities across the UK, particularly in the arts and education sectors.
By December 2025, the Foundation will have distributed approximately £185m in funding, including a number of legacy projects designed to have a lasting impact as part of its planned spend down and closure.
Planning permission has been approved
Planning permission for the Old Library’s redevelopment has been approved, with work set to begin at the end of October 2025 and completion expected by summer 2026.
Cardiff Council leader, Huw Thomas said: “The Old Library is an important part of Cardiff’s history and a significant landmark in the city centre. As a Council, we’re pleased to be working with the Royal Welsh College of Music & Drama to help open the page on its next chapter.
“Its transformation into a hub for creativity and the arts by one of our most prestigious cultural institutions, ensures it is protected and preserved for generations to come.”