St David’s Hall workers told jobs are safe as city centre venue remains closed until New Year

St David's Hall 190923

Staff at St David’s Hall in Cardiff have been told there will be no immediate job losses despite news the venue will not open its doors again until the New Year, says trade union UNISON.

The city centre hall has played host to stars including Sir Tom Jones and Elton John but closed earlier this year after the discovery of Reinforced Autoclaved Aerated Concrete otherwise known as RAAC in the building.

Cardiff council is now considering an independent report into the safety implications of RAAC in the venue.

UNISON, which represents staff including some who have worked at St David’s Hall for more than 30 years, attended a meeting with the local authority this morning (Friday) where bosses confirmed the venue would remain closed until 2024.

The union was told there would be no immediate job losses as a result of the ongoing investigations into the presence of RAAC in the building.

UNISON understands Cardiff Council’s cabinet will consider all options and hope to make a decision on the future of the hall by the end of October.

UNISON Cardiff branch secretary Emma Garson said: “Our priority is the health and safety of the staff we represent.

“Some of employees have worked at St David’s Hall since the 1990s, so we welcome continued consultation with trade unions and staff regarding the future of the venue that they are so passionate about.

“Cardiff Council has promised to keep staff informed throughout.

“It’s vital that staff have job security and are able to work in a safe and healthy environment.”