Plans to transform part of a historic Cardiff building into an indoor activity centre have been revealed. The former HSBC Bank building on the corner of Bute Street and James Street in Butetown has largely been converted into luxury apartments but could also become home to an airsoft shooting range if proposals submitted to Cardiff council are approved.
Hot Shots Airsoft Ltd have put forward plans to transform the ground floor and basement of the Grade II-listed Victorian building into an entertainment venue featuring airsoft games, foam-tipped archery, softball, and rubber axe throwing. The basement would also house an interactive gaming experience. The company, which already has a venue in High Street, will partner with its sister company Escape Rooms Cardiff to create the new site which it hopes will bring it in line with other alternative entertainment ventures that have arrived in the city in recent years including Boom Battle Bar and 'social darts' venue Flight Club.
If the proposals are approved the ground floor and basement of the building, amounting to more than 7,200 square feet, will be divided into three activity areas, each available to hire out for parties and other events for groups of two to 28 playing guests, suitable for families and players of all ages. A seated area for 44 people to eat, drink, and spectate is also included in the plans.
