The Salvation Army in Canton relocates for major refit

The Salvation Army in Canton in Cardiff is temporarily relocating while its church undergoes a major refurbishment to create a more accessible, modern and community‑focused building. 
The final Sunday worship at the current hall at 429 Cowbridge Road East will be held on 20 September with the work aiming for completion by late 2027.
During the works, weekday activities will move nearby to the Wesley Methodist Church also on Cowbridge Road East, while Sunday worship will take place at Cantonian High School on Fairwater Road.

Lieutenant Colonel Jonathan Roberts is the leader of The Salvation Army in Wales and also attends the church at Canton. He said:
“This is designed to make the building more accessible and welcoming to better serve the people of Canton in the years ahead. While the building work is going on I'm grateful that Wesley Methodist Church in Canton and Cantonian High School will make their premises available, ensuring that our activities continue uninterrupted.” 

The refurbishment will completely remodel the interior of the building, creating a new upstairs worship space and a ground‑floor community hub. Plans include exploring a weekday coffee shop, safe‑space hub, facilities for The Salvation Army’s Employment Plus team and chaplaincy work as well as expanded partnerships with local organisations. The redevelopment expected to take 12–15 months.

Captains Clare and Jamie Jones have recently been appointed to lead the church in Canton. Captain Jamie said the congregation has been fully involved in the planning:

“We’re extremely excited. This redevelopment gives us a chance to re‑imagine what The Salvation Army in Canton can be. Not just the building, but the mission. The congregation is outward‑looking, committed to breaking down barriers and serving the community. The building is simply the vehicle that will help us do that even better.

“Now arrangements have been confirmed, there’s real confidence. No one will be left out. We’re already planning transport support for those who need it. I think it provides a great opportunity for a new and reinvigorated Canton.”

One of the lay leaders at Canton is Corps Sergeant Major Lyndon Kervin. He added:
“People’s emotions are tied up in buildings, and change can be difficult. But we’ve shared every stage openly with drawings, plans, updates and encouraged questions. The congregation knows the direction of travel, and now that the new Sunday venue has been confirmed, people can see the path ahead clearly. We are most grateful to the church and school authorities at Wesley Methodist and Cantonian High for generously agreeing to host us.”

Activities at the Wesley Methodist Church in Canton will include:

• Monday 11:00am - 1:45pm. A meet up drop-in session in a warm welcome space.
• Monday 1:45pm. CAMEO Ladies Meeting to meet up and chat.
• Wednesday 11:00 am - 2.00 pm. A Walk-in Session in a warm welcome space, with refreshments including coffee and tea as well as a Digital Skills Group.

And at Cantonian High School:

• Sunday 930am. Young People's Activities including Primary ages 3-6 and Jesus Crew ages 7-12.
• Sunday 10:30am - Worship