TRIBUTES TO DEVELOPER AND SPORTS BENEFACTOR
T HE man responsible for developing much of Cardiff’s skyline has died.
Tributes have been paid to property development giant John Smart after his death on Monday.
As founder and chairman of JR Smart Builders Ltd, the Cardiff Blues benefactor is the figure behind the ambitious Capital Quarter regeneration scheme.
As one the biggest office schemes ever built in Cardiff when completed it will see 10 acres of land developed for office, hotels and housing on Tyndall Street in Butetown.
Over the years the company has also been responsible for creating the Smart Bridge in the city centre as well as Shand House on Newport Road, Herbert Street student accommodation and The Wharf development in Cardiff Bay.
Hailed as one of the UK’s most ambitious speculative builders, Mr Smart created the company in 1973 with his wife, who died in 2005.
Within five years they had a labour force of more than 100 people after gaining large contracts with universities, banks and private developers.
From there the business continued to build momentum, before Mr Smart was joined by his sons Gareth and Alexander.
As well as a successful businessman, the father of two and grandfather of four will also be remembered for his contributions to sports in South Wales.
He has been described as a benefactor and board member of Cardiff RFC and Cardiff Blues “since the inception of professional rugby.”
Cardiff Blues chairman Peter Thomas said: “All of our thoughts and sincere condolences go to John’s family following this very sad news. John played for the Rags and became a substantial supporter and investor to Cardiff RFC and then Cardiff Blues.
“The contribution he made was a significant one. Not only was he a great rugby man but an entrepreneur in his own right and a devout family man.”
Hugh Morris, CEO of Glamorgan County Cricket Club, said: “We were shocked and saddened to learn of the sudden passing of John, who was a wonderful supporter of Glamorgan Cricket through our good times as well as some of our more challenging periods.
“He was always a popular figure at Sophia Gardens and it is a very sad day for the club as well as the business community of Cardiff. Our thoughts are with his wife Kathy and his family at this most difficult time.”
Mr Smart’s family would like to thank family and friends for their expressions of sympathy and everyone who had a “lifetime of friendship” with him.