It was built in 1951 for the Festival of Britain and was the boxing and wrestling venue for the 1958 British Empire and Commonwealth Games.

[2][1] Due to government restrictions on building materials during the post-war period, the framework of the building was adapted from a surplus aircraft hangar from RAF Stormy Down near Bridgend.

[3] Just one month before the collapse, Cardiff Council had approved an extensive improvement programme, which would have cost approximately £100,000.

[1] The pavilion was used for the boxing and wrestling competitions of the 1958 British Empire and Commonwealth Games.

[4] Many notable performers played at the pavilion, including Danny Kaye, Cliff Richard, Jimi Hendrix, Pink Floyd and Slade.