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These pictures show the inside of the semi-derelict Coal Exchange – as campaigners begin their battle to bring it back to its former glory.

The Grade II-listed building is one of Cardiff and Wales’ most important coal-era landmarks, which has fallen into a state of decay and disrepair.

A not-for-profit group has now been set up with 28 members. Four directors have also now been appointed.

They first want to reopen the foyer area, hoping to use it as a space to show an exhibition about the history of the building

They then want to repair offices in the south end of the building to attract paying tenants, which will raise revenue and show it is a sustainable building.

Video: Inside the historic coal exchange in Cardiff

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They estimate 80% of the building is safe, but that the remaining 20% needs serious structural work.

The south east area of the building has suffered rain damage and has had a lack of maintenance for the last 15 years.

“We think that if the lights go out, it will only be a few weeks before someone breaks in and rips out the copper piping and from there, the building is basically finished. Our job is to keep the lights on and find the funding to start refurbishing the place,” said director Ian Hill.

He described the building as a “cathedral of the modern age”.

Historically, the hall is where the global price of coal was determined and in more recent years it was used as a music venue, where bands including The Stereophonics and The Manic Street Preachers played.

The previous owner, Macob, went into administration in March 2014 and the Coal Exchange was passed to the Crown Estate.

Resolving the ownership issue is another for the group to face.

Gallery: The Coal Exchange through history

A £50,000 structural survey has been planned but the Welsh School of Architecture have also been to the site to complete a laser scan of the building.

That will allow them to create 3D plans of the building.

Dr Oriel Prizeman led the team creating the scan of the main hall.

“In many ways, this room is the most important because it’s where all the activity happened,” said Dr Prizeman.

She said the scan will create a “perfect record” of the room and its detailed design.

“If the worst came to worst we have a complete record that we could navigate around and so that future generations could too.”

To find out more visit www.facebook.com/saveourcoalexchange .