Family fun at official opening of 'new' park
Following a massive restoration programme, one of Barry's
finest parks will be officially opened by Vale of Glamorgan Council
leader Cllr Gordon Kemp on Thursday, 18 September.
The programme at Victoria Park in Cadoxton has
been undertaken by the Vale council and funded by the Heritage
Lottery Fund (HLF) as part of their Public Parks Initiative.
As well as work on entrances, gates, steps,
boundary walls, trees, footpaths, seating and planted areas, the
project includes a fantastic new play area and multi-sports arena
for the younger and more active visitors and an exact replica of an
original bandstand which is now hosting music and dance events. The
park is also home to the Cadoxton Bowling Club, and the public
green is available for non-members during the summer months.
The park also provides tremendous views over
the rest of Barry, the docks, and across the channel to Weston and
the Somerset coast.
Cllr Kemp said: "Following this marvellous
restoration programme, the public will be able to use and enjoy
this important space within the town of Barry for many years to
come."
Jennifer Stewart, head of HLF (Wales), said:
"The UK's traditional designed parks and gardens have such an
important role as havens from the bustle of daily life, and we are
thrilled to have helped restore and open up Victoria Park for as
many people as possible to enjoy."
Although the park has been open and used
regularly for over a year, it has only now been completely handed
over to the council's parks department. Responsible for its future
upkeep and keen to promote it as a resource for the community of
Cadoxton and Barry, the council has engaged a small, dedicated team
to work full time on the project.
Members of the public are invited to attend
the official opening at 2.30pm on 18 September and an open weekend
(20 and 21 September) when there will be fun things for all the
family including a circus workshop, traditional Punch and Judy
show, face painting and stilt walkers. Music in the bandstand will
be provided by the Victoriana Jazz Band and Vibe.
For details of forthcoming events, please watch the local press,
look out for the posters in the area and on park notice boards,
check the Vale council website or give park managerJon Greatrex a
call on 07809 551465.