Paddington Bear Statue in Cardiff Causes Upset Among Children
Questions have been raised about the iconic Paddington Bear statue’s location in Cardiff, leading to concerns over accessibility and suitability. The statue, part of a nationwide celebration for the upcoming film “Paddington in Peru,” has been attracting fans to various cities, including Cardiff.
Situated in St John’s Gardens near the St David’s shopping centre, the statue has left some children disappointed as the city centre gardens are frequently locked, preventing easy access to the beloved bear. This stands in contrast to other locations where the Paddington statues are readily accessible at all times.
One concerned citizen, Chloe Archer, recounted how she and her daughter, a dedicated Paddington fan, were left disheartened when they found the garden gates locked on two separate visits. Despite checking Google’s listed opening times, they were met with disappointment, with the park being inaccessible during the advertised hours.
Cardiff Council has clarified that the park is closed at 4 pm to deter anti-social behaviour and reopens at 10 am, albeit with variations. However, these restrictions have caused distress among children and their families who long to see Paddington Bear up close.
The predicament has spurred discussions between the council and FOR Cardiff regarding the possibility of relocating the statue to a more accessible site within Cardiff. The aim is to ensure that more families and fans can enjoy encountering Paddington Bear without the constraints of restricted access.
The incident has shed light on the importance of thoughtful planning and consideration when installing public art installations, especially those aimed at engaging with young audiences. As the Paddington statue tour is set to continue until November 2025, efforts are being made to address the concerns raised in Cardiff and ensure a more inclusive experience for all visitors.
The saga of the Paddington Bear statue in Cardiff serves as a reminder of the impact public art can have on communities, highlighting the need for careful curation and accessibility to foster positive engagement and cherished memories for all.