Parents in Cardiff are pleading for a children’s park closed off for over four years in Ely to be reopened. The small park, located at Mill Road Recreation Ground, has been left abandoned since 2020, with its facilities falling into disrepair and nature reclaiming the space. The park is currently locked and fenced off, with only remnants of a swing set and play equipment left as a reminder of its previous use by young children.
Local parent Liam Calway, who played in the park as a child, expressed frustration at its closure. He has four children aged between 4 and 10 and is part of the Fair Play for Ely campaign advocating for the park’s reopening. Liam highlights the need for age-appropriate equipment to stimulate younger children and laments having to travel long distances to other parks due to the closure of this local facility.
Cardiff Council mentions that the play equipment was removed due to vandalism and cites issues with anti-social behaviour and illegal drug activity linked to the park. Despite efforts to address these problems, parents like Liam believe that providing proper facilities for young people can help combat anti-social behaviour by giving them a safe place to socialise and play.
Council plans to potentially remove damaged equipment and unsafe flooring in the park pending grant funding, with equipment replacement depending on successful fundraising. Parents involved in the Fair Play for Ely campaign are determined to see the park reopened with new equipment to provide a stimulating environment for children to play and be creative.
Local councillor Neil McEvoy emphasises the importance of addressing inequalities in Cardiff and improving facilities for working-class communities like Ely to create a more child-friendly city. The plea from parents and community members continues to push for the restoration of the park as a vital space for children in the neighborhood. Ely’s local councillors have been approached for comment on the situation.