Teenager's campaign achieves revamp of North Cardiff park
- Lynne Schofield
- 33 minutes ago
- 1 min read
In December 2024, a 13-year-old north Cardiff resident started a petition to upgrade the playground in Whitchurch Library Gardens.
Aaryanna Smith asked for the facilities to be repaired and improved after noticing the playground had deteriorated and some equipment was damaged or missing.
Her petition stated "a refreshed playground would not only provide a safe and engaging space for children to play but would also serve as a welcoming hub for the whole community to come together". The petition gathered 741 signatures and led to Aaryanna meeting city councillor Kate Carr to discuss next steps.
Following Aaryanna's ongoing input in the design of the new playground to ensure young people's voices were taken into account, it has now opened, just over a year later.
New facilities include a colourful and challenging climbing frame, a ground-level accessible roundabout and newly refurbished benches.
At the official opening ceremony, attended by Jen Burke, Cardiff Council's cabinet member for parks, and local Councillors Kate Carr, Marc Palmer and Jackie Jones, Aaryanna cut the ribbon to declare the playground officially open.
Kate Carr said: "We are delighted to have worked with Aaryanna and others to deliver improvements to the playground for older children, including the accessible roundabout.
"We are grateful to the cabinet member, Jen Burke, and her officers for making this happen. Aaryanna delivered an excellent campaign, including coming to speak to the full council.
"We are also grateful to the volunteers of Awen who work tirelessly to ensure the gardens are a well tended and attractive environment".