Splash pad, park run and book among park plans
EXCITING plans for Aberdare Park include a new splash pad, park run and a book about the beauty spot’s past as its 150th anniversary nears.
The plans have been announced by Friends of Aberdare Park who have been working for almost two years to improve the area, and even hope they can arrange a royal visit to the town to celebrate the milestone.
Philip Rees, who is chairman of the group, said: “We have seen a vast improvement in making our park a beautiful place to visit and the positive actions of the council has been fantastic.
“We have been doing a lot of things – both big and small.”
Park run is the name given to a collection of 5km running events that take place every Saturday morning across 18 countries.
Philip said: “We want to emulate the success of Pontypridd park run, which I attended recently and there were 400 people running on a Saturday morning.
“We are hoping to begin in April.”
The park has also seen the Eisteddfod gate be renovated and the Raglan Memorial cleaned up and painted, with help from Rhondda Cynon Taf Council.
With 2019 being the 150th anniversary, the group said it is close to publishing a book on the History of Aberdare Park, and there is potential to train guides to show visitors around its historic sites and views.
He said: “The plan for next year is to get the town buzzing with Victorian vibes and get the influence of our wonderful park out there.
“If you come here now, it’s absolutely fantastic.”
The plans also include a splash pad, which it is now hoped will be finished by next summer.
Philip added: “The demand for that has been quite overwhelming for some years.
“We have also developed disabled toilets there, so it can be used easily by all.
“The nearby pool building will be renovated to provide toilets for the disabled and baby-changing facilities.
“The splash pad will cater for families with babies, and children of all abilities.”
Philip also hinted at hopes for some sort of royal visit for the anniversary.
He said: “These are very exciting times and everybody who comes to the park is very impressed, and we are very keen to keep things moving.”
See Friends of Aberdare Park Facebook page for more information