Mixed views over splash pad’s impact

PROBLEM parking and litter have been targeted in a crackdown after complaints from Victoria Park residents following the opening of its splash pad this summer.

The splash pad – which controversially replaced the Canton park’s paddling pool – has been an enormous success since it opened, attracting hundreds of families every day during the summer holidays.

But some residents have complained of an increase in litter as well as traffic and parking problems in the streets surrounding the park.

In response, Victoria Park Matters has been formed by neighbours to raise concerns about traffic, parking and litter.

But Canton ward councillors have hit back, claiming the park has never been cleaner – or busier – after going out on patrol with South Wales Police.

Officers from Canton’s neighbourhood policing team issued more than 20 tickets, a Section 59 warning to an inconsiderate driver and confiscated a blue badge that was being used illegally. Officers returned yesterday for further checks.

Councillor Ramesh Patel said staff at the splash pad carry out litter picks. He said a cleansing team now visits in the afternoon or early evening to collect litter, change bins and remove full bags.

A team also visits in the morning to ready the park, he said.

Coun Patel, and ward colleague Susan Elsmore, said: “At a time when local authority budgets are being squeezed so hard, it’s wonderful to see the Victoria Park splash pad bringing such huge enjoyment to our children and families.”

They said that despite opposition, the park is “new, state-of- the-art facility that is free of charge, exactly what local children asked for”.

They also have the support of Ida Cardinale, who runs the ice cream stand in the park. She said: “I’ve been running the Victoria Park cafe for over 50 years and in all that time I’ve never seen the park so clean, and litter-free.

“The new splash pad is a huge success. So many people have told me how wonderful they think the new facilities are, and the pleasure it’s bringing to children and families is obvious for all to see.”