A new community sport and games facility designed with the help of local children has been officially opened at Hailey Park by Jamie Roberts.
The former Wales and British & Irish Lions star is one of many sportspeople with connections to the local area whose names are celebrated as part of the multi-use space.
The new facility replaces the park's former games area and provides a modern, inclusive space for a wide range of activities including football, rugby, hockey, cricket, basketball, volleyball, netball and calisthenics. It also features a dedicated social “catch-up” area with seating and table tennis.
Funded through the UK Government's Shared Prosperity Fund as part of Cardiff Council's Neighbourhood Renewal Scheme, the facility was developed following consultation with more than 180 local schoolchildren, whose ideas helped shape the final design.
Other notable local sportspeople celebrated at the new facility include:
- Gold-medal winning Paralympian, Tanni Grey-Thompson
- Real Madrid and Wales football legend, Gareth Bale
- Welsh rugby international, Mike Rayer
- Olympic gold medallist and Tour de France winner, Geraint Thomas
- Double world title winning 110m hurdler, Colin Jackson
- Great Britain Rugby International, Megan Jones
- Double Commonwealth gold medal winning indoor and lawn bowler, Dan Salmon
- Rugby 7s World Cup medallist, Tom Isaacs
Cardiff Council Cabinet Member for Housing and Communities, Cllr Lee Bridgeman, said:
“It's great to see this facility officially open and already being enjoyed by local young people. What's particularly special is that local children played such a central role in shaping the design. Their ideas helped create a space that is inclusive, welcoming and offers opportunities for a wide range of sports and activities.
“Our Neighbourhood Renewal Scheme programme is a vital part of our vision for a Stronger, Fairer, Greener Cardiff and our commitment to building more vibrant communities across Cardiff. Proposed by local ward members, they reflect the priorities of local residents and deliver real improvements to public spaces.”
Cabinet Member for Culture, Leisure and Tourism, Cllr Jennifer Burke, said:
“This project has transformed what Hailey Park offers local families and young people, creating a safe, accessible space where people can be active, socialise and enjoy being outdoors. It's a really positive outcome and a great example of how involving local communities can help deliver facilities that truly meet their needs and an even more child friendly Cardiff.”
