The Friends Group was set up in 2010 to support the maintenance and development of the park, which is a landmark amenity in Lisvane, providing pleasure for Cardiff people for generations.
Through lack of resources and plant disease Cefn Onn Parc has deteriorated significantly over the last 10 years and the Group believe that it is about time, supported by and working with the Council, that it is restored to some of its past historical, aesthetic, peaceful, and botanical glories!
We are an enthusiastic Friends Group and have already had a number of successful days volunteering in the Park such as clearing part of the lower pond area, refurbishing the benches in the lower section, and rediscovering lost pathways in the upper section. We are in the process of applying for various grants to fund future developments, are helping the Council develop their management plan for the Park, and are hoping to particularly enable the local communities of Lisvane, Thornhill, and Llanishen to become more aware of the park and its natural attractions.
Following a joint application from Cardiff Council and Friends of Parc Cefn Onn funding was secured for the Council to restore some of the footpaths which suffer from drainage problems in wet weather. £135,000 worth of funding was received from the Landfill Community Fund and a new pathway was laid and completed in 2011. This has dramatically improved the Park and access to it.
Anyone interested in what the Council and the Friends Group will be doing to improve Cefn Onn over the next couple of years and helping to make things happen are invited to join our small membership by emailing your contact details to the Group Secretary at friendsofcefnonn@talktalk.net.
Please visit our website Friends of Parc Cefn Onn for details of how you can get involved, working party dates, Cardiff Parks Department events etc. Anyone wishing to join us will be most welcome. Work will vary throughout the year and will include jobs for all ages, ability. Children must be supervised by an adult. Please wear suitable footwear and clothing. Gloves and equipment will be provided.
Two Ridgeway Walks are also scheduled – check out the details of these and other interesting events. The Guided Events and Walks brochure will shortly be available from libraries and on the website at www.cardiff.gov.uk
Children are encouraged to help but must have adult supervision.