Council condemns threats made to staff as use of parking site increases

Ted Peskett, local democracy reporter

A council has condemned threats made to members of staff as one of its car parks faces increased demand from drivers.

The Ice Arena Wales car park off Empire Way in Grangetown has seen an increase in demand since the Fun HQ attraction was opened last year.

Some drivers have resorted to parking on kerbs in the car park, on grass verges and two cars were pictured on a walkway next to the ice arena.

Pictures of the site taken this week also show tyre marks on the grass banks bordering the car park.

Additional parking

A Cardiff Council spokesperson said: “The council accepts that the new climbing facility at Ice Arena Wales has increased the number of people parking at the International Pool’s car park, but plans are under way to work with a private developer to provide additional parking near Ice Arena Wales, as part of their development.

“When there is a major event at the Sport Village, such as an ice hockey game or a swimming gala, the council does provide event parking at the former Toys R Us car park, which is managed by council staff.

“When staff are working during these events, the parking is managed effectively to ensure that those that want to use the gym or go swimming at the pool can park their vehicle at the International Pool’s car park, while the event takes place.

“Recently council staff have received threats from visitors attending ice hockey games which will not be tolerated.

“All reported incidents will be sent through to South Wales Police.

“The car parking arrangements in this area will be determined through the next phase of the development of the Sports Village and we ask visitors to park responsibly when they visit, so they do not inconvenience others.”

Leisure attraction

Early last year, the council decided to move ahead with plans to convert one of the ice pads in the ice arena into a family leisure attraction.

Fun HQ, which consists of a clip and climb attraction, soft play areas and slides, opened in September 2023.

Cardiff Council ward members for Grangetown have been working with council officers to improve the situation with parking there and are disappointed that the problem is continuing.

Cllr Ash Lister, speaking on behalf of fellow ward councillors, Cllr Sara Robinson and Cllr Lynda Thorne, said: “The parking in and around the International Sports Village often shows disregard for both the residents there, and the environment, with drivers choosing to park dangerously and causing damage to the local area.

“We have been working with officers to improve the situation – having lines repainted, physical improvements such as trees considered and more regular patrols in the area – so it is disappointing that the issues are continuing.

“Council Officers are also working directly with the facilities to manage and mitigate parking issues in the area, particularly when there are events on.

“With the area awaiting further development, we will continue to work with residents, officers and developers to seek permanent improvements to the area for the benefit of both residents and visitors to the ISV.

“We would encourage residents to report regular parking issues directly to the council, so patrols can be planned by officers to deal with issues.”

You can report a parking problem to the council at https://www.cardiff.gov.uk/ENG/resident/Parking-roads-and-travel/Report-a-parking-problem/Pages/default.aspx