A much-loved play area in Rumney, known to generations of local residents as “the Quarry”, has officially reopened following a major refurbishment that includes what is believed to be Cardiff’s longest slide.
Catherine Gardens play area has undergone a significant transformation, providing local children and families with a range of new attractions while retaining its reputation as one of the area’s most popular outdoor play spaces.
For decades, the site has been a favourite destination for local youngsters, many of whom will remember racing down the large hillside slides that made the “Quarry” a landmark play area in east Cardiff.
The newly refurbished site now features a medieval-themed play area complete with new swings, a springer, a castle-themed multi-play unit, a dragon slide and a climbing kart. The centrepiece of the redevelopment is the city’s longest slide, which stretches down the hillside and offers panoramic views across the park.
The project has also included upgraded steps, handrails and safety surfacing, alongside improvements to the seating area to create a more welcoming and accessible space for visitors.
The refurbished play area was officially reopened by Cardiff Council’s Cabinet Member for Culture, Leisure and Tourism, Cllr Jennifer Burke.
She said: “High quality outdoor play facilities, close to home and free to use, are really important for families, and we’re pleased to see the refurbished Catherine Gardens play area now open and ready to be enjoyed.
“This investment is part of our ongoing work to improve play spaces across Cardiff, helping to create healthy, active communities and giving children safe, imaginative places to play.”
The reopening marks the latest investment in Cardiff’s network of parks and play facilities, with the council continuing work to upgrade outdoor spaces across the city.
The new-look Catherine Gardens is expected to prove popular with both a new generation of children and adults who fondly remember spending their childhoods at the Quarry, particularly the thrill of tackling its famous hillside slides.
With its new medieval theme and record-breaking slide, the play area is set to remain a favourite destination for families in Rumney for years to come.
