Cardiff Council has begun the ground investigation works to Roath Park Dam to make sure one of Cardiff’s most loved parks can be enjoyed safely now and for future generations.
Following a regular inspection (under the Reservoirs Act 1975), it was found that the spillway, which is the waterfall beside the café, would not be large enough to withstand a theoretical extreme flooding event and improvement works are now required.
Cardiff Council has appointed engineering consultant Arup to undertake a detailed study to identify the best options for ensuring the future effectiveness of the dam. Listed Building Consent has recently been received for the ground investigation works to the dam.
The ground investigation taking place over the next two to three weeks will require certain areas of the park to close in order to carry out the works safely. The promenade across the dam will be shut during this time, access to the other side of the park can be gained north and south of the promenade.
Other areas in the park will be closed for shorter periods of time, including the play area which will be closed for two days, Tuesday 16 to Thursday 18 November, while work is completed.
The ground investigation works will involve holes of different size and shape dug in the dam and alongside the spillway so that the make-up of the ground can be studied.
Some holes will be dug by hand and others by specialist machinery. At the end of the works, the holes will be levelled out and the surface made to look as it is now.
Councillor Michael Michael, Cabinet Member for Clean Streets, Recycling and Environment said,”These short closures are vital for the first phase of investigations to go ahead. The project as a whole will ensure the future effectiveness of the dam so the park can continue to be enjoyed safely as the impacts of climate change become increasingly obvious.
“We are committed to working with the local community to ensure everyone understands the work involved. As the project progresses, further community information events will be held so residents, businesses, and other stakeholders remain informed and updated about the project.”
