News - Trial of extended opening hours at Bute Park

21st October 2011

The opening hours at Bute Park will be extended during a three month trial

The trial will run during October, November and December and will allow commuters to continue walking and cycling through the park until 7pm during the winter months.

The two entrances with extended hours are the gate at the Millennium Bridge, which links Sophia Gardens to Bute Park and the gate near the Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama. All other access gates will follow the normal closing times.

Stewards will be positioned at both gates for additional security and advice to users during the extended opening times.

A code of conduct, which is currently being trialed in Hailey Park, will also be extended to Bute Park with additional signage being installed along the route.

The Code of Conduct encourages a better sharing of space by requesting all users to keep left and pass right. The code also asks cyclists to cycle slowly and be heard by ringing their bells; and for dog walkers to keep their dogs under control.

It is also important that cyclists using the route during the trial have their front and rear bike lights switched on as they ride through the park to maximise visibility.
During the trial the Council will monitor the extended hours and will ask for feedback from those who have benefited from the extended hours.

Executive Member for Sport, Leisure and Culture, Cllr Nigel Howells, said: "Bute Park provides a fantastic tranquil setting for many walkers and cyclists in the city. During the summer months, when the park is open later I know many walkers and cyclists take advantage of travelling through the park. The Council has listened to park users who have asked if we could extend the opening hours of the park in the winter months.

"During the next three months we will be closely monitoring the trial to determine whether it is feasible and safe to make the extension permanent."

Executive Member for Traffic and Transportation, Cllr Lisa Ford, said: "As a sustainable travel city it is a priority for us to offer residents as many suitable forms of travelling around the city. I am delighted that the team at Bute Park are running this trial to establish whether the extension can be permanent."

The trial will run from October 3 2011 until December 31 2011 (However this is under continued health and safety review)
Gates with extended opening hours: Millennium Bridge and Fisher Bridge
Opening times of gates at Millennium Bridge and Fisher Bridge: 7.30am - 7pm
Opening times of all other gates: 7.30am - 30 mins before dusk