Julia Sas - PhD Thesis - corrected

Transcription

Bute Park Restoration Project
Public Consultation
December 2011
The County Council of the City and County of Cardiff.
Prepared by Cardiff Research Centre.
“Delivering effective research and consultation and first class
research and information services”
Cardiff Research Centre is part of Cardiff Council’s Research and Community Engagement
Unit and delivers key research, information and multimedia services for Cardiff Council and
other key organisations in Cardiff and Wales.
Core services include:
 Collection, analysis and interpretation of primary survey data.
 Analysis and interpretation of a wide range of secondary demographic and
socio-economic statistical data including the Census and in-depth economic
impact assessments.
 Specialised studies on a wide range of topics including landuse planning &
development, social, economic and demographic subjects.
 Quantitative and qualitative research and consultation projects.
 The Cardiff Citizens’ Panel.
 Focus Group and meeting facilitation.
 Advice and support on all aspects of research and consultation.
 GIS mapping services
 Professional multimedia support in relation to presentations, conferences,
meetings, graphic design services and internet development.
For further information please contact
Steve Jarman
Operational Manager
Research & Community Engagement
Cardiff Council
 029 2087 2602
 s.jarman@cardiff.gov.uk
Bute Park Restoration Project - Public Consultation December 2012
CONTENTS
Background
1
Methodology
2
Response
2
Fieldwork
3
Reporting
4
Results
5
Section 1: Park Usage
5
Section 2: Signage
8
Section 3: Services in Bute Park
12
Section 4: Awareness of the Restoration Project
13
Section 5: The Education Centre
16
Section 6: Bute Park Identity
19
Section 7: West Lodge
21
Section 8: Access
23
Section 9: Blackfriars Friary
26
Section 10: The Out of the Woods Festival
29
Section 11: Best and Worst
31
Section 12: Social Media
38
Section 13: About You
40
Appendices
Produced by Customer & Business Knowledge
Bute Park Restoration Project
Public Consultation December 2012
Background
Bute Park is generally considered as one of the jewels in Cardiff's crown. It is
unique and filled with internationally recognised historic, horticultural and
environmental features. Cardiff Council is keen to ensure that the experience
for park users continues to improve and that the area remains accessible and
relevant to all. The Council’s aim is to deliver a national people's heritage park
for the Capital City - a flagship for Wales and the UK.
To aid this objective Bute Park is currently undergoing a £5.6 million
restoration project, supported by a £3.1 million grant from the Heritage Lottery
Fund. The Bute Park Restoration Project aims to maximise public access to
and enjoyment of Bute Park through restoring and conserving its features of
special historical, environmental and horticultural interest, introducing
sustainable management and maintenance regimes and extending access to
the park’s heritage by developing learning and recreational opportunities for
the widest possible audience. Work is expected within the park until 2013/14.
To ensure that the ongoing work that is undertaken meets the requirements
and priorities of park users, it is essential that the Council continues to hear
their views and experiences.
To enable the fulfilment of this goal the Customer & Business Knowledge
team has worked with officers in the Parks and Sports Service to develop a
rolling programme of consultation throughout the restoration period. This
report details the information gathered during the most recent period of
consultation during winter 2011.
1
Methodology
Customer & Business Knowledge along with officers in Parks and Sports
Service devised a schedule of research including bi-annular public
consultation throughout the redevelopment period. The first period of
consultation was carried out in November and December 2010 whilst the
latest was undertaken during December 2011. This pattern of consultation
during both the winter and summer months will be repeated until final
reporting in May 2013. The methodology has been designed to include a
mixture of face to face interviews with park users and electronic surveys
which are distributed via social network sites including Facebook and Twitter.
During November and December 2011 the questionnaire was deployed via
the following means:
•
100 face to face interviews completed with visitors to Bute Park
•
Electronic questionnaires distributed to 985 members of the Cardiff
Citizens Panel (1st Dec)
•
Link to the questionnaire posted on www.cardiff.gov.uk
•
Tweeted via the Cardiff Council twitter feed to its approximate 7400
followers
•
Distributed via Your Inbox to approximately 6000 Council staff
•
Distributed via email to Castle Key holders
•
Distributed by colleagues in Transport Services to a variety of
organisations involved in the city’s travel plan and bicycle user groups
•
Information and link sent to Park-Run for distribution to its members
Response
In addition to the 100 interviews completed face to face a total of 547
questionnaires were also completed online making a total of 647 responses.
2
In terms of statistical significance this number achieves a 95% confidence
level with a confidence interval of +/- 3.85%1. The margin of error is slightly
higher when isolating just one group with the data sets. When looking solely
at the results from online surveys a 95% confidence level is achieved with an
interval of +/-4.19.
Fieldwork
The fieldwork team was lead by dedicated research officers from within the
Cardiff Research Centre. All interviewers were provided with a formal
briefing/training session prior to the commencement of any fieldwork. Topics
covered in this session included interviewer health & safety as well as
background information relating to Bute Park and the Restoration Project.
Specific issues covered included:
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
The new Education Centre
Bute Park & Arboretum Logo
History of Blackfriars Friary
Bute Park Friends Group
Access to the park
The current situation regarding the toilet facilities at the Summerhouse
Kiosk
Details of the plans for the development of West Lodge
Information on the Out of the Woods Festival
Information regarding further involvement/joining the friends group
Details on how the public can share their photographs of Bute Park
In addition to the formal briefing, fieldworkers were also provided with crib
sheets for reference that could be used in the field (see Appendix 1).
Face to face interviews were collected between the hours of 9am and 5pm
and covered both weekdays and weekends. In instances where severe
rain/poor weather conditions were encountered the fieldwork was rescheduled
although many of the interviews were completed during showers and cold
temperatures.
A copy of the questionnaire is included in Appendix 2.
1
If, for example, you had a confidence interval (also called margin of error) of 4 and 47% percent of the sample
picks an answer you can be "sure" that if you had asked the same question of the entire relevant population
between 43% (47-4) and 51% (47+4) would also have picked that answer.
3
Reporting
Within some sections of the questionnaire respondents were asked to rate a
series of statements that relate to Bute Park on a scale of one to five with one
being “poor” and five being “excellent”.
For the purpose of analysis and reporting these ratings have been adapted to
produce a score which provides an indication to the level of success that is
prevalent in relation to each service function. The scoring classification that is
used within this report is shown below:
Scale Classification
4.25 – 5.00 This is an excellent score – retain status quo
3.75 – 4.24 This is a very good score – with some limited room for further
improvement
3.25 – 3.74 This is a good score – but a clear plan for improvement is needed
3.00 – 3.24 This is a fair score – there is considerable room for improvement
2.75 – 2.99 This is a poor score – a high degree of dissatisfaction exists
1.00 – 2.74 This is a very poor score – urgent attention is needed
In addition a traffic light system has been adopted to highlight areas of good
practice and indicate where future work needs to be focused.
4
Results
Section 1: Park Usage
1.1 On average how frequently do you use Bute Park?
A total of 643 responses were received equating to a response rate of 99.4%.
Approximately a third (34.0%) of respondents reported visiting Bute Park once
a week or more. Amongst those interviews completed face to face this
proportion rose to 41.4%.
On average how frequently do you use Bute Park?
(Base: 643)
30
24.7
25
21.3
20.5
Percentage
20
16.3
15
10.1
10
5
3.1
2.6
1.2
0
More than once
a day
Daily
More than once a day
Daily
More than once a week
More than once a month
Less than once a month
Very occasionally
Never
First time visitor
Total
More than once More than once Less than once
a w eek
a month
a month
All Respondents
No.
%
2.6
17
10.1
65
21.3
137
24.7
159
16.3
105
20.5
132
3.1
20
1.2
8
643
100.0
Very
occasionally
Never
Online
No.
14
48
116
139
94
114
19
NA
544
%
2.6
8.8
21.3
25.6
17.3
21.0
3.5
NA
100.0
First time visitor
(F2F only)
Face to Face
No.
%
3.0
3
17.2
17
21.2
21
20.2
20
11.1
11
18.2
18
1.0
1
8.1
8
99
100.0
5
1.2 How do you usually visit Bute Park?
Almost half (48.2%) of all respondents reported to visit Bute Park alone, whilst
44.8% visited with their partner and 29.4% with friends.
How do you usually visit Bute Park?
(Base: 647)
Alone
Comment [JCS1]: Section 1 –
It is notable that adults
accompanied by children
(families) are an under represented
group in the park. It will be
interesting to see how this
increases in summer 2012, and is
something we hope to see increase
as a result of the Education Centre,
introduction of natural play
opportunities and additional
recreational opportunities, e.g.
trails.
48.2
With partner
44.8
With friends
29.4
With children aged 5-10 years
9.1
8.5
With children under 5 years
7.0
With children aged over 10 years
With elderly friends or relatives
4.9
Other
5.1
0
10
20
30
40
50
60
Percentage
Alone
With partner
With friends
With children aged 5-10 yrs
With children under 5 yrs
With children aged over 10 yrs
Other
All Respondents
No.
%
48.2
312
44.8
290
29.4
190
9.1
59
8.5
55
7.0
45
5.1
33
4.9
32
Online
No.
264
260
170
55
45
43
29
29
%
48.3
47.5
31.1
10.1
8.2
7.9
5.3
5.3
Face to Face
No.
%
48.0
48
30.0
30
20.0
20
4.0
4
10.0
10
2.0
2
4.0
4
3.0
3
1.3 What are your reasons for visiting Bute Park?
The most frequent reason given by respondents for visiting Bute Park was for
walking (61.8%) followed by to sit and relax (38.9%) and exercise and sport
(36.6%).
6
Comment [JCS2]: The park is
clearly a valued natural space in
the heart of the city, where people
come to enjoy various outdoor
pursuits and it is essential these
primary uses are protected for park
users.
What are your reasons for visiting Bute Park?
(Base: 647)
61.8
Walking
38.9
Sit and relax
36.6
Exercise/sport
30.9
Short cut
Cycling
30.1
26.4
Picnic/lunch break
Horticulture/arboriculture interest
17.8
15.1
Dog w alking
Photography
14.2
Nature/bird w atching
13.9
13.1
Meeting place
Children's play
13.0
Fun run/marathon
12.7
Concert/event
12.4
10.2
Firew ork display
Formal team sports i.e. football/rugby/cricket
2.9
1.1
Educational visit
Other
4.9
0
10
20
30
40
50
60
70
Percentage
7
Section 2: Signage
2.1 Visitors to Bute Park use the paths for a variety of different things
i.e. cycling, dog walking, walking, jogging etc. How respectful do you
feel visitors are of one another?
A quarter (24.9%) of all respondents to the consultation considered the parks
users to be ‘very respectful’ of one another. Amongst those respondents
interviewed face to face this proportion rose to 49.5%.
How respectful do you feel visitors are of one another?
All Respondents (Base: 618)
24.9
Online (Base: 523)
67.8
20.5
71.3
Face to Face (Base: 95)
49.5
0%
7.0
20%
Very respectful
7.8
48.4
40%
Mostly respectful
60%
Somew hat disrespectful
2.1
80%
100%
Very disrespectful
A total of 154 respondents provided additional comments regarding respect
amongst park users. A selection of their comments is provided below:
Topic
No.
Disrespectful
behaviour from
cyclists
56
Disrespectful
behaviour from dog
owners
32
Comments
• Cyclists should be encouraged to warn pedestrians of their approach from
behind by use of their bell.
• Cyclists aren't always respectful to walkers - they seem to be under the
assumption the pathways are there for their use only and they should have
right of way
• Some cyclists speed through the park without care and attention of others
• Bicycle bells, and use of same should be compulsory!!
• Cyclists are least respectful, they seem to think they own the paths
• Speedy cyclists often whizz by people without ringing their bells as a warning
of approach.
• Dog walkers do not keep their dogs under control, and dogs are a hazard to
other users.
• Dogs can sometimes cause a nuisance
• Dogs are often off their leads when signs are up asking them to remain
leashed. This is mainly prevalent by the Summerhouse cafe and can be
frustrating.
8
Comment [JCS3]: Notable
that cyclists have been singled out
as the most disrespectful users.
Project team, Friends Group and
cycling representatives will
consider how this can be
addressed.
Comment [JCS4]: Anticipated
a code of conduct will also address
dog control.
No problems
encountered
22
Need for dedicated
cycle paths
16
Introduction of
notices/signs
10
Vehicles
8
Litter
6
Keep left
6
Miscellaneous
24
• Dog walkers constantly let their dogs off leads and these run at children and
adults walking /cycling through the park
• Owners don't clean up their dog mess, has happened on a few occasions.
• We have never encountered any problems with other visitors
• I have neither had, nor seen any problems between users.
• Haven't noticed anyone being disrespectful
• Generally there is a good atmosphere in the area.
• Dedicated cycling paths would be helpful
• Splitting the path into cyclists and pedestrians might be helpful.
• Bad mannered and ignorant cyclists are a risk to pedestrians and the 2 need
to be separated
• Maybe paint a line/figures on the path to indicate which side walker and
cyclists should be on?
• Some discreet signs to remind users to show due consideration would be
helpful
• As the paths are shared and well used the council should mark the routes as
'keep left' and 'slow'.
• I have not seen any specific signs stating that cycling is allowed/not allowed
in the park.
• There are way too many vehicles using the paths - driving too fast and
hogging the paths
• Pedestrians, cyclists and joggers are mostly fine. However, the trucks vans
and private cars that drive along the paths at high speed are entirely
disrespectful - even those who belong to the council.
• There are so many more motor vehicles now than at any time. They NEVER
keep to 5mph or even 10mph. I have constantly to leap out of the way of
motor vehicles.
• I feel more people need to be more respectful about disposing of their
personal rubbish.
• Notices could be positioned at the entrances reminding people to respect the
environment and to take litter home with them
• 'Walk, run or cycle ON THE LEFT' signs might help
• Walkers do not stick to the correct side of the path.
• The students on Wednesday afternoons act like they own the place only
moving out of the way when forced to, usually I have to leave the path and
end up on the muddy verge.
• Have experienced verbal abuse from "yobs" on more occasions than I can
remember, particularly in summertime.
2.2 The picture below shows an advisory sign which is being considered
for the park. How well do you think the sign conveys the message of
mutual respect and personal responsibility?
9
Comment [JCS5]: Pleasing to
see.
Comment [JCS6]: NOTE - An
alternative cycle route will be
introduced behind the herbaceous
boarder.
Comment [JCS7]: NOTE not a
large spontaneous call for signage
here.
Comment [JCS8]: Pleasingly
low.
Four in every five respondents (80.1%) felt that the sign conveys the message
of mutual respect and personal responsibility either ‘very’ or ‘quite well’.
Amongst those respondents that were interviewed face to face the proportion
considering the sign to convey its message ‘very well’ rose to 43.9%.
How well do you think the sign conveys the message of mutual
respect and personal responsibility?
26.1
Online (Base: 534)
54.0
22.8
13.1
55.2
14.2
43.9
0%
10%
20%
7.7
46.9
30%
Very w ell
40%
50%
Quite w ell
6.8
60%
Not w ell
70%
7.1 2.0
80%
90%
100%
Not w ell at all
2.3 Would you like to see this sign installed sensitively (i.e. with
consideration to the landscape) along certain well-used routes?
Approximately three out of five respondents (61.0%) were keen to the sign
installed sensitively on certain well used routes. Amongst those respondents
Comment [JCS9]: Most
significant support for signs was
face to face, which is interesting.
10
Would you like to see this sign installed sensitively (i.e. with
consideration to the landscape) along certain well-used routes?
61.0
Online (Base: 530)
26.4
59.2
29.6
70.4
0%
10%
20%
30%
12.6
11.1
9.2
40%
Yes
50%
No
60%
70%
20.4
80%
90%
100%
Don't know
2.4 Would you like to see this sign rolled out across parks in the city?
Approximately three out of five respondents (57.7%) were in favour of the
signage being rolled out across parks in the city. Amongst those respondents
Comment [JCS10]: Majority
support if this was felt appropriate.
Second stage consultation with
Friends. Should we install these
signs? Where exactly?
Would you like to see this sign rolled out across parks in the city?
57.7
Online (Base: 526)
55.7
68.4
0%
20%
27.4
14.9
30.8
13.5
9.2
40%
Yes
60%
No
22.4
80%
100%
Don't know
11
Section 3: Services in Bute Park
3.1 On a rating scale of 1 to 5 with 1 being 'poor' and 5 being 'excellent'
how would you rate the provision of the following services in Bute Park?
As in earlier consultations grounds maintenance, formal floral displays and the
work of the park rangers each received the highest ratings from respondents.
Similarly lighting and toilet facilities with the park again received the lowest
ratings from respondents.
Fifteen of the twenty-one services within the park which respondents were
asked to rate were shown to have improved in comparison to the winter 2010
results. The largest increase was found in relation to the labelling of the
arboretum which increased its overall score by 0.17.
Grounds maintenance
Formal floral display
Work of the park rangers
Accessibility for prams/wheelchairs
Condition of paths
Provision of special events
Transport links
Provision of seating
Provision of refreshments
Personal safety
Sign posting
On site supervision and safety
Provision of litter bins
Visitor information
Provision for children
Labelling of the arboretum
Provision for youth
Publicity and promotion
Car parking
Lighting
Toilet facilities
Winter
2010
4.09
4.17
4.00
3.90
3.83
3.81
3.81
4.10
3.47
3.40
3.69
3.33
3.42
3.30
3.28
3.02
3.18
2.97
2.88
2.88
2.85
Summer
2011
4.26
4.23
4.10
4.04
4.03
3.89
3.90
3.60
3.51
3.63
3.68
3.54
3.27
3.36
3.38
3.17
3.25
2.98
3.07
2.92
2.32
Winter
2011
4.23
4.23
4.16
4.00
3.91
3.90
3.73
3.64
3.54
3.49
3.46
3.45
3.43
3.40
3.31
3.19
3.11
3.04
2.88
2.84
2.56
+/- Winter
2010/2011
+0.14
+0.06
+0.16
+0.10
+0.08
+0.09
-0.08
-0.46
+0.07
+0.09
-0.23
+0.12
+0.01
+0.10
+0.03
+0.17
+0.07
+0.07
-0.04
-0.29
12
Comment [JCS11]: Seek to
improve awareness, transport links
are good.
Comment [JCS12]: Should
drill down and find out where
people would like more seating.
Comment [JCS13]: NOTE Plans for improvement at end of
capital scheme.
Comment [JCS14]: Survey
undertaken before opening of 3
additional public toilets at West
Lodge. Hopeful this may improve
summer 2012.
Section 4: Awareness of the Restoration Project
4.1 Bute Park is currently undergoing a £5.6 million restoration project,
supported by a £3.1 million grant from the Heritage Lottery Fund. This
is to restore some important historic features within the park as well as
providing some new facilities. Are you aware of this project?
Comment [JCS15]: Desirable
to further raise awareness of
project. Will ask CCC Comms
Team for support with this
Approximately two fifths (41.5%) of all respondents reported that they were
aware of the Bute Park restoration project. This demonstrates a slight
increase on the figures collected during the summer 2011 consultation period
(36.9%).
Are you aware of the restoration project?
41.5
Online (Base: 545)
42.2
53.1
53.4
37.4
0%
10%
20%
5.4
4.4
51.5
30%
40%
Yes
50%
No
60%
11.1
70%
80%
90%
100%
Don't know
4.2 Do you feel that the park has changed in appearance over the past
twelve months?
Less than one in ten of all respondents (7.9%) considered the appearance of
Comment [JCS16]: Interesting
result. We do not aim to introduce
radical changes to the park’s
overall experience – that would be
inappropriate. Pleasing that those
who do think it has changed feel in
the main this has been for the
better. Quite high don’t knows.
Consider re-wording question next
time to gain more valuable insight
into perceived changes.
Bute Park to have declined over the past twelve months. Amongst those
respondents interviewed face to face in the park this figure fell to just one in
one hundred.
13
Do you feel that the park has changed in appearance over the past
twelve months?
44.5
25.3
Online (Base: 545)
43.7
26.2
49.0
0%
20%
Yes, it has improved
7.9
9.2
20.0
40%
No, it has stayed the same
22.3
60%
20.9
1.0
30.0
80%
Yes, it has declined
100%
Don't know
14
A total of 220 respondents provided comments regarding how they felt that
the park has improved over the last twelve months, a selection of these
comments are provided below:
Improved
Refreshment
facilities
Floral
provision/grounds
maintenance &
improvement
No.
116
50
Upgraded paths
Educational &
recreational
opportunities e.g.
trails and activities
30
Signs/benches/bins
22
Improved access
18
New bridge
specifically
12
Litter
Toilet facilities
12
7 • The summerhouse and education centre cafe and toilets are an asset
Animal Wall
Arboretum labelling
Opening times
Misc
42
Comments
• New cafe, opening up new parts means now proud to walk through it with
visitors and show it off.
• I love that there are now two refreshment areas, and the general upkeep of the
park is a lot better. It's a lovely park to visit in the Capital city.
• The new cafe areas are excellent and a very welcome addition to the park
• The provision of a refreshment/food unit near the bridge. It's lovely to be able to
enjoy the beautiful flowers whilst having a nice cup of coffee
• The summerhouse cafe makes the park feel more vibrant and lively.
• The new cafe area is superb, a lovely place to sit and have a coffee
• The standard of the flower beds and the general upkeep of the park has greatly
improved and the new area that has been upgraded nearer to the castle is
good.
• The floral displays are ALWAYS amazing and I am so grateful to live near such
a beautiful park.
• it's always improving here, the flowers get better every year
• Some of the paths seem to have been improved
• Paths are nicer and the park is more accessible, however it's important that
they look 'natural' instead of like roads
• The paths are in better condition, and access to walkers has improved
• Better paths resulting in an improved view overall
• I really like the education centre and the metal bug rubbings that kids can do
around the park
• The facilities such as the cafe now established and visitor centre/education
centre being completed
• Some extra signs and labelling when walking around the park
• Signage has improved
• Seems to be more litter bins and is busier over the summer period
• There are more places to sit, can now spend longer in here
• The access from the main road has improved as well as the number of new
areas for seating have increased
• Better access from North Road, better landscaping features.
• The access from Sophia Gardens into Bute Park is better and also the new
bridge into car park at North Road
• I was against the new vehicle access to the park but it seems to be being used
sensitively, and I've seen other parks in major conurbations with similar access
that doesn't spoil people's enjoyment
• the new bridge gaining access into the park from north rd has improved the
appearance
• It is an important amenity for the people of Cardiff and all the work (including
the road bridge) have help enhance the park.
• There appears to be less rubbish clinging to bushes overhanging the river.
• Better kept, less litter, more people respecting the park and using it
appropriately.
• General appearance and care - seems altogether a cleaner (litter free) and
more cared for environment
• The Animal Wall looks much better than it did
6 • The repair to the animal wall.
3 • Trees are now labelled
3
20
• Later opening hours for closing gates mean I can walk through the park when
working in civic centre
• The later opening for commuting cyclists/walkers is also an improvement.
• More emphasis on the natural environment
• New things are being built which are not taking anything away from the park
• I love Bute Park at the moment. It's particularly fantastic for walking my dogs
and I love the transport links (water) to the Bay
15
Comment [JCS17]: pleasing to
see so many people taking the time
to share their opinions on
improvements. Many are a direct
result of the HLF project but also
credit is given to the continued
hard work and increasing standards
of the various grounds
maintenance teams.
In comparison just 44 respondents detailed ways in which they considered the
park to have declined in the last twelve months.
Declined
No.
Comments
New bridge
19
Increased
paths/roadway
14
Traffic
8
Events
6
Commercialisation
Horticulture/Grounds
maintenance
6
Litter
Sports pitches
Anti social behaviour
Misc
• Vehicle access bridge from North Rd has prejudiced safety and spoilt the
appearance of this part of the park. Despite many objections this blight on our
best park was allowed to go ahead.
• The new bridge onto North Road and associated roads in the park has a
detrimental impact on the look and safety of that area of the park.
• The removal of trees and the new bridge onto North Road has opened up what
was once a lovely quiet secluded section of the park and introduced the noise and
dust from the heavy traffic on the road.
• The road bridge from North Road into Bute Park from North Road was
unnecessary and opened up the park to both noise pollution, and articulated
trucks driving along the paths.
• The new access bridge is an eyesore and the widening of the paths has
destroyed the tranquillity of the park. Trucks/cars should not have access to the
park. The park is for the citizens of Cardiff.
• The building of roadways throughout the park has had a negative effect on the
park and I can only see use of these roadways increasing as time goes on
• Not sure I like the perceived increase in tarmacing of paths.
• The building of a road through the park onto North Road has disturbed the
tranquillity of the park.
• Trucks/cars should not have access to the park. The park is for the citizens of
Cardiff.
• Too much building work and cars (e.g., builders) driving at fast speed (around
bends they cannot oversee!)
• Too many events are being held and take up space that could have been used by
citizens without having to pay for it.
• Big concerts do not need to be held in the park.
• Over the 30 years that I have been using the park it has become a place for
commercial opportunism rather than a place of tranquillity in the centre of a city.
• The park seems to be becoming very developed and commercialised.
• Herbaceous border deteriorating each of last 2 years
4 • less maintenance of flower beds
• Litter caused by the very people who use the park and Ice cream vans should be
made to provide there own bins at the point of sale and not leave the council to
deal with litter retrospectively.
3
1 • Football pitches are a disgrace
1 • Dog mess and alcoholics frequenting the park and abusing passers by.
2
• River seems to be dirtier.
• Whilst the Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama has been done well and the
bridge is attractive, it has taken away some of the park's general area. I know it is
only a small amount but the danger of doing this is that slowly by slowly the park's
area diminishes significantly
16
Section 5: The Education Centre
The 21st of October saw the official launch of the new education centre in
Bute Park. The centre contains classroom space and is currently available for
hire and use by appointment (by school groups for example) on weekdays. In
time it is hoped the centre can be opened for more informal “drop in” use and
opening hours extended, however, the on site catering outlet and toilet
facilities are available during park opening hours right throughout the year.
5.1 Are you aware of the new building and have you visited yet?
A total of 636 responses were received in relation to awareness about the new
building equating to a response rate of 98.3%.
A total of 633 responses were received regarding visits made to the new building
equating to a response rate of 97.8%.
Less than half (44.2%) of all respondents reported that they were aware of the
new education centre. Amongst those respondents interviewed face to face
Comment [JCS18]: Not
unexpected given short time before
survey. Also signage still to go up.
Will be hoping for an increase next
time, though good results at this
stage.
in the park the proportion that were aware of the new building was 50.0%.
Overall, just 15.0% of respondents reported that they had as yet visited the
new building. Of those that were aware of the building approximately a third
(32.6%) had already visited.
The 21st of October saw the official launch on the new education
centre in Bute Park...
Are you aware of the new
building? (Base: 636)
44.2
Have you visited the site
yet? (Base: 633)
55.8
15.0
0%
10%
85.0
20%
30%
40%
50%
Yes
60%
70%
80%
90%
100%
No
17
Comment [JCS19]: Not
unexpected given not open to
public at time of survey. Will
hope for increase next time and
now open for public drop in on
weekends.
5.2 If you have visited, on a rating scale of 1 to 5 with 1 being 'poor' and
5 being 'excellent' how would you rate the education in terms of the
following?
Comment [JCS20]: Very
pleasing that these all fall within
the upper end of the “very good”
score band – only some limited
room for further improvement.
The visitor centre was rated highly by those that had already visited in all
areas. Most favourable scored however were the quality of the building and
the café facilities.
Responses
Quality of the building
Cafe facilities
Public toilets
Appropriateness of the facility
86
81
79
85
Score
4.23
4.16
4.14
4.07
A total of 118 respondents made additional comments regarding the
education centre although eighteen of these simply referred to the fact that as
yet they had not had the opportunity to make a visit. Most of the remaining
comments were favourable however some questions were raised over how
well the building had been advertised and how it will be used in the future.
18
A selection of the comments made are provided below:
Improved
No.
Good idea
29
Advertising/publicity
25
Use of the centre
21
Against the
development
13
Look good
6
Door
4
Miscellaneous
12
Comments
• A really super addition to Bute Park
• It looks to be a fantastic facility and I hope it will be maintained as well as the
rest of the park.
• I think it is a really fantastic investment and I'm pleased the council have the
interests of the community at heart.
• Brilliant idea to introduce this
• There is nothing to say that the education centre is available to the general
public. Could you put up a sign when the centre is available to be visited
please?
• Where is it?! Such a shame we don't know about it.
• Has it been publicised if so I haven't seen it
• It’s not brilliantly signposted and there is little information about informal
activities taking place there such as drop in sessions etc. Not much information
about where it is or what it is hoping to achieve
• Not aware of it - need more publicity
• Could it be used for conferences and things like that? I would go to day classes
there if they were offered
• Have a quiet room there for people's meditation and prayer purposes
• Could be used for children’s parties etc as fundraising
• I would like to see evening horticultural or tree surgery courses taking place
• I teach secondary students with learning difficulties, are there education
programmes appropriate for them?
• I would prefer to see money spent on the gardens and paths around the
gardens than a new concrete building centre
• It should not have been built in the park. It is another addition that slowly
diminishes the quality of Bute Park
• I feel very unhappy about building taking place on our precious green spaces.
Surely being outside would be the education here. Children know what a
classroom looks like.
• Looks good and fits in well with the surroundings
• Nice building, nice seating and cafe area
• I love the entrance door and outside seating area.
• Fantastic door handle! Please publish where it came from / who made it!
• It shut just as we arrived - before 4pm on the last Sunday in November. And the
staff seemed keen to get away
• No urinal in men’s toilets, makes toilets busier
• It would be nice to see it open a little more often
• I used the cafe and although there is a nice menu the service was pretty
average and it was disappointing to see so many tables with dirty crockery
staying there for quite a long time after people had gone. Not a particularly
appetising sight when having lunch.
• Make dogs go on a lead on the shared cycle paths
• There should be an undercover area for the cafe, including for the dog walkers
who aren't allowed inside. More information on flora and fauna to be found in
park, as well as the historical aspect. The "education" should permeate inside
and outside the Centre for all to be able to see.
• What consideration has been made for people who's main spoken language is
not English
• I hope that you will not allow vehicles to enter the park for UNNECESSARY
access. Visitors can walk from the car park easily
• Put more lighting
• It is important that access to and from the centre is available during normal
business times i.e. in winter it is not good that centre has to close at dusk
• Will be interested to visit.
• This park is well maintained and really enjoyed. Only thing I'd like more help
with is parking.
19
Comment [JCS21]: Agreed
need better publicity sign posting.
Plans are in progress to address
this
Comment [JCS22]: . All this
feedback will be forwarded to the
Education Officer to consider
. Our challenge is to demonstrate
value of the asset.
Comment [JCS24]: NOTE –
interpretation sign will be installed
April 2012.
Section 6: Bute Park Identity
A new logo has recently been developed for Bute Park & Arboretum. The
logo (shown below) uses the leaf of the ancient gingko tree. These trees form
an avenue up Castle Mews at the rear of the castle; a unique feature of the
park. The shape of the gingko tree is used to represent Bute Park as the
“green heart” of Cardiff and the stylised castle and castle typography used to
reinforce the importance of the relationship between the two sites.
6.1 Have you seen this logo before?
Just 12.9% of respondents reported that they had already seen the new logo.
Have you seen this logo before?
All Respondents (Base:
643)
12.9
4.8
82.3
Online (Base: 543)
12.7
4.6
82.7
14.0
0%
10%
6.0
20%
80.0
30%
40%
Yes
50%
60%
Don't know
70%
80%
90%
100%
No
20
Comment [JCS25]: Survey
was undertaken before roll out of
the brand so unsurprising to find
low brand awareness. Will hope to
see significant improvement at
time of next survey and beyond.
A total of 250 respondents provided additional comments relating to the logo,
173 (69.2%) of which demonstrated support for the design, a selection of the
comments made included:
Improved
No.
Comments
• The logo is lovely!
• It's good, traditional and well thought out.
• I recognised the leaf before reading the statement above it. Thus for other
gardeners at least, I think it is a great logo. I also really like the simplicity and
the green and white is absolutely right.
• I like it. I think it is stylish and not over designed.
• I like it. I think it will need explaining but once you understand what it represents
I think it is very good.
• It is simple and clear to read. Green keeps the feel of the countryside and
trees. Like it.
• I think it is simple but strong, it is not fussy at all
• It works well in combining the castle and the outdoor area
• I like it - I recognise the Gingko leaf and I love the Gingko trees in Bute Park This I can say I do approve!
Like the logo
173 • It looks effective and says quickly what it is about
• Looks like a clover or a symbol for Ireland
• Might be better to have a more recognisable leaf shape or even a tree shape
you don't know Cardiff Bute Park could be anywhere in Wales
• Without the description above it would be hard to understand what the logo is
trying to convey
• It is not properly bilingual. Parc Bute Park is fine but there is no translation of
arboretum
Feel it could be
• This logo doesn't relate to Cardiff in any way
improved
51 • It's quite boring
• Trees matter. Logos don't. How much did that logo cost to "develop"? get a grip.
• Is Gingko a native tree?
• It's quite nice but I hope it did not cost a lot of money to design and use, given
the difficulties that Cardiff council faces at the moment
• It's Ironic you came up with this when all you want to do is tarmac over the
Parkland and Trees!
• Too much money is spent on logos and designs. It is more important that the
park is kept clean and maintained
Miscellaneous
34 • It is good - but I wouldn't want to see loads of signs all over the park
NB. Multiple responses mean that the totals do not equal 100%
21
Comment [JCS26]: Pleasing
to see high support of brand
design. Logo was developed inhouse at no additional cost to the
project. Can evidence that our
objective for the Logo has been
met.
Section 7: West Lodge
The Restoration Project also includes plans for the redevelopment of the West
Lodge building at the entrance to Bute Park. Under plans the building will be
transformed into a traditional style tea room and gift shop to be used by
visitors to the park.
7.1 Do you approve of the proposals?
A total of 574 responses were received in relation to the gift shop equating to a
response rate of 88.7%.
A total of 583 responses were received regarding proposals for a tea room equating
to a response rate of 90.1%.
Comment [JCS27]: Consistent
, excellent approval ratings for
both these new facilities – very
pleasing.
Nine tenths (91.3%) of respondents were in favour of the proposals for a gift
shop at West Lodge whilst an even higher proportion (95.4%) approved of
plans for a tea room on the site.
Do you approve of the proposals?
Gift shop (Base: 574)
91.3
Tea room (Base: 583)
8.7
95.4
0%
10%
20%
30%
40%
I approve of these plans
50%
4.6
60%
70%
80%
90%
100%
I do not approve of these plans
These figures mirror the results collected during summer 2011 when 92.4% of
respondents expressed their approval for the introduction of tea rooms and
84.4% for a gift shop at the West Lodge.
22
7.2 Would you use these facilities?
A total of 342 responses were received in relation to the gift shop equating to a
response rate of 52.9%.
A total of 352 responses were received regarding proposals for a tea room equating
Comment [JCS28]: Useful
indications of footfall – gift shop
needs to capitalise on anticipated
popularity of tearoom – retail lines
need to compliment the tearoom
audience.
More than half (55.8%) of respondents reported that they would use a gift
shop based at the West Lodge whilst 81.3% reported that they would make
use of a tea room at the same location.
Would you use this facility?
Gift shop (Base: 342)
55.8
Tea room (Base: 352)
44.2
81.3
0%
10%
20%
30%
40%
I would use this facility
18.8
50%
60%
70%
80%
90%
100%
I would not use this facility
These figures mirror the results collected during summer 2011 when 77.8% of
respondents reported that they would use a tea room facility based at the
West Lodge and similarly 51.6% reported that they would use a gift shop
based at the same location/
23
Section 8: Access
8.1 The east-west foot and cycle path from the Royal Welsh Collage of
Music and Drama to the Millennium Foot Bridge is currently open until
7pm as part of a pilot until 31st Dec.
A total of 631 responses were received in relation to awareness of the pilot equating
A total of 618 responses were received by respondents regarding approval of the
pilot equating to a response rate of 95.5%.
Approximately a third (34.2%) of respondents reported that they were aware
Comment [JCS29]: High
support for pilot. More work to do
on awareness raising. Note a
revised comms plan has been put
in place.
of the pilot although four fifths (79.9%) considered it to be a good idea.
The east-west foot and cycle path from the Royal Welsh Collage of Music
and Drama to the Millennium Foot Bridge is currently open until 7pm as part
of a pilot until 31st Dec...
Are you aware of this pilot?
(Base: 631)
34.2
63.4
Do you think that it is a good
idea? (Base: 618)
79.9
0%
10%
20%
30%
40%
Yes
2.4
5.8
50%
No
60%
70%
80%
14.2
90%
100%
Don't know
A total of 156 respondents made additional comments regarding the pilot. A
high proportion of these comments were in favour of extending the pilot
however some significant concerns were also raised regarding safely and
lighting in the park. A selection of the comments made included:
24
Comment [JCS30]: The full
data set from this question needs to
be submitted and considered as
part of the pilot review. Valuable
and interesting feedback including
opposing views on opening times
and lighting need further
consideration.
Improved
No.
Comments
• I use it several times a week. I strongly support its continuation.
• I am using it daily, and has improved my commute immeasurably. It saves
me from having to cycle through the city centre
• Please keep it going. I have used my bike more to commute since you
opened the park in the evening
• I think keeping the park open as late as possible for cyclists is an excellent
67 idea
• The pilot is an excellent idea and I hope it is continued
Good idea/keep it up
(42.9%) • This pilot has been very useful for me and I really hope that it continues on
• Although I think the access to the park after hours is good, there is not
enough lighting on pathways and I have decided for this reason not to cycle
through the park after dark
• Some people will not use the route because it is not lit.
• If there was better lighting the use of this route would increase
53 • Only that it would help if some extra lighting were installed on the path in the
vicinity of the "Pig" - where it gets very dark. Such lighting could be
Lighting
(34.0%)
affordable, e.g. solar sticks.
• I do not consider this area to be safe during hours of darkness
38 • I wouldn't want to walk there after dark in case of being attacked
• People I know have been mugged on this footpath
Safety concerns
(24.4%) • As long as stays safe then don't see a problem
• Can it be extended to the other gates?
• This should be applied to all entrances of the park. If access can be gained at
one entrance then why not all?
• Small community parks such as Grange Gardens & Kitchener shouldn't be
locked at all
18 • The park should never be closed. Some of us like to wander/travel in the
dark. In the summer it is shameful that the park is locked up when the sun is
Widen access
(11.5%)
still bright.
• Brilliant idea but poorly publicised as haven't seen anything in my local bike
shop or in Chapter
• It would be really useful if it were widely advertised throughout the park - the
current signage ('Warning! Park open until 7!') is totally inadequate and sends
out the wrong message. It doesn't seem to celebrate the fact that the pilot is
14 happening!
• The signage for 7 pm locking was absent for 2 and a half months of the 3
Promotion
(9.0%)
month trial.
• It would be wise to install CCTV at the very least so that people using the
paths as a shortcut are at least monitored if the paths are not able to be
7 guarded at all times.
• I think it would be improved by a greater presence of staff as it can feel
CCTV/Supervision
(4.5%)
unsafe
• Having seen a photo in the Echo, how do I get a bike / wheelchair / pushchair
through the turnstile?
• In order to preserve the park from the effects of the anti social behaviour and
24 crime in general the park should only be open between sunrise and sunset
• I've heard there are arguments in favour of lighting this route and using it on
Miscellaneous
(15.4%)
a permanent basis. Please don't do this!
NB. Multiple responses mean that the totals do not equal 100%
8.3 An exit-only turn stile has been installed at the Royal Welsh College
of Music and Drama to provide an appropriate exit for anyone who finds
themselves locked in the park after hours.
A total of 641 responses were received in relation to awareness of the exit equating
A total of 632 responses were received by respondents regarding approval of the
new exit equating to a response rate of 97.7%.
25
Less than a fifth (18.6%) of respondents reported being aware of the newly
installed exit at the Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama although almost
ninety percent (87.2%) considered it to be a good idea.
An exit-only turn stile has been installed at the Royal Welsh College
of Music and drama to provide an appropriate exit for anyone who
finds themselves locked in the park after hours...
Are you aware of this?
(Base: 641)
18.6
78.8
Do you think it is a good
idea? (Base: 632)
2.7
87.2
0%
10%
20%
30%
40%
Yes
4.5 6.9
50%
No
60%
70%
80%
90%
100%
Don't know
26
Comment [JCS31]: Turn stile
was only installed 17th Nov 2011,
low awareness so soon after is not
unexpected. Position will be
marked as part of new entrance
sign scheme programmed at back
end of project. Very high approval
rating evidences money well spent.
Section 9: Blackfriars Friary
Blackfriars Friary is a scheduled ancient monument dating back to the 12th
Century and is of national importance as it is one of the few friary sites for
which the full building plan is known. During the 1880’s the 3rd Marquess of
Bute undertook a partial restoration of the site, and it is the Victorian brickwork
that you see on the site today. As part of the Bute Park Restoration Project
the Victorian restoration will be conserved and signage introduced to allow
people to better understand and interpret the site.
The picture below showing the north view across Black Friars Friary was
shown to respondents.
9.1 Do you know what this area of Bute Park is called?
A total of 642 responses were received by respondent’s equating to a response rate
of 99.2%.
Just ten percent of those interviewed face to face were able to correctly name
Blackfriars Friary.
27
Do you know what this area of Bute Park is called?
All Respondents
(Base:642)
17.6
Online (Base: 542)
82.4
19.0
Face to Face
(Base:100)
81.0
10.0
0%
10%
90.0
20%
30%
40%
Yes
50%
60%
70%
80%
90%
100%
Do not know
A total of 113 (17.6%) respondents stated that they knew what this area of
Bute Park was called, however just 76 went on to actually name the site and
of these just 34 specifically named ‘Blackfriars’ in their response and 28 the
word ‘Friary’. A selection of the other responses provided included:
•
•
•
•
•
Greyfriars
Old Priory
Sensory Garden
Monastery
Rectory
•
•
•
•
Comment [JCS32]: This
provides baseline data against
which to judge the impact of the
planned restoration and
interpretation schemes. The very
poor awareness is notable but not
unexpected given the absence of
any on-site interpretation.
Historic Ruins - possibly a
cathedral?
Peace Garden
Italian Garden
Coopers Field
9.2 Looking at the picture again...
A total of 639 responses were received by respondent’s regarding each of the
statements below equating to response rates of 98.8%.
Approximately a quarter (24.2%) of all respondents reported that they were
aware that the site is an ancient monument - an old friary site - dating from the
1200’s.
In comparison just 15.6% of all respondents were reportedly aware that what
remains today is largely brickwork dating from the 1800’s which was laid down
by the 3rd Marquess of Bute to show the layout of the original friary site.
28
Comment [JCS33]: Note
neither of the sites key periods of
history are presently understood.
Looking at the picture again...
Are you aw are that it is an ancient
monument - an old f riary site dating from the 1200’s? (Base:639)
24.1
Are you aw are that w hat remains
today is largely brickw ork dating
from the late 1800s w hich w as laid
dow n by the 3rd Marquess of Bute
to show the layout of the original
friary site? (Base:639)
0%
75.9
15.6
10%
84.4
20%
30%
40%
50%
Yes
60%
70%
80%
90%
100%
No
29
Section 10: The Out of the Woods Festival
The 'Out of the Woods Festival' is an annual event held during August. It is a
free, family orientated festival held in Coopers Field and themed around
woodland management and conservation.
10.1
Have you heard of this event before?
Just three in every ten (29.5%) respondents reported that they had heard of
the ‘Out of the Woods Festival’.
This does however show a definite increase from the figures collected during
the summer 2011 when just 12.0% of respondents reported to have
previously heard of the festival.
All Respondents (Base:644)
29.5
68.0
2.5
Online (Base:545)
29.9
68.4
1.7
Face to Face (Base:99)
27.3
0%
65.7
20%
40%
Yes
10.2
60%
No
7.1
80%
100%
Don't know
Is it something that you may be interested in attending in future?
Whilst approximately just three in ten respondents were aware of the Out of
the Woods Festival almost twice as many (57.2%) felt that it was something
30
to see a significant increase from
last year as a result of a more
concerted marketing and publicity
campaign which included a feature
in the Castle Events programme.
Unfortunately, it was not included
in the 2012 programme so will be
interesting to see if this drops
back. Given the nature & scale of
event it is not necessary or
desirable to significantly raise
awareness further.
that they would be interested in attending in the future. This proportion is
similar to that found in the summer 2011 consultation when 52.1% of
respondents reported that they would be interested in attending the festival in
the future.
All Respondents (Base:
643)
57.2
Online (Base: 545)
21.6
59.8
19.1
42.9
0%
10%
20%
21.2
21.1
35.7
30%
40%
Yes
50%
No
60%
21.4
70%
80%
90%
100%
Don't know
31
Section 11: Best and Worst
11.1 What do you think is the best thing about Bute Park?
A total of 510 (78.8%) respondents provided details regarding what they
believe to be the best thing about Bute Park. As found in previous
consultations it was both the size of Bute Park and its city centre location that
were considered the most appealing aspects of the park.
Many respondents considered Cardiff to stand apart from other large cities in
having such an expansive ‘green lung’ or ‘piece of country side’ situated in the
heart of the city.
Comment [JCS35]: These
comments could be utilised and
used as part of the marketing
campaign e.g. as testimonial
quotes & to inspire tag lines.
Just a few of the comments received relating to these points include:
The sheer size and
tranquillity of the park
right in the heart of
the city centre
It is a beautiful
green 'lung' in the
centre of Cardiff
The most fantastic open space
of any City that I have visited
The sense of being virtually in
the countryside
The openness and the thought
that you could be in the middle
of the country side not in the
city centre
Wide green spaces in
the middle of the city
It is an oasis in a busy City Centre
where you can find peace and
where visitors to the city can enjoy
and admire the surroundings
The size of it and the lack of formal gardens
in favour of awesome trees
A priceless resource,
very lucky to have
such green space in
the city centre
The park is so large and
all areas are easily
accessible by the
winding paths and from
the car parks dotted
around the perimeter.
The wide open spaces, where
my dog can run around and
exercise freely
The size of the area, plenty of open space
which means even at the height of summer
while at its busiest there is room for everyone
to use the park for their desired function
whether that be a walk or a game of football
Comment [JCS36]: It is
consistently clear that the park’s
unique selling point is its size and
central city location. This has
been captured in the main tag lie
“The green heart of the city” –
which is also represented in the
logo. Essential that these qualities
are preserved and protected.
Interesting that historic interest is
scoring very low. This may
increase as a result of the increased
interpretation of heritage features
on site.
Also considered to be the best features of Bute Park were the peacefulness
within (17.8%), the trees (14.7%) and the overall attractiveness of the park
(13.1%).
32
What do you think is the best thing about Bute Park?
(Base:510)
City Centre location
36.1
Large size/open space
36.1
17.8
Peacefulness
Trees
14.7
Attractiveness
13.1
Planting
12.2
Range of activities
11.0
Maintenance
9.0
7.3
Paths & trails
6.3
Shortcut/link
Wildlife/nature
6.1
5.3
River
Cycling
4.5
That it is free
3.9
Access
3.7
Cafés
3.5
1.8
Historical interest
0
5
10
15
20
25
30
35
40
Percentage
11.2 What do you think is the worst thing about Bute Park?
A total of 449 (69.4%) respondents also provided details of what they
considered to be the worst thing about Bute Park, of these 11.8% took the
opportunity to state that they consider Bute Park to be without failings. Of
those individuals that were able to highlight specific areas for improvement
feedback will be taken back to the
Urban Park rangers and partner
agencies, including the Friends
Group to seek proposals on how
this finding can be addressed.
However, pleasing to see no
“spikes” requiring urgent attention.
issues relating to personal safety featured highly.
A selection of the comments made in relation to this point included:
33
Lack of security!
I do not think I would like to visit the park
alone; I am unsure as to how safe it would be
People lurk and I don't
feel safe by myself
Lack of visibility of
park keepers. Tend
not to go too far into
the park on my own
as it feels a bit
unsafe due to no-one
being about.
Occasional vandalism - we have
observed people picking flowers from
the ornamental area one also sees
trees/saplings damaged - perhaps more
patrols by rangers would help
We have stopped visiting it
as there are too many
drunks who frequent it in
large numbers
Can get dark and scary at night
Can attract wrong
sort of people
when it gets later
Gangs of teenagers
drinking & taking drugs.
Needles and condoms
often found under trees
where kids play!
6.9% of the comments made in the winter 2011 consultation referred to the lack
to see this drop, which is hopefully
a trend that will continue as
additional facilities are opened in
2012.
of toilet facilities in Bute Park indicating a fall from 13.5% since the previous
consultation during summer 2011.
What do you think is the worst thing about Bute Park?
(Base:449)
Safety/security/anti social behaviours
16.5
Nothing is bad
11.8
Dogs
8.2
Closing times
8.2
Litter
7.8
Lack of lighting
7.3
Ongoing developments/building of roads
7.1
Lack of toilets
6.9
Cyclists
6.2
Lack of signage/information
6.0
Other
5.3
Too many events
4.5
Increased traf fic
4.2
Lack of children's play area
3.1
Accessibility
2.0
Footpaths
1.8
Parking
1.8
Lack of seating
1.1
Now here to shelter
0.7
Cold w eather
0.4
0
2
4
6
8
10
12
14
16
18
Percentage
34
11.3 Is there anything you wish to add that this survey has not allowed
you to say regarding Bute Park?
A total of 164 (25.3%) respondents took the opportunity to add additional
comments to their return. Most commonly these comments included
concerns regarding the potential overdevelopment of the park and a desire to
see many of its existing features retained for future users. A selection of the
comments received relating to this point includes:
The most important thing is
that the park is maintained in
a way that serves people to
use it for their own purposes
rather than seeking to make
money or otherwise out of
this amazing amenity
Most of the proposed
developments seem ok,
but I'm slightly concerned
about it becoming overly
commercialised
Please avoid overcommercialising it and try to
keep it as traffic free as possible
Don't over manage
it or make it too
touristy. It's nice to
have a natural
space
Don't over-commercialise
it please. The additions are
great to a point, just don't
ruin the peace and space
for wildlife
viewpoint is accepted and
understood within the Park
Service. Useful to have this
opinion/evidence base to inform
future policy decisions.
The need to raise funds
through big events does
have to be balanced
with the impact on the
park. Perhaps a limit
per year to give it time
to recover.
The potential for this beautiful space to be
commercially exploited is my greatest
concern. There are already some signs
that this has happened and future policy
must be framed in a way which ensures
that the park is still as beautiful and
unspoilt in years to come for the people of
Cardiff to enjoy as was intended. There
are not many such parks in City Centres this is special.
Another point raised by respondents were that the park needs to be
viewpoint is also accepted and
understood by the Parks Service
and plans are in place as part of the
project to improve in this area.
advertised more and have improved signage within it (14.0%) whilst 13.4%
took the opportunity to say how much they loved the park.
35
Is there anything you wish to add that this survey has not allowed you to say
regarding Bute Park?
(Base:164)
Concerns regarding overdevelopment/commercialisation
15.9
Signing/advertising
14.0
I love Bute Park
13.4
Thank you
8.5
Cyclists
6.1
In favour of the developments
6.1
Security/safety
4.9
Dogs
2.4
Traffic
1.8
Closing times
1.8
Access
1.2
Anti-social behaviour
1.2
Bins/litter
1.2
Toilets
0.6
Miscellaneous
11.6
Suggestions for further improvements
17.7
0
2
4
6
8
10
12
14
16
18
20
Percentage
A total of twenty-nine respondents (17.7%) chose to offer suggestions as to
what additions or improvements that they would like to see in the park. These
included:
“Security re-assurance may be needed? Other than that, a bandstand might be useful around
which to centre musical events, or an opportunity to show case local musicians - could be a
rotated theme of brass, folk, jazz etc?”
“Spend money on maintaining the green environment. Plant more trees, not just in the Park but
all over Cardiff. They are attractive and absorb pollution and carbon dioxide”
“I would like to urge that the development of the Lodge consults the art sector on plans for the
gallery space. There is a wealth of knowledge and intelligence on this area and the city council
is initiating a dialogue with the visual arts sector on a city-wide scheme for joined up
promotional programming, and this should be part of that initiative”
“Could the runners have a few more indicators for potential runs through the woods with
distance indicators? There are some but they're not very clear”
“Better access to the park from Canton Bridge end for pedestrians/bus users - ie a bus stop
outside entrance (I know this is difficult to achieve)”
“Park tends to get very muddy in winter so possibly a tarmac path at top end of park near
millennium bridge”
36
to see some of these suggestions
are already planned as part of the
project.
“If you want to educate kids about conservation of woodland etc. fine - do so - but the best way
to get kids and young people out of bars and into the park is to make it attractive with flowers,
fountains, walks, trees and kids areas and to add some really attractive European-style cafes and I don't mean some horrible Costa Coffee of Greggs bakery - try a beautiful French
patisserie and coffee shop - try a chick French bistro serving hot baguettes. If you stress the
woodland conservation aspects and try to incorporate learning too much into the enterprise you
will fail. Kids will not go there - I know what would be attractive to my 14 year old nephew and
it wouldn't be a visitor centre. It would be a cafe in a nice spot by the river where young kids
can meet.”
“It would he nice to see a children's play area, possibly a wood themes climbing and exploring
apparatus dispersed amongst an area of trees. My children love to climb the trees too.”
“Would be good if refreshment facilities existed further up near weir bridge”
“Thank you for maintaining what is a great green lung for the city. Cardiff is a Fair Trade City.
More should be done (perhaps at tender stage) to ensure that the cafe facilities reflect this fact.
Also they could do more to promote health eating”
“A plaque or similar explaining the Bute family use for the grounds and the old stables, along
with the building of the feeder for Cardiff Docks etc”
“Its great to see the capital investment in the park facilities, but there needs to be a rolling
programme of improvements beyond the current proposals to tackle issues such as the dock
feeder and path improvements”
“Maybe it could be used for the marathon and the like”
“I would like to see some appropriate natural style children's play equipment in the park”
“More music events or gigs should be held in coopers field - these should also be better
promoted on the whole i adore having the opportunity to show off Bute Park to family and
friends when they visit me in Cardiff”
“Need more concerts and music events - Cardiff used to be one of the frontrunners in the UK
for live music - it is now lagging well behind”
“I would like virtually vandal proof tree names on all the unusual trees in the park.
“It is time to move the sports pitches out of the park and to plant a city forest in that area of
Blackweir. There are plenty of sports pitches in Pontcanna and Llandaff Fields that are under
used”
“Would like to see a botanical garden developed”
“Bute park really need some more facilities for families. It needs to attract them - look at all the
large parks in this country. Each one has playgrounds for children and families.”
“I'd like to suggest that the park be used more for live music. I work in live music, and I
understand that noise pollution can be an issue. But if the event (and more importantly the PA)
is designed properly, and local residents are appropriately warned and/or invited, I think it's an
excellent way of using the space, and providing local & international artists a venue to entertain
the residents of Cardiff. Opposition should to a certain extent be ignored, as there are always
going to be NIMBYS. I live by Ninian Park, and the football related traffic/noise/rubbish is of
course a little inconvenient at times, but I wouldn't try to stop it, it's amazing to have such
facilities at our doorstep, and we should use them as much as possible.”
“Try some "Pony rides" for the children.”
“Need more events to bring the city together”
37
“Maybe a picnic area”
“More events for families and younger children”
“I think it would be a great if there was a facility in Bute Park which allowed visitors to rent out
Coracles, the small boats that fisherman once used on the Taff. It would be something really
distinctive to promote both the park and Cardiff as a whole.”
“I think there should be more planting of native trees.”
“Drinking points for runners/sports people.”
“Be good if we can really upgrade the refreshment places so that they dont just serve coffee
and panini but something really different so they become destination cafes in their own right.
Check out what they are doing in Victoria Park, London. Amazing breakfast venue serving
innovative, gastro type food of good value. Amazing place to have breakfast, read the papers,
chill out in the park.”
38
Section 12: Social Media
12.1 Bute Park has dedicated pages on Cardiff Council's website,
www.cardiff.gov.uk/butepark
A total of 633 responses were received by respondent’s regarding awareness of the
pages equating to response rates of 97.8%.
A total of 611 responses were received regarding visits to the pages equating to
response rates of 94.4%.
Approximately two fifths (40.6%) of respondents reported that they were
aware of dedicated Bute Park pages on the Cardiff Council website although
less than a third (31.6%) had visited them.
Comment [JCS43]: Provides
trend against previous baseline.
Challenge now is to make these
pages as relevant & useful as
possible.
Bute Park has dedicated pages on Cardiff Council's website...
Are you aware of these
pages? (Base: 633)
40.6
Have you visited these
pages? (Base: 611)
57.0
31.6
0%
10%
20%
2.4
66.0
30%
40%
Yes
50%
No
60%
70%
2.5
80%
90%
100%
Unsure
These figures demonstrate a considerable increase from those collected
during the summer 2011 when just 22.7% of respondents reported being
aware of the pages and just 15.1% had visited them2.
12.2 Facebook is now a popular way to share information on a wide
range of topics. Bute Park can also now be found on Facebook:
2
The apparent increase in awareness and accessing of the Bute Park pages on www.cardiff.gov.uk may
be as a result of increased penetration of the survey via twitter, social media and Your Inbox.
to see marked increase from last
survey.
39
A total of 638 responses were received by respondent’s regarding their use of
Facebook equating to response rates of 98.6%.
A total of 636 responses were received regarding respondents awareness of Bute
Park on Facebook equating to response rates of 98.3%.
A total of 634 responses were received regarding respondents likelihood of joining
Bute Park on Facebook equating to response rates of 98.0%.
Approximately three in every five respondents (57.7%) reported to be users of
Facebook. Just 12.6% were aware of Bute Park’s presence on Facebook
although a quarter (26.0%) reported that they would be likely to join Bute Park
on the site.
Bute Park can also now be found on Facebook...
Are you a user of
Facebook? (Base: 638)
57.7
Are you aware of Bute
Park on Facebook? (Base:
636)
41.7
12.6
Would you join Bute Park
on Facebook? (Base: 634)
86.6
26.0
0%
59.1
20%
40%
Yes
60%
No
14.8
80%
100%
Unsure
40
Section 13: About You
The ratio of male to female respondents was split 50:50 whilst the under thirty
fives were shown to account for a third (32.3%) of all returns.
Gender
Male
Female
Total
No.
310
318
628
%
49.4
50.6
100.0
No.
Age
16-24
25-34
35-44
45-54
55-64
65+
Total
%
51
153
140
134
89
66
633
8.1
24.2
22.1
21.2
14.1
10.4
100.0
Just 6.2% of respondents to the consultation identified themselves as
disabled.
Do you identify yourself
as disabled?
No.
Yes
No
Total
%
39
591
630
6.2
93.8
100.0
White Welsh/English/Scottish/Northern Irish/British accounted for almost nine
tenths (88.4%) of all respondents to the consultation. The estimated White
British population in Cardiff from mid 2008 was 84.8% (This estimate is an
"experimental" statistic and has not yet received formal National Statistics status. It should
therefore be used with appropriate caution and awareness of its limitations)
Ethnic group
White - Welsh/English/Scottish/Northern Irish/British
White - Irish
White - Gypsy or Irish Traveller
White - Any other white background
Mixed/Multiple Ethnic Groups - White and Black Caribbean
Mixed/Multiple Ethnic Groups - White and Black African
Mixed/Multiple Ethnic Groups - White & Asian
Mixed/Multiple Ethnic Groups - Any other
Asian/Asian British - Indian
Asian/Asian British - Pakistani
Asian/Asian British - Bangladeshi
Asian/Asian British - Chinese
Asian/Asian British - Any other
Black/African/Caribbean/Black British - African
Black/African/Caribbean/Black British - Caribbean
Black/African/Caribbean/Black British - Any other
Arab
No.
%
550
8
0
23
2
1
3
0
7
2
2
2
3
0
1
0
5
88.4
1.3
0.0
3.7
0.3
0.2
0.5
0.0
1.1
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.5
0.0
0.2
0.0
0.8
41
Any other ethnic group
Prefer not to say
Total
0
13
622
0.0
2.1
100.0
What is your postcode?
Map 1 shows the distribution of all respondents to the consultation.
Postcodes were further plotted to show the distributions of those respondents
visiting Bute Park more than once a month compared to those visiting less
frequently.
42
to note a fairly balanced split on
east & west side of park and fairly
even distribution across city.
However can see the most frequent
visitors have a west biased. Also,
interestingly Cathays ward is
relatively under represented.
Why?
Can you faintly show the ward names please?
If you are a regular user of Bute Park please indicate if you would be
interested in any of the following:
Regular users of Bute Park were asked if they would be interested in
receiving information or becoming further involved in the management of the
park. A total of 270 (41.7%) respondents were keen to receive regular email
bulletins about Bute Park whist 109 (16.8%) were interested in becoming
further involved via the formally constituted ‘friends group’.
Receiving regular email bulletins to keep you up to date on news from Bute Park
Having the opportunity to become involved in the management and development
of local green spaces via a formally constituted 'friends group'.
No.
270
%
41.7
109
16.8
The Bute Park friends group now meets on a monthly basis. There are a
variety of ways in which new members can become involved. The activities
Comment [JCS45]: This data
has been captured & shared with
Friends Group to inform their
activities. Contact has been made
with the interested survey
participants & some are now
actively engaged.
that appealed most to those interested in becoming involved were
conservation activities (38.5%), horticultural classes (25.7%) and assisting
with the organisation of seasonal events (22.0%).
43
Conservation activities
Receiving horticultural classes in the new centre
Helping organise seasonal events
Craft workshops
Stewarding and help in organising community events
Helping out in the new education centre
Becoming an active committee member (Chair, Vice Chair, Treasurer,
Secretary etc.)
Undertaking and presenting historical research
Help giving historical tours and guided walks
Help making posters, leaflets etc
helping organise sports events in Bute Park
Arboretum interpretation and appreciation
Children’s activities
Other
No.
42
28
24
21
21
20
%
38.5
25.7
22.0
19.3
19.3
18.3
19
15
13
12
12
11
9
3
17.4
13.8
11.9
11.0
11.0
10.1
8.3
2.8
44
APPENDIX 2
Bute Park Users Survey
Dear Sir/Madam, we are from Cardiff Council and are asking visitors
to Bute Park to spare a few minutes to share with us their views and
experiences of the Park. We have a short questionnaire to complete
that shouldn't take more than ten minutes of your time and in return
we will enter you into a thank you prize draw to win £50 of high
street shopping vouchers.
0.a
Day

0.b

Tues

Wed
Thurs

Fri

Sat
Sun
Time of day

0.c
Mon
8-10am

10-12am

12-14pm

14-16pm
16-18pm
Interviewer
_____________________________________________________________________________
0.d
Do you: (tick all that apply)

0.e
Live in Cardiff

Work in Cardiff

Visiting the city for the
day

Visiting as part of a
longer trip
How did you travel to Bute Park today? (tick the option that relates to the major part of the journey)

On foot
Bicycle

Car
Train

Organised coach
Bus

Taxi
Other
If 'other' please specify
________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________
1.
On average how frequently do you use Bute Park? (Prompt if needed 'at this time of year')

2.
More than once a day
Daily
More than once a week

Less than once a month
Very occasionally
First time visitor
More than once a month
How do you usually visit Bute Park? (Please tick all that apply, if first time visitor, what type of group are
they in today?)

Alone
With partner
With children under 5 years
With children aged 5-10 years

With children aged over 10 years
With friends
Other
________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________
3.
What are your reasons for visiting Bute Park? (SHOWCARD A - Please tick all that apply)

Children's play
Exercise/sport
Dog walking
Short cut
Walking
Horticulture/arboriculture interest
Nature/bird watching
Meeting place
Sit and relax
Picnic/lunch break
Firework display
Concert/event
Fun run/marathon
Educational visit
Formal team sports i.e. football/rugby/cricket
Cycling
Photography
Other
________________________________________________________________________________
4.
Visitors to Bute Park use the paths for a variety of different things i.e. cycling, dog walking, walking,
jogging etc. How respectful do you feel visitors are of one another?

5.
Very respectful

Mostly respectful

Somewhat
disrespectful
Very disrespectful
Are there any additional comments that you would like to make about this?
________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________
6.
On a rating scale of 1 to 5 with 1 being 'poor' and 5 being 'excellent' how would you rate the
provision of the following services in Bute Park? (SHOWCARD B)
Car parking
Transport links
Sign posting
Labelling of the arboretum (tree
collection)
Lighting
Condition of paths
Accessibility for prams/wheelchairs
Toilet facilities
Provision for children
Provision for youth
Provision of special events
Provision of refreshments
Provision of seating
Provision of litter bins
Personal safety
Grounds maintenance
Formal floral display
Work of the park rangers
On site supervision and safety
Visitor information
Publicity and promotion
1
2
3
4
5
Don't know

7.
Bute Park is currently undergoing a £5.6 million restoration project, supported by a £3.1 million grant
from the Heritage Lottery Fund. This is to restore some important historic features within the park
as well as providing some new facilities. Are you aware of this project?

8.

No
Not sure
Do you feel that the park has changed in appearance over the past twelve months?

9.
Yes
Yes, it has improved

Yes, it has declined

No, it has stayed the
same
Don't know
In what way do you feel that it has improved or declined?
________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________
10.
The 21st of October saw the official launch of the new education centre in Bute Park
Are you aware of the new building?
Have you visited the site yet?
11.
No

If yes, on a rating scale of 1 to 5 with 1 being 'poor' and 5 being 'excellent' how would you rate the
education in terms of the following?
Quality of the building
Appropriateness of the facility
Cafe facilities
Public toilets
12.
Yes
1
2
3
4
5
Don't know

Are there any other comments that you would like to make about the education centre?
________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________
13.
This is the newly developed logo for Bute Park & Arboretum. Have you seen it before? (SHOWCARD
C)

14.
Yes

No

Don't know
Are there any comments that you would like to make about the logo?
________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________
15.
The east-west foot and cycle path from the Royal Welsh Collage of Music and Drama to the
Millennium Foot Bridge is currently open until 7pm as part of a pilot until 31st Dec.
Are you aware of this pilot?
Do you think that it is a good idea?
Yes
No
Don't know

16.
Why?
________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________
17.
An exit-only turn stile is to be installed at the Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama to provide an
appropriate exit for anyone who finds themselves locked in the park after hours.
Are you aware of this?
Do you think it is a good idea?
18.
Yes
No
Don't know

Which of the following do you associate with Bute Park? (SHOWCARD D- please tick all that apply)

Cardiff Castle
The Animal Wall
Arboretum (tree collection)
Dock feeder canal
Cooper's Field
Gorsedd Stones
Victorian landscaping/Andrew Pettigrew
Grade 1 listed historic landscape
Council plant nursery
Running events i.e. marathon/fun run
Mardi Gras
Concerts
Firework displays
Old Castle Mill
Blackweir bridge
Blackweir fish pass
Summerhouse
Piaggio (mobile catering run by the Summerhouse)
West Lodge
New Access Bridge
Herbaceous Border
Art/Sculpture
Out of the Woods Festival
Boat Stage (Aquabus)
Sports pitches i.e. football/rugby/cricket
RHS Show
Castle Mews
Is there anything else not listed that you associate with Bute Park?
________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________
19.
Do you know what this area of Bute Park is called? (SHOWCARD E)

Blackfriers
Friary
If other what?

Do not know

Other
________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________
20.
Looking at the picture again
Are you aware that it is a scheduled
ancient monument?
Are you aware that what remains
today is the Victorian interpretation of
a 13th century friary excavated in the
19th century by the third Marquess of
Bute?
Yes
No

The 'Out of the Woods Festival' is an annual event held during August. It is a free,
family orientated festival held in Coopers Field and themed around woodland
management and conservation.
21.

22.

No

Don't know

23.
Yes
Yes

No

Don't know
As we come towards the end, what do you think is the best thing about Bute Park?
________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________
And.....
24.
What do you think is the worst thing about Bute Park?
________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________
25.
Is there anything you wish to add that this survey has not allowed you to say regarding Bute Park?
________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________
26.
Bute Park has dedicated pages on Cardiff Council's website, www.cardiff.gov.uk/butepark
Are you aware of these pages?
Have you visited these pages?
27.
Yes
No
Unsure

Facebook is now a popular way to share information on a wide range of topics. Bute Park can also
now be found on facebook:
Are you a user of facebook?
Are you aware of Bute Park on
facebook?
Would you join Bute Park on
facebook?
Yes
No
Unsure

About You
Any data supplied by you on this form will be processed in accordance with Data Protection Act requirements
and in supplying it you consent to Cardiff Council processing the data for the purpose for which it is
supplied. All personal information provided will be treated in the strictest confidence and will only be used by
Cardiff Council or disclosed to others for a purpose permitted by law.
If there are any questions you would prefer not to answer please leave these blank.
28.
Are you male or female?

29.
Male
16-24

25-34

35-44

45-54

55-64

65+
Do you identify yourself as disabled?

31.

What was your age on your last birthday?

30.
Female
Yes

No
What is your ethnic group? Please select one from the dropdown list.

White - Welsh/English/Scottish/Northern
Irish/British
White - Irish
White - Gypsy or Irish Traveller
White - Any other white background (please
specify)
Mixed/Multiple Ethnic Groups - White and
Black Caribbean
Mixed/Multiple Ethnic Groups - White and
Black African
Mixed/Multiple Ethnic Groups - White & Asian
Mixed/Multiple Ethnic Groups - Any other
(please specify)
Asian/Asian British - Indian

Asian/Asian British - Bangladeshi

Asian/Asian British - Chinese

Asian/Asian British - Any other (please
specify)
Black/African/Caribbean/Black British - African
Black/African/Caribbean/Black British Caribbean
Black/African/Caribbean/Black British - Any
other (please specify)
Arab
Any other ethnic group (please specify)
Prefer not to say
Asian/Asian British - Pakistani
Please specify any other ethnic groups below:
_________________________________________________________________________
32.
What is your postcode? (we ask this question to enable us to identify the catchment area of users of Bute
Park)
________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________
33.
If you are a regular user of Bute Park please indicate if you would be interested in any of the
following:

Being entered into a free prize draw for £50 high street shopping vouchers
Receiving regular email bulletins to keep you up to date on news from Bute Park
Having the opportunity to become involved in the management and development of local green spaces via a
formally constituted 'friends group'.
34.
The Bute Park friends group now meets on a monthly basis. There are a variety of ways in which
new members can become involved, would any of the following be of interest to you? (SHOW
SHOWCARD D)

Becoming an active committee member (Chair,
Vice Chair, Treasurer, Secretary etc.)
Helping organise seasonal events
Receiving horticultural classes in the new centre
Children’s activities
Conservation activities
Helping out in the new education centre
Help making posters, leaflets etc

Craft workshops

Help giving historical tours and guided walks

Undertaking and presenting historical research
Arboretum interpretation and appreciation
Stewarding and help in organising community
events
helping organise sports events in Bute Park
Other
If other please specify
________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________
Thank you for your interest - To enable us to contact you further
please supply the following details
35.
Name
________________________________________________________________________________
36.
Address
________________________________________________________________________________
37.
Postcode
________________________________________________________________________________
38.
Email
________________________________________________________________________________
39.
Telephone
________________________________________________________________________________
Thank you for your time