Residents of Rhiwbina Garden Village in Cardiff are voicing their discontent over newly installed bollards they say are spoiling their cherished community green. Cardiff Council has added bollards at Y Groes, part of a broader regeneration scheme, to prevent vehicles from damaging the grass. However, locals feel this move disrupts the village’s open and welcoming character.
A change.org petition has emerged, urging the council to rethink their decision. Residents argue that the dense bollard arrangement transforms the space from open and informal to enclosed and controlled. The green is not just any green but a hub of village life, hosting elements of the Rhiwbina Festival and even featured in a Doctor Who Christmas special.
Local advocate Natalie Drury-Styles shared her thoughts: “This isn’t about protecting the green, which we all support. It’s about preserving the original vision of the Garden Village – its simplicity and uncluttered charm.” She voiced disappointment over the lack of consultation and the significant visual impact of the bollards, saying, “What’s been installed feels out of keeping with that character.”
According to the council, the bollards are part of existing measures and have been thoughtfully spaced to reduce visual impact. They assured that consultation on the project took place last year, with residents around the Rhiwbina high street informed via leaflets to facilitate feedback. Despite this, the petition has already gathered over 200 signatures. Will the council listen to the village’s call to action? Only time will tell!