Albert Road Primary School Engagement

📅 Date: 3 October 2024

📍 Location of Engagement: Albert Road Primary School, Penarth

🗣️ Who we spoke to: Year 5 pupils

Facilitators: Vale of Glamorgan Council Placemaking Officers

🙋 Type of engagement:
Informal one-to-one conversations using questionnaires to gather views on what pupils like about Penarth, what they don’t like, and what they would improve.

🚀 Emerging Themes

  • What they like: Penarth Pier was the most popular feature, followed by their school (Albert Primary), Belle Vue Park, and local sweet shops (Umpa Lumpa). Parks, Cosmeston, and community spirit were also mentioned.
  • What they don’t like: Most said “nothing,” but some mentioned litter, uneven pavements, Penarth Leisure Centre, private schools, and abandoned shops.
  • Improvements suggested:
    • More parks/playgrounds and better play equipment
    • Waterpark and splash facilities
    • More bins and less litter
    • Diverse shops (Primark, frozen yoghurt shop, bubble tea, McDonald’s, KFC, Home Bargains)
    • Activity areas for fun (soft play, skate park, dance area)
    • Cleaner public toilets and improved pavements
    • Eco-friendly spaces and disability access

💬 Comments

“Penarth Pier – it’s the best thing in town.”

“Belle Vue Park is great – we need more parks like this.”

“Not enough play equipment in parks.”

“We need a waterpark and more places to have fun.”

“Too many abandoned shops – town needs modernising.”

“Add a frozen yoghurt shop and Primark!”

📢 Summary

Year 5 pupils told us how much they enjoy Penarth’s pier, parks, and their school. They would love to see more fun and inclusive spaces that reflect the needs of young people.

Their priorities include:

  • Improving local parks with modern play equipment

  • Introducing water-based attractions for families and children

  • Expanding the variety of shops and activities aimed at younger residents

While most pupils had few complaints, some raised concerns about litter, uneven pavements, and the lack of modern facilities.

Overall, their feedback highlights a strong desire for:

  • Vibrant, family-friendly spaces

  • Affordable leisure options

  • A cleaner, safer, and more welcoming town for children and families

This input will help shape plans to make Penarth even more exciting and inclusive for the next generation.