As we reflect on 6 months since Canolfan Calon Taf swung open its doors to the public, it's hard not to feel a swell of pride and gratitude for what we've accomplished together. We are profoundly grateful for the funders of this project; the National Lottery Heritage Fund, Welsh Government Transforming Towns and Rhondda Cynon Taf County Borough Council. Kicking off construction work in January 2022, our vision was clear: to create a space where the community could connect with its heritage, learn, and enjoy a variety of activities. By August 6, 2023, in time to celebrate the park's centenary, we were ready to welcome everyone into a space buzzing with life, learning, and the celebration of our shared history.
A Hub of Activity
Canolfan Calon Taf quickly became a hive of activity, offering a broad spectrum of events and classes that catered to all ages and interests. For the younger members of our community, outdoor crafts, dance workshops, and school history walks provided a fun and educational way to engage with the park's rich history. Adults and seniors weren't left out, with classes such as "All About Me" focusing on mindfulness and wellbeing, vocational courses such as First Aid and Food Hygiene, and Art for Wellbeing sessions that offered a creative outlet and a chance to unwind.
The revival of the bandstand as a venue for cultural events brought a new vibrancy to the park. Local choirs, a strings duo, and performances by local bands and soloists filled the air with music, drawing crowds and fostering a sense of community. Moreover, the development of interpretation boards around the bandstand, Sunken Garden, National Lido of Wales, and other significant sites within the park has enriched visitors' understanding of their heritage, linking the past with the present in a meaningful way.
To mark the centenary of the park, we released a history booklet that summarized its rich past, making it available for free on our website. This gesture was not just about celebrating a milestone but also about sharing the story of a place that has been a backdrop to many lives and events in our community.
Looking Forward
To all who have walked through our doors, joined in our activities, or shared a piece of their history with us, we say thank you. Your participation and support have been instrumental in making Canolfan Calon Taf a success. Here's to many more years of making history together.
For those interested in participating in future events, classes, or wishing to donate memories, please reach out via email at CalonTaf@rctcbc.gov.uk or drop by our office for a chat. Your story is part of our story, and we can't wait to hear it.
Posted on Friday 15th March 2024