We still remember Zygofolies, the Nice amusement park located on the Var plain. Well, Gilles Roche was one of its animators back then. Since then, time has passed and the Nice park has passed away, much to Gilles’ regret. But no matter…
After having hosted a large number of major local events like the Nice Carnival, the Telethon, or the Associations Meeting for years, Gilles Roche’s little idea had time to grow and, thanks to the benevolent sun, to bloom into a beautiful and splendid flower in the form of a Nice leisure park.
On the upcoming 10th of July, this new playground will open its doors, or rather its giant innovative inflatable structures in the region. Moreover, as a lover of his city and his land, Gilles Roche has imagined his attractions in the colors of his city.
So here we find Gilles, a few days before the opening of a park he has dreamed of for years and which, in three days, will become a pleasant reality.
Interview with Gilles Roche
Director of Nice Kids
Nice Premium: Gilles Roche, is Nice North going to change starting July 10?
Gilles Roche: On the upcoming 10th of July, at the Kozuck Ferry stadium (in front of the Ray stadium), a leisure base will open, entirely made up of unprecedented and extraordinary inflatable structures in the region. Its theme will be “Nissartitude”. With, as a bonus, the installation of the largest structure in the southeast region: 25 m long, 5 m wide, and 12 m high.
A true oasis in the heart of Nice — with a tramway nearby, bus lines, Nice North highway exit, and a large parking area available — Nice Kids will meet everyone’s expectations.
NP: How was this project, now a reality, born?
GR: The idea, developed in collaboration with the sports service and the local delegation of the city of Nice, is to welcome children in an outdoor, fun, and secure sports space during the summer. To welcome children from day camps, those who cannot go on vacation, and simply those who are looking for an activity close to home.
The price will be 10 euros per child aged 4 to 12 for unlimited access… And free for accompanying parents with an opening from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.
NP: A play and adventure park in the middle of the city, it’s not common?
GR: We wanted to import a fun space into the city. We are fortunate to live in a very sunny region and the opportunity to make the most of it was obvious.
At the same time, we have invested for our additional activities renting festive equipment, in the purchase of unprecedented inflatable structures. We designed them focusing on a Pirate theme (a great classic for children) which we transformed into a Nice version…
Thus all the characters are in the colors of traditional Nice costumes and the attractions represent known places from our city… Slide in the Promenade des Anglais, waterfall from the castle in a mini slide…
NP: Are there any other projects in Gilles Roche’s pipeline?
GR: To make the park permanent in the region is my priority. To create an entertainment troupe dedicated to the park environment. To develop additional workshops.
In short, to revive a real park in Nice.
NP: And, finally, Gilles Roche will be a happy man on July 10, if…?
GR: …If the public meets this challenge. If new ideas contribute to its influence… to its development… If everyone enjoys themselves…
