Plea made to save playing fields

At least 19 playing fields are under threat from development across Wales

People in Wales are being called on to join in the fight to save their local playing fields from disappearing.

At least 19 open areas across the country are currently under threat from development according to Plaid Cymru AM Dai Lloyd and MEP colleague Jill Evans. In a bid to save the fields from destruction, they want everyone to help by taking part in a countrywide consultation.

They highlighted their plight as part of the annual European Day of Parks.

Mr Lloyd, who represents the South Wales West constituency, is trying to introduce a law placing a duty on local authorities to consult people in local communities before selling any playing fields for development.

His proposal has now reached the stage of being open for public consultation.

Threatened playing fields Aberystwyth - Llety Parc Cardiff - Llanishen RFC training area, LPA Llanishen Reservoir, SCW Rumney Recreation Ground, Snowden Road Playing Field and Western Leisure Centre Cwmbran - Brookfield Primary School and Land near Burtons Factory Dinas Powys - St Cyres Lower School Flintshire - Willow Park Merthyr Tydfil - County Field Monmouthshire - Caldicot Comp School Newtown - Newtown High School and Town Hall Park Swansea - Swansea Recreation Ground Talbot Green - Lanelay Hall Playing Field Penarth - St Cyres School Pontypool - Trevethin Comprehensive School Wrexham - Groves School

He said it is vital that anyone with an interest in the issue takes part to ensure their voices are heard.

"Plaid recognises that playing fields are a valuable community resource," he said.

"In an age when we are being encouraged to do more sport and physical exercise, playing fields offer a free and easy access to physical activity.

"I have been overwhelmed by the passion and determination shown by the people and communities fighting to save their local playing fields."

European Day of Parks event is held every year in a bid to raise awareness about protecting open areas ranging from small leisure areas through to larger national parks.

Greatest threats

Ms Evans, Plaid's deputy president, said while national parks are of great importance, we should never ignore the positive impact local green play areas can have on people's lives.

"As a nation, we have to fight to keep these playing fields which are becoming more and more rare," she said.

"One of the greatest threats to these areas is from development and often, we realise how valuable they are only once they're gone.

"I would urge everyone to take part in the consultation that is being held regarding Dai Lloyd's measure as it's something that we have to act upon now before it's too late."