Oldford residents call for new play park

Residents from the largest housing estate in the area are asking Welshpool Town Council to back them in their bid for a new playpark.

The large play area at Oldford has fallen into a state of disrepair, with the Residents Association handing responsibility back to ClwydAlyn who manage the estate.

It means there are only two small areas in use suitable for Under 5s, meaning children have to cross the busy main road to access the playground at Maesydre instead.

At tonight’s Town Council Operations & Development Meeting, councillors will be told that the estate raised £46,000 “many years ago” which “we did not need to do” but is now left with little year.

The letter from the Oldford Residents Association points out that the estate is the responsibility of both Powys County Council and ClwydAlyn but they want Town Council support and funding to create a new facility.

Cllr Phil Pritchard has been calling for this in the chamber for several years, but tonight it will be placed in front of the committee for official debate.

The letter states: “The absence of a safe and accessible play space has had a significant impact on local families, leaving children without a crucial area for outdoor recreation, social interaction and physical activity.”

Welshpool Town Council is responsible for several play parks across the town, but could be hamstrung by financial constraints in funding a new one at Oldford.