Pitches group lobbies Secretary of State for support

The Community Group bidding to create more sports pitches and outdoor space in Welshpool has written to the Secretary of State for Wales to enlist his support after recent comments he made in favour of the project.

During his visit to the town earlier this month, Simon Hart MP, told MyWelshpool that a bid like Welshpool’s should be “at the top of the in-tray” for future funding after missing out on the latest round of the UK Government’s Levelling Up Fund.

His comments have heartened the local group which has been campaigning for replacement outdoor space to be provided following the swallowing up of Salop Road playing fields for the new primary school.

“The UK Government has just published details of a Community Ownership Fund which appears to allow community groups to bid for funds to takeover assets for community benefits,” said Paul Coackley, who heads the community group made up of sports clubs and other interested parties in the town.

“However, it appears to rule out community assets which have been lost such as the Salop Road Fields. So, we have asked if our plans to replace the Salop Road Fields are eligible for a bid. If not, what funds can we bid for?”

The group will also be writing to Russell George AM in his capacity as shadow Minister for Health and Social Care to ascertain his views on the impact of the loss of the fields on the well being of future generations.

PICTURE (by Phil Blagg Photography): Simon Hart MP (right) made positive remarks about Welshpool's bid for more open spaces and playing fields during his visit to the town with local MP, Craig Williams.