Here are some more backbench questions from this month’s full council meeting.
Valleys regeneration strategy “an opportunity to improve community facilities”
Cllr. Maxine Lewis (Lab, Garw Valley) asked for an update on regeneration in the valleys.
Cabinet Member for Community Safety & Wellbeing, Cllr. Neelo Farr (Lab, Porthcawl East Central), noted the recently finalised plans for the Shared Prosperity Fund. This includes grants to renovate commercial and residential properties in the valleys.
In a follow-up question, Cllr Della Hughes (Ind, Ogmore Vale) welcomed the regeneration strategy, adding that critical to work alongside communities and community councils. The second highest priority identified by residents in Ogmore Valley – following a survey – is the provision of parks and sports facilities.
A recent public meeting endorsed a proposal being developed (in part) by Ogmore Valley Community Council to redevelop sites in Ogmore Vale and Nantymoel – including multi-use games areas. Will the regeneration strategy support current and future proposals such as these?
Cabinet Member for Housing, Planning & Regeneration Cllr. Rhys Goode (Lab, Nantymoel), was keen to work with all stakeholders and community groups to promote growth and renewal of businesses and public spaces in the valleys as part of the regeneration strategy.
Although play/sport isn’t strictly part of that plan, he’s told officers his hopes that other policies will be brought together at the same time to help deliver new facilities.
No money for a splash park, but the first phase of playground upgrades to start soon
Cllr. Ian Williams (Ind, Oldcastle) asked why Bridgend Council hasn’t provided a splash pad when all neighbouring authorities had at least one, with Rhondda Cynon Taf having two.
Could the council offer assurances that by the end of this term, they could provide families with one so they don’t need to travel out of the borough to use one?
Cabinet Member for Climate Change & Environment, Cllr. John Spanswick (Lab, Brackla West Central) “loves the idea” of a splash pad. However, the council’s current priority is to refurbish existing play areas. It would be foolish to pay for additional facilities that haven’t been budgeted for yet.
A tender for the first phase of the playground upgrades – worth £1.5million and covering 22 sites during 2023-24 – has gone out. The ones in most need of updates will be prioritised first of all.
