Residents back Pontypool Park
Torfaen residents have shown their overwhelming support for Pontypool Park and are pleased with the facilities it provides, according to new figures.
A consultation exercise with Torfaen residents, conducted by the Council, revealed that a massive 77 per cent of respondents rated the park as excellent or good.
Participants, who filled out forms on the back of May's edition of Torfaen Talks or on the Council's website, were also impressed with a wide-range of facilities in the grounds. These included the Active Living Centre, events, walking routes and gardens.
Councillor John Cunningham, Executive Member for Operational Services, said: "Whilst only 128 people responded to the survey, I was pleased that feedback was largely positive, although we recognise, as we have stated previously, that there are some weaknesses which were also highlighted in the survey."
Through the consultation, people were asked to list up to three improvements they would make to the park. Common themes included cleaning up the lakes and ponds, improving car parking and organising more events. To help shape the future of the park, a Pontypool Park Users' Group will be formed. The proposal received overwhelming support through the consultation, with 86 per cent voting for the idea.
Pontypool Ward Councillor, Cllr Fred Wildgust said: "I am happy that residents have been listened to and action will be taken as a result of the Save Pontypool Park petition and the consultation. The Council is taking residents comments seriously and their views will be built into the future plans for the Park."
The Council aims to set up the group, which will give people the chance to air their views, early in the new year.
"We welcome the idea of a Pontypool Park Users' Group and we look forward to giving people more of a chance to have their say," said Councillor Cunningham.
Cllr Cunningham added: "We have always recognised that the park is a massive asset and would in no way jeopardise its future. There has always been an ongoing plan to improve the park which has been drawn up in partnership with the Heritage Lottery Fund and now people's suggestions will slot into these plans. Pontypool Park is known as the People's Park so we always welcome their contribution."
More information about the setting up of the group will be released shortly.
A full copy of the consultation results| are available to download here.