Decision details

The Head of Leisure, Parks & Countryside provided Members with an overview of his report which proposed  the development of a Council wide plan for full public access to artificial turf pitches (ATP) and 3G pitches with a common pricing policy.

Members were advised that through a collaborative approach between Leisure and Parks with 21^st Century Schools, the Council has invested in the development of 3G pitches over the last 3 years, committing to achieve its aim of every resident to live within a 3-mile radius of a 3G pitch. The Head of Leisure, Parks & Countryside proceeded to advise Members of the proposal to develop a  public access plan for ATP and 3G pitches across the County Borough.  The proposal would ensure that schools would access the facilities for curriculum and extra-curriculum sessions (8am – 5pm) with full public access from 5pm on weeknights and over the weekend (9am – 5pm on both days). 

The Officer further discussed the pricing policy as detailed within the report discussing the rationale for the pricing policy going forward. To offset any potential concerns from the users the Head of Service proposed that the revised prices be introduced from April 2019 and be frozen until April 2021.

The Cabinet Member Environment, Leisure & Heritage Services referenced the importance the Council places on the Health & Well Being of its residents, commenting on the proposals within the report of improving access for all residents.  The Cabinet Member spoke on the facilities available and the possibility for residents to continue with their sporting activities on the 3G pitches regardless of the weather.  She added that full public access alongside streamlined administration procedures would ensure that access to top quality sports facilities are maximised by those that live, work and visit Rhondda Cynon Taf.

The Cabinet Member for Education & Young People welcomed the proposals although commented on the concerns raised by some schools in respect of the income and potential administration burden.  The Cabinet Member clarified that the administration of the pitches would be taken forward by the Council and that any financial impact would be minimised.

The Leader and Deputy Leader also spoke positively on the proposals and the importance of ensuring the provisions are accessible for the schools and the whole communities.  The Leader referenced the efficiency savings that would be achieved through the Council administration of the proposals.

It was RESOLVED:

1.    To approve the proposed full public access plan alongside the common pricing policy for ATP and 3G pitches as set out in Section 5 of the report.

2.    That Leisure and Parks, with 21^st Century Schools, continually engage with Secondary Schools in the development and implementation of the proposed full public access plan and common pricing policy.