Decision details

Accompanied by a PowerPoint presentation, the Director of Prosperity and Development presented the report, which sought approval from the Cabinet Committee on progressing the potential redevelopment opportunity for an event space within Ynysangharad War Memorial Park which will support the delivery of major events and to bid for funding from the Visit Wales Brilliant Basics Programme.

Members were informed, that to maximise the space available to host events at Ynysangharad War Memorial Park, the Council appointed consultants to produce a feasibility report on the potential to introduce an Events Space at the large green area adjacent to the bridge access from the Llys Cadwyn development. The Director advised that the area had not been used for some

time and offered little amenity value due to the undulating topography designed for golf. It was explained that an existing but under-utilised green space occupied much of the top corner adjacent to the footbridge. The space had the potential to facilitate an events area and community gatherings that could be enjoyed by all.

The Director drew Members’ attention to Section 5 of the report, where the event proposals, including cost and design, were outlined.

The Director advised that in order to support the delivery of the project, the Visit Wales Brilliant Basics Fund was a potential funding source. The purpose of Brilliant Basics was to deliver basic small-scale tourism infrastructure improvements across all of Wales to ensure that visitors have a positive and memorable experience throughout all aspects of their stay.

The Director clarified that the report before Members was to seek their views regarding an Expression of Interest and that should the Council be successful, further reports would be brought forward for Cabinet’s consideration.

The Chair thanked the officer for the detailed presentation and recognised that it was the Trustees’ duty to ensure the best practical outcomes for Ynysangahard Park and for the residents. The Chair welcomed the proposal and was assured by the Director’s presentation, that officers would do their best to ensure a minimal number of trees would be disrupted, should it be agreed. The Chair spoke of the Council’s ambition to bring larger events to Pontypridd and felt that the space would be extremely beneficial.

The Cabinet Member for Environment and Leisure was in favour of the repurposing of the land and of officers’ bid for funding. The Cabinet Member commented that the area would not only bring external events to the area but would be beneficial for local groups and schools for smaller events.

The Cabinet Member for Climate Change and Corporate Services was also in support of the proposal and reiterated earlier comments. The Cabinet Member noted the size of the space and that it was currently underutilised.

The Chair thanked the Director for the report and looked forward to future updates.

The Sub-Committee RESOLVED:

1.    To consider the concept design proposal presented in the report and to instruct officers to proceed with its further development and bid for funding from the Visit Wales Brilliant Basics Programme.