Port Talbot Memorial Park residents group begins to take shape

A campaign group set up by users of a popular Memorial Park in Port Talbot has called for improvements to be made to facilities there and for help so that local people can play an active role in its future.

The “Friends of the Talbot Memorial Park” met recently with over 20 people attending including myself and Cllr John Rogers, as representatives of the adjacent ward of Taibach.

Issues raised by residents included the need for more information on park opening hours, litter left around the playing fields after sports fixtures and repairs to damaged fencing.

The Talbot Memorial Park is well loved locally and a real jewel in the crown right here on our doorsteps. Although the Friends Group is very much in its initial stages, it has been refreshing to see so many volunteers coming forward to lend a helping hand. We are now looking to give the park some tender loving care and to develop its existing facilities as well as making it even more well used by the surrounding communities.

A letter has now been sent to Neath Port Talbot County Borough Council, on behalf of the group, listing the concerns of park users asking for action to be taken to address them.

Discussions so far have been very productive. As well as the routine day-to-day issues highlighted by members, we are also keen to take a longer-term perspective on the future of the park and on what local people would like to see there.

There is great potential for the tennis courts area and the bandstand to be brought back into active use. We would also like to see neighbouring schools be encouraged to play a role in making the park a more attractive place for families and to go.