Joel James MS, Senedd Member for South Wales Central has this week asked the Welsh Government for a statement regarding concerts being held at Blackweir Fields in Cardiff.
The Member stated that many residents are increasingly concerned that public green spaces meant for the benefit of the community have been allocated by councils for activities they weren't originally designed for, namely festivals and concerts.
The Member highlighted that:
These events not only restrict public access, especially for grass-roots sports clubs, but also bring large crowds that can damage the local environment and leave the area in a fragile state.
Joel highlighted Blackweir Fields in Cardiff as an example - a grade I listed public green space, which Cardiff Council is using to host a series of concerts from the 27th June to 21st July, during a time when residents are most likely to use it.
Speaking after his Chamber contribution, Joel said:
Many residents have reached out to me expressing concerns about limited public access, large crowds, damage to the local environment, and the condition in which the fields are left afterwards.
Last week, I questioned the Welsh Government regarding the appropriateness of a 10-foot wall being erected around a public park by Cardiff Council, and I also asked for a government statement on the proper use of public spaces for festivals and events.
To watch Joel's statement in full, please click here.
