Nearly 1,000 sign petition opposing proposal by Rhiwbina RFC
A PETITION to stop floodlights being installed in Caedelyn Park in Rhiwbina has almost reached 1,000 signatures.
The proposal to install the lights on a meadow in the park was submitted by Rhiwbina RFC in July, but residents say they were not consulted by the club.
“The first we heard of it was the end of August. The council had put up a piece of A4 in the park which one of my neighbours saw,” said Garry Edmiston-Taylor, 54, who lives on Caedelyn Road near the proposed site.
“We are extremely concerned. Floodlights change the nature of the park. It’s the one part of the park that is not given over to sport. It will have a huge impact on neighbours and the wider neighbourhood.”
The area was last year designated a “one-cut” grassed area by Cardiff Council, as part of its initiative to encourage pollinators. This step was encouraged by environmental campaign groups, including Friends of the Earth and The Wildlife Trust.
“Meadow areas such as those in Caedelyn Park, and the Northern Meadows, are crucial to the survival of many insect species. Unmown areas, where a multitude of plant species thrive, is vital habitat for insects, and the bird species who depend on them,” said Nerys Lloyd-Pierce, chair of Cardiff Civic Society.
“Cardiff Council has an extremely poor record on green issues. Despite declaring a Climate Emergency, the local authority has done precious little to act on that, and continues to allow the erosion of green space.”
Cabinet member for culture and leisure, councillor Peter Bradbury said: “Every year we receive significantly more requests from residents for grass to be cut in their local parks and green spaces than we do to let these areas grow wild, but given the decline in pollinators which our food supplies depend on, it is important that the council does the right thing and plays a part in helping to reverse the trend.
“These new sites will take time to flourish and establish themselves, but over time they will provide valuable habitats for wildlife as well as bringing colour and wildlife to these areas.”
As part of the consultation period, a petition with 60 signatures was sent by residents to Cardiff Council. There has since been an electronic petition set up, which now has over 870 signatures.
Despite opposition, Rhiwbina RFC said the new floodlights would have no negative effect on the area. The pitch would be used for training only, and the floodlights for around 140 hours per year.
Dave Hobbs, vice-chairman of Rhiwbina RFC, said: “The area has not been a meadow for very long, and it doesn’t make a lot of sense. By using the field, we will be benefitting the children of Cardiff. The presence of our club in the park also deters any antisocial behaviour, which benefits the local community.”
In the planning application, the club said all activity would cease by 9.30pm, as with their other pitches. They claimed there would be no impact on biodiversity.
This proposal will now go to the planning committee set up to consider applications of public importance where a vote will be held.
Jayne Cowan, councillor for Rhiwbina, said: “We will be going to committee representing the views of residents who use the park, but we must also consider the rugby club. There has been a lot of discussion about this area and it has become a very emotive issue.”
A Cardiff Council spokesperson said: “The council is unable to comment on live planning applications, as we are the planning authority. Any comment that is given could be seen as predetermining the process going forwards.”
It is not yet known on what date the committee will be held.
