Residents in the village of Blaengarw are being called upon to share their views in a major community consultation that will directly influence the future development of a cherished local green space and its surrounding facilities.
Shaping a Vital Community Asset
Launched this week, the comprehensive survey seeks local opinions on Parc Calon Lân as a community green space. It also presents proposals for enhancing the existing Pump Track and the Mountain Bike Trails located above the park. Furthermore, the consultation introduces early-stage ideas for new Activity Hubs designed to support community use, wellbeing, education, and local micro-businesses.
Councillor Maxine Lewis, the Chair of Garw Valley Community Council, emphasised the importance of resident input. "Parc Calon Lân is an important space for Blaengarw, used in many different ways by people of all ages," she said. "This survey is about listening to residents and making sure any future plans are shaped by local views, needs and priorities."
Survey Details and Prize Draw Incentive
The questionnaire asks how often people use the park, what they value most about it, and identifies any barriers to more frequent use. It also invites detailed feedback on potential improvements to the Pump Track and Mountain Bike Trails, covering aspects like maintenance, safety, accessibility, and opportunities for families and beginners.
A significant part of the survey focuses on initial concepts for two small, single-storey Activity Hubs, proposed for an underused area at the park's edge. The community's response will be crucial in determining whether these plans progress.
The survey is available both online and in paper format. Completed paper questionnaires can be returned to several local outlets:
- Blaengarw Post Office
- Blaengarw Primary School (at Reception)
- The Garw Café
- The William Trigg Community Centre
Returns are accepted during each premises' normal operating hours. As an incentive, everyone who completes the questionnaire can choose to enter a prize draw to win shopping vouchers.
Local Business Support and Tourism Benefits
The initiative has garnered support from local enterprises who recognise the wider benefits of investing in community assets. Mair Anthony, proprietor of the Garw Valley Café, voiced her strong backing.
"We are very happy to support Garw Valley Community Council’s efforts to continue to improve Parc Calon Lan," she stated. "The park is well used by residents, and it helps to attract visitors that spend money locally. The more we can do to support tourism, local enterprise and the development of much-needed community facilities, the better!"
The consultation is being delivered by Gareth Kiddie Associates on behalf of Garw Valley Community Council. It is supported by the Bridgend Reach team and funded by the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund.
The consultation will remain open until mid-February. Residents wishing to participate online can visit the dedicated survey link: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/ParcCalonLan. For more information, contact Gareth Kiddie via email: gareth@gka.org.uk.
