A PUBLIC park near Blackwood which was at risk of being sold for development has been saved after a council U-turn.

Caerphilly County Borough Council have withdrawn its sale of the park by Heol Pit-Y-Ceiliogod in Cwmgelli after receiving a 82-name petition against the proposal last month. As well as a petition, 10 letters of objection were received in response to a council notice located at the park’s entrance about the consultation over the green space.

Residents in the Cwmgelli area feared it would be closed for redevelopment which would have left them with a trip of more than a mile to the nearest public park on Sunnybank Road, Blackwood.

Helen Parsons, of Lon Pennant, who lives opposite the park, said: “We need to keep this green area for residents’ recreational purposes. It is a park which is also well used by elderly residents for walking their dogs and younger children playing football and other sports in a safe environment.

“I acknowledge the council trying to claw in funds in any way they can but a green area to get out and about is so important to everyone’s health and wellbeing.”

The land has been a public amenity since 1972 but has been without climbing frames since the council removed them around 10 years ago. Residents are interested in turning the park into a village green to prevent any future development possibilities.

Blackwood Cllr Nigel Dix said: “I’m pleased that the council have withdrawn their proposal to sell the park. It is vital that we retain these community assets, which provide residents with a safe space that can be enjoyed by the whole community.

“Officers at the council argued that the park was not being used, however, this assumption was not supported by the parks department and the residents of Cwmgelli who thankfully use and value the park.”

Cabinet member Cllr David Hardacre said: “We appreciate this area of land is valued by the local community – the council has listened to comments and objections and has determined that, at this present time, the land will remain in use for the public. We trust this will be welcomed by the local community.”