Council to scrap 75 sports pitches increase after backlash
A planned 75 per cent price increase for the hire of sports pitches and pavilions across Caerphilly county borough has been reconsidered by the council's cabinet.
The cabinet met on Wednesday, May 21, to consider a report which outlined a revised set of costs for outdoor sports facilities, significantly lower than originally anticipated.
The council has 'responded positively to the feedback from the community' according to Councillor Sean Morgan.
He said the feedback 'clearly told us that the increased costs could have a significant impact on grassroots sport across the county borough.'
He said: "Therefore, we have developed a revised pricing structure which places the council at the average point for adult fees when compared to neighbouring local authorities.
"We will also maintain a position whereby fees in the youth, junior and mini age groups are well below the average of other local authorities."
The cabinet will now consider a revised approach to the original 75 per cent increase.
It will be relating to outdoor sports facilities like grass sports pitches - football, rugby and cricket pitches, but not artificial 3G pitches.
Councillor Chris Morgan, cabinet member responsible for leisure, added: "I'm sure the community will welcome this news, which demonstrates we are willing to listen to feedback and respond accordingly.
"We have a 10-year strategy to get more people, more active, more often and our outdoor facilities are a key part of this plan."
He said the revised pricing structure will support clubs and organisations to continue the 'excellent work they carry out across the county borough.'
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