Bridgend County Borough Council's plans to convert Coychurch Playing Fields into a nature park, citing biodiversity reasons, contradict the policies of the Welsh Government. These policies advocate for children's increased physical activities to mitigate obesity problems. By converting the playing fields into a nature reserve, undeniably, we are depriving our children of avenues to participate in sports and active living, thereby promoting sedentary behaviour, which is directly linked to obesity and other health risks.

With a stark 28% of children in Wales reportedly overweight, and 14.5% of them classified as obese (Public Health Wales, 2019), it goes without saying that we require more—not fewer—playing fields. Uniquely, promoting children's health and wellbeing must be a society's paramount priority, and manifestly, making a space for nature reserves does not call for sacrificing the children's playing grounds. There are many alternatives within the borough where a new nature reserve could be located, but the options for sports pitches are limited.

This petition asks the Bridgend County Borough Council to reconsider their decision and include alternate locations for biodiversity enhancements, without depriving our younger generation of vital play and sporting opportunities. Please, sign the petition to voice your support for this critical matter.