We call for Cardiff Council to bring about an immediate stop to the construction of the planned access road along the north side of Roath Recreation Ground (planning project reference [TBI]) and to any associated works that either

 1) threaten the health of the natural environment along the perimeter of the Rec,

2) prevent the reinstatement of the four full-sized sports pitches formerly on the recreation ground,

3) undermine the character and history of the recreation ground and surrounding area.

We further call for Cardiff Council planning committee to conduct a full and effective consultation on the “updated”  construction plans for this project with stakeholders including but not limited to the protective bodies Fields in Trust and CADW and  local residents, schools, sports clubs and business users of the recreation ground.

We the undersigned wish to express deep concern about the current changes being made by the Council to our well loved community facilities at Roath Park. 

We feel very strongly that:
1. Community consultation and engagement on the proposals was very poor, and the views and input of local citizens have not been sought or taken into account in the design; and
2. The proposals do not provide a balanced and proportionate solution that improves cycling facilities whilst also protecting the continued enjoyment of the recreation areas, the valuable biodiversity and heritage in the park, community safety and neighbourhood permeability.

We therefore insist on AN IMMEDIATE STOP to the works so that community views can shape  appropriate design modifications, delivering a more balanced scheme that preserves the environment and community amenities on the recreation grounds and can move forward with community support.

Areas of particular concern for us include, but are not limited to:
- unjustified and unnecessary loss of sports pitches
- over-engineered and inappropriate hard surfaces and lighting
- unjustified and unnecessary closure of Alder Road with no consideration of its current and future use
- unacceptable loss of valuable mature trees to facilitate unnecessary additional footpaths

We feel it is likely that relatively modest design amendments could address many of these issues and want Cardiff council to work with us to address these issues NOW!

UPDATE (22 JUNE): The contractors have published a statement saying that there will be no access road but workers on site have reported that they are constructing a path of some sort along the route show on the plan.  Given the lack of proper communication as to what is being built and what the effect will be on the pitches and the environment of the rec. the petition is continuing and will be presented to the council at their meeting in July.