A CALL for improved sports facilities in Pucklechurch has been kicked into touch – for now.
Resident Margaret Fortune is campaigning for a multi-use games area (MUGA), which she says would benefit people of all ages.
She presented her initial research, which suggested putting a MUGA on the village recreation field or the St Aldams play area, to the parish council for discussion at its October meeting.
Councillors said they would welcome such a facility in the village but regretfully did not think the Rec or any of the other play areas owned by the parish council would be suitable.
Chair Gail Boyle suggested that the campaigners approach South Gloucestershire Council or other landowners to see if they had a site that could be made available.
Vice-chair Rick Dunning said: “It would be excellent to have a range of facilities within the parish but sadly we have not got available or suitable land – and resources are tight.”
A report to the council outlined potential pros and cons, in particular proximity to homes and impact on the conservation area.
Margaret put together her detailed proposals following surveys that showed many villagers felt there were not enough facilities for young people in Pucklechurch. She said the village, with a population of more than 3,000, was poorly served compared with smaller places such as Iron Acton.
MUGAs can be used by people of all ages and abilities for multiple sports including netball, tennis and pickleball.
Speaking at the parish council meeting, Margaret said she believed the benefits of a MUGA would outweigh the obstacles and urged members to agree to exploring the feasibility of raising funds for one.
Pucklechurch Parish Council is responsible for the play areas on the Rec, at St Aldams Drive, Eagle Crescent, Parkfield and Shortwood.
It recently upgraded the Eagle Crescent equipment, has installed a new roundabout on the Rec and will be improving the swings, as well as improving drainage on the sports fields.
Most of the wooden play equipment at St Aldams has reached the end of its life, so the council is looking at possible replacements.
It intends to organise an engagement session at the community centre soon to show some possible options.
The council also agreed to establish a youth advisory group to ensure that it took account of the views of young people.
Margaret told the Voice that if any residents would like to join her campaign or view her proposal, they can contact her at margaret_elson@msn.com.