Group's delight (From Barry And District News)

Group's delight

THE BARRY Citizens' Action Group (BCAG) is stressing the need for locals to keep up to date with developments at the crumbling town hall building.

Campaigners are delighted at the saving of the King's Square site but are keen to play an active role in future plans.

Secretary Dilys Colbourne, of Crossfield Road, said: "News that architects have been appointed to head a project to redevelop the town centre site coincides with the 17th anniversary of the formation of the BCAG.

"It was formed with a remit to promote community use of the old town hall and the much-valued green oasis of the park. We are so pleased that after all this time we have won the battle to keep the character of town centre."

But she stressed: "It is now up to all of us to continue monitoring the situation, making our views known during periods of public consultation. This way, we can ensure that we achieve a development we can be proud of."

She added: "At several points in our struggle, I was advised to put my efforts into other issues.

"I am involved in other matters, but this was, and is, an important fight for everyone in Barry, not just those living near the town centre."

Two Barry residents simply enjoying the sun on Tuesday afternoon agreed. Mark Loughman, 29, was on his lunch break.

He said: "Spending my lunch hour here will be so much nicer after it's developed. As long as they keep the park, I don't really mind what they do. Wayne Hawkins, 19, has just finished college.

He added: "Personally, I'd like to see the basketball court done up, and the shelters removed. Anything would be an improvement."