LAND that a community campaign saved from being developed as housing has begun its transformation into a community garden.

Cemetery Approach in Barry had been fenced off and left in disuse when residents fought a successful campaign to save it from a housing association’s plans for residential development.

More than 12,000 people signed a petition and wrote letters objecting to the housing scheme which was eventually rejected by the Vale Council’s planning committee.

Since then Barry Town Council and the Vale council have contributed £250,000 apiece for a scheme to transform the area into a community garden.

Although the details are yet to be finalised, when the work is completed it is likely that Barry Town Council will take over the upkeep of the area, as they currently do with the adjacent Merthyr Dyfan cemetery.

Plaid Cymru town councillor Shirley Hodges said she was delighted to see work beginning on the project.

"Plaid always supported this land being used for public use and not housing," she said. "We understand the special nature of the area as a ceremonial entrance to the cemetery.

"We are excited by the development of gardens on both sides of cemetery approach. The plans include substantial work to improve the road as well as landscaping the area. Also it’s great that we can keep as many of the healthy trees as possible and replanting where needed.

"There will be a new modern community building on site. It is hoped the town will really see it taking shape in spring next year. At present the last remaining rubble is being cleared.

"I’m pleased that Plaid Councillors played a part in helping the residents win this important battle. All too often we have been walked over by the authorities, this time the community has won.”