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Senior councillors have unanimously agreed to put more than £250,000 towards a new bowls pavilion and cadets base in Caerphilly.

The development at Morgan Jones Park would replace the current bowling facilities and cadet huts at the park, bringing them together under one sports pavilion.

This means the 100-year-old bowl pavilion would be demolished to make way for the new facility.

On Wednesday, July 27, the council’s cabinet were told that the proposals had support from all parties involved, including the bowls team and the cadets.

Morgan Jones ward councillor Jamie Pritchard said the proposal had cross-party support. This includes the four Penyrheol councillors – who are all Plaid Cymru – as well as the three Morgan Jones councillors, who belong to Labour.

The deputy leader also said he hoped the new facility would increase membership of the bowls club and the cadets.

Currently, the Caerphilly squadron of the Royal Air Force (RAF) Air Cadets are based in a building in Morgan Jones Park, and the Army Cadets hut is situated opposite Penyrheol Community Centre. The report presented to the cabinet stated the condition of the buildings is too “poor” to refurbish.

The total cost of the joint venture with the Ministry of Defence (MOD) is estimated at £768,000. At the meeting, it was approved that the financial contribution would come from the council’s Corporate Capital Reserve.

Additionally, officers will work to identify opportunities for external grant funding, which will aim to reduce the burden on the capital budget.

Council cabinet member Shayne Cook, who also represents the Morgan Jones ward for Labour, said: “Today in cabinet I was very pleased to second an amazing joint project between the council and the MoD to create a new Multi-Functional Cadet and Sport Pavilion in Morgan Jones Park.

“The existing wooden structures are not fit for purpose and by securing this brand-new facility it will not only benefit current users but the wider community. I’m glad to see further investment in Morgan Jones Park following on from previously secured investment in the skate park and splash pad.”

Powers have been delegated to council officers to decide the operations of the pavilion.

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