was presented with a petition by plot holders to save their allotment in Oakdale
Allotment holders in Oakdale are battling to save their plots from being sold.
Llanover Estate, freeholders of the Rhiw-Syr-Dafydd allotment, have told Caerphilly County Borough Council that the 20-year lease will not be renewed when it ends in December.
There is speculation the land could be sold to housing developer Redrow, which built the allotment’s neighbouring housing development.
Lyndon Witts, secretary of the allotment committee, said: “They moved us 20 years ago to the last bit of the colliery site.
“We are worried that we are not going to have an allotment.
“It’s been there for decades and a lot of effort and money has been put into it.”
The 22 allotment plot holders are being backed in their fight by Islwyn Assembly Member Rhianon Passmore.
Ms Passmore, who recently recieved a 500-signature petition to save the allotments, said: “Rhiw-Syr-Dafydd allotment is a highly valued community amenity. Neighbouring Ysgol Cwm Derwen and Islwyn High School both have well-tended plots.
“The allotment enables local children to get involved and grow their own fresh produce. These educational visits are very important as we encourage young people and their families to eat healthily.”
A spokeswoman for Caerphilly County Borough Council, which leases the land from Llanover Estate, said: “We have been formally advised by the landowner that they will not be renewing the current lease when it expires in December 2017.
“The council is actively seeking an alternative site so the plot holders can be relocated with as little inconvenience as possible”.
A spokesman for Llanover Estate said: “We hope the local authority is able to provide alternative sites for the allotment holders in question and we are happy to continue to support them in this endeavour.
“We have offered to meet with council officers to discuss and assist with future allotment provision where possible.”