A petition has been launched against an “unfair” decision to keep playgrounds closed in Aberystwyth.

Welsh Liberal Democrat Senedd candidate for Ceredigion Cadan ap Tomos is calling on Aberystwyth Town Council to follow the lead of communities elsewhere in Ceredigion and across Wales who have reopened their parks safely.

The town council-run castle, Penparcau and Plascrug parks closed in March when lockdown hit. They were given the go-ahead from the Welsh Government to reopen in July, but the town council kept them shut, despite pleas from local parents and councillors. They have remained close since.

During a council meeting on 26 October, councillors decided a Children’s Impact Assessment would be completed and the decision to keep the parks closed would be regularly reviewed.

The nest review is at the council meeting on 23 November.

Cadan ap Tomos said: “Children in Aberystwyth have been left without a dedicated safe place to play for months on end.

“When parks elsewhere in Ceredigion and across Wales have already reopened safely, it’s simply unfair that families in Aberystwyth can’t enjoy the swings and climbing frames outdoors.

“The risks of transmitting Covid-19 in an outdoor playground are very low, while the long-term risks to children’s health and wellbeing by discouraging outdoor play just can’t be ignored. I hope every in Aberystwyth will sign my petition and encourage the town council to re-think their decision.”

Cllr Alex Mangold, who has been a vocal supporter of reopening the playgrounds, welcomed the petition.

He said: “I’m happy more people are campaigning for the playgrounds to reopen. I have absolutely no interest in political point scoring. Every little helps, so I’m glad Cadan ap Tomos has hopped on board.

“If people could sign the petition to show strength in numbers then that is definitely a good thing. At the same time, I’d also encourage parents and children unhappy with the closure to keep making their voices heard by contact Ceredigion council, Aberystwyth Town Council and the Children’s Commissioner directly.

“I have more things planned and won’t stop campaigning. The town council is currently conducting the Children’s Impact Assessment, so I’m hoping the exercise will guide councillors in their thinking when reconsidering the closure at the next full council meeting.”

The petition can be found online at www.ceredigionlibdems.org.uk/playgrounds