TOWN councillors are “heartened” by a surge in response from people willing to fill out a survey which could bag Aberystwyth a new £500,000 skatepark.

Penparcau councillor Mererid Jones expressed concern in December that only 320 people had filled out the survey, but following efforts by colleagues and an article in the Cambrian News which highlighted the issue the number went up to more than 800.

If successful, the half-a-million-pound grant would be used to transform the run-down skatepark and surrounding area opposite Starling Cloud into a space for skaters and the whole community to enjoy.

Cllr Jones appealed for people to write letters of support and take part in an online survey after a previous application for funding from the Big Lottery failed because there was a lack of evidence to show support from local people, groups and businesses.

But after the sluggish initial response, the number of people who have filled out the survey has more than doubled.

Cllr Jones said: “The number of responses has gone up from 320 to more than 800.

“The application hasn’t gone in yet but we have been heartened by the positive response of the community. We are planning to submit the application in mid or late February, and will hopefully get an answer by August.”

People can still complete the survey by visiting: www.smartsurvey.co.uk/s/ParcKronberg

Find out about planning applications that affect you by visiting the Public Notice Portal.

Letters of support should be sent to Aberystwyth Town Council, 11 Baker Street, Aberystwyth SY23 2BJ, or e-mailed to: [email protected]