PARENTS in Rhiwderin have expressed their anger at finding their local playground has been dug up and put in storage.

Gemma Brace of Rhiwderin was driving through the village on Sunday morning when she saw it being dug up.

The mother of two said: “By midday it was gone. We had heard rumours it was going in September, but not now.

“All the kids are really disappointed. It’s not the greatest but it’s somewhere for the kids to play. That’s all we’ve got.”

The playground was on private land and the community council was given notice to quit the area some time ago. The play equipment is now in storage.

Newport councillor of Graig ward, David Williams is personally working on the project and said: “The community council worked hard to keep it there for as long as possible. We are actively seeking a site at the moment. We’ll have it sorted.”

The playground on the grassy area in the centre of the village included swings and a seesaw. The closest play area for the residents now is in Bassaleg, which is at least a half an hour’s walk away.

Mr Williams said two potential sites they were considering were an open space at the bottom of Harlech Drive and in the grounds of the community centre.

He said: “The plan will be to relocate it in the Rhiwderin area once a suitable site is found.”

Ms Brace said: “We’re not asking for a new park – just for the old one to be re-installed.

“The park is a way of popping out for the afternoon without having to pay for anything.

“There was no written notice or petition.”

A spokeswoman for Newport City Council said: “The playground located in Rhiwderin has been removed. The land the playground was situated on is owned by Newbridge Enterprises and has until recently been leased by the Community Council. This lease has now expired.

“Newport City Council is now in the process of identifying new and suitable locations within the ward that can be used to provide play and leisure facilities. It is anticipated that work to replace the playground facilities will begin prior to the start of the summer holiday period.”