Newport residents 'appalled' by damage at Tredegar Park

The company Gravity Circus performed at Tredegar Park in Newport from Wednesday September 25 to September 29, 2024.  

Newport residents who regularly use the park have discussed the damage on social media in local Facebook groups.  

The green space at the park is a popular spot for local families, sports matches, and big events.  

For locals who live nearby, it is the perfect spot to go and walk your dog on sunny and rainy days. 

The tracks in the mud across a large area (Image: Newsquest)

Nigel Anthony, who runs through the park three to four times a week, says he is ‘appalled at the damage.’ 

“The local council has allowed a circus to set up in the park.

"The vehicles have torn up large areas of grass that are used by walkers and families. 

“The tire tracks are wide and deep.” 

Images taken by a reporter who went to the park to see the damaged show vehicles from the circus company next to the tracks in the mud. 

The circus vehicles next to damaged grass (Image: Newsquest)

The vehicles and damaged grass (Image: Newsquest)

The circus was held just across from football matches taking place on the same day.  

The Argus approached the company Gravity Circus for a comment, but had no reply.

The tracks leading up to the circus tent (Image: Newsquest)Newport City Council recently opened the notorious Splash ‘Port and redeveloped the play zone this summer. 

A spokesperson for Newport City Council said: “Some superficial damage to grass and topsoil was caused while the circus was de-rigging and leaving the site, which will be repaired over the winter.  

“This has not affected any of the playing fields in the park. Quite significant downpours last week, after the circus had already (been) set up, have contributed to this superficial damage being caused. 

“The cost of reinstating the fields for any major commercial event held in the park is met by the event organiser as part of their conditions for hiring the space.”