BACK IN THE GAME
Trearddur Bay FC joy
A LONG-running dispute which saw an Anglesey football club locked out of its own ground, has finally been resolved.
Officials at Trearddur Bay United FC were shocked in early March when padlocks were placed on their Lon Isallt ground, meaning the postponement of several first team and reserve fixtures.
Enforcement agents acting on behalf of the private landowner, known as MMI Investments Ltd, had also placed signs warning that anyone walking onto the land could be subject to criminal or civic procedings.
But a county court hearing has now sorted out the ground’s ownership, with the padlocks now set to be removed by early June.
Despite being privately owned, Lon Isallt was leased out to Anglesey Council , to whom the Welsh Alliance club pay rent.
A spokesman for the authority, said: “At Caernarfon County Court on Friday, May 19, 2017, the case between MMI Investments Ltd and ourselves was heard by District Judge W J Owen.”
“We can confirm that the matter has now been resolved and the longterm lease has been legally restored.
“We will now look to continue discussions with the local community and landlord with regards to the longterm future of the land”
He added: “The facility is a valuable recreational amenity for Trearddur Bay, as was demonstrated by the strength of public support opposing the landlord’s decision to take possession through peaceful re-entry back in March.”
The enforcement agents, Penham Excel, have been approached to comment.
But, welcoming the latest development, former Football Association of Wales President and local county councillor, Trefor Lloyd Hughes, said: “Its been a team effort, we thank everyone, in particular Trearddur Bay Community Council.
“Hopefully, the matter is now resolved over the long term. Its con- sultation we want, not confronatation.”
Fellow councillor, Dafydd Rhys Thomas, added: “I feel very happy that the future of the ground and the club is now safe. I’d like to thank the county council officers for all they did, we’ve got a good result.”
Trearddur Bay FC club secretary, Gwilym Owen, said: “Despite a few matches being postponed, we were thankful we were given dispensation to play games here during the dispute.
“But its good news that it all seems to have been sorted out now and we can start next season afresh.”
“The county council officers got a good result” Cllr Dafydd Rhys Thomas