‘Sacred’ beauty spot ‘left to fall into decay’
RESIDENT SAYS SITE’S CONDITION IS ‘INSULT TO THE COMMUNITY’
THE neglected condition of a beauty spot considered “sacred” by locals is an “insult to the community”, according to an angry resident.
Roman Camp off Ffordd Garth Uchaf in Bangor, which is owned by Gwynedd Council, has been a popular site for many years.
But locals now feel it has been left to go to ruin over the last decade.
Richard Gerrard, 67, grew up in the Garth area of Bangor and says he is disappointed to see the place he describes as “sacred” fall into such disrepair.
He said the entire area, which is a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI), is largely inaccessible due to overgrown shrubbery, and that ivy is killing trees at the site.
Mr Gerrard, who now lives in Llangefni, is also concerned that the site has become dangerous due to a low-hanging electric cable and uneven steps and pathways.
“I lived in Garth from about 1956 to 1988, but my family lived there until about five years ago and I owned a house there too,” he said.
“I loved the people of Garth and I enjoyed my childhood there, especially Roman Camp which was like my garden, a fantastic place to play.
“It is a sacred place to many people who have lived or live in Garth.
“Many live in various places on our planet but they still think of home and Bangor, the Bangor of the past rather than of today. I visit Bangor once a week.
“As owners, Gwynedd Council
have a moral obligation to look after and maintain what is an underused public asset.
“In the last few years and especially since the 60s, the camp has fallen foul of the lack of basic maintenance.”
Mr Gerrard said that about 40% of the woodland is no longer accessible and that many of the trees are being destroyed by ivy.
“This needs immediate attention especially when some of the trees there are protected as part of the SSSI that the camp is supposed to benefit from,” he said.
“The camp, coupled with the pier and other woodlands, could be promoted as a single unit for locals and tourists to enjoy.
“There is no periodic inspection at all of the camp or routine maintenance other than the grass is cut.
“I am told this is due to lack of money, but that is no excuse as Gwynedd Council have a legal obligation to keep the camp safe and all the paths open.
“The condition of the camp is an insult to the community.
“I suggest that the whole area could be transferred to a group of local people who could protect and maintain the camp, as Gwynedd Council has failed.”
Mr Gerrard has since complained to the council but says he has yet to receive a response.
A Gwynedd Council spokesperson said: “We are aware of the matters raised and have been in discussions with the local councillor regarding the site and the proposed work.
“Our officers have been in contact with BT regarding the cable that runs from Lon Cariadon and are in discussions with them regarding this matter.
“We will consider whether improvements can be made to the path surface when this work is confirmed.
“Whilst it is important that we maintain the ecology of the woodland, staff plan to carry out work to ensure clear access to the footpaths in the area.”