The mayor of Ammanford is calling on the public for their views over the upcoming asset transfer of the town’s facilities.

Over the last two years, Alex Smith and the rest of Ammanford Town Council have been deliberating regarding the asset transfer and now he is calling on the residents of Ammanford to give their opinion on what they think their money should be put towards.

Cllr Smith said: “If Ammanford Town Council take over the assets such as the parks and playing fields in the town then they will be in completely control of the facilities, but if an outside body takes over the town's facilities I believe things will start to change.

“These assets such as the several parks and playing fields including the Recreation Ground have been a part of the town for generations and it will be a shame for them not to belong to Ammanford anymore, but it is the public’s money so they need their opinion to be heard.

“The Town Council is interested in the town and the people in it. If the facilities are taken over by another organisation then there is no guarantee that they can come back into the town’s control.

“Playgrounds such as Maes-y-Coed could end up being closed permanently if nothing is done so we need to do something sooner rather than later.

“Ammanford Park is one of the main features of the town so it would be a real shame for it to disappear so if you want your children to continue to use these fantastic facilities then we need to hear what you think.”

Ultimately the final decision will be made by councillors in a vote, but the council would like public opinion to be an aspect of their final decision.

A proposal for lighting at Ammanford Park has also been put forward by a county councillor at a recent town council meeting.

A project application was proposed by Councillor Deian Harries for the council to purchase and install eight columns with timer controlled solar powered lamps in Ammanford Town Park.

The project aims to encourage more residents to use the park by installing the lighting by September 2017 using solar power allowing for sustainability with minimal ongoing cost.

Cllr Harries said: “Currently the park becomes unusable once it gets dark, in the winter months in particular this is anywhere from about 4pm.

“There is a health and safety responsibility that needs to be filled so the community can continue to make use of this town asset especially in the evening.

"It will be a safer route home for people.”

Anyone who would like to give their opinion on the asset transfer is asked to email the council clerk at v_llewellyn@sky.com or the mayor at alexsmith@ammanfordtowncouncil.co.uk or write a letter to the Town Hall by January 31.