ADDITIONAL funding for a 3G (third generation) pitch in Caldicot could be taken from Section 106 monies intended for projects in Magor with Undy.

The 3G pitch is being built to replace lost land at the Caldicot School following its sale to Asda for the development of the supermarket.

Work was supposed to start on the pitch in 2012 following a budget agreement of £610,000, later revised to £600,000 following a WRU grant not being forthcoming.

Prior to an anticipated construction start date, previous uncharted sewers and water pipes were discovered and required diversion before work could start on both the pitch and Asda.

Last May, cabinet approved a budget of £300,000 to carry out the works with 75 per cent to be taken from Caldicot playing field receipts and 25 per cent from s106 monies.

Cabinet agreed last Wednesday (2nd April) that money should be taken from s106 monies for projects in Magor and Undy and are to seek council approval tomorrow (10th April).

Some councillors have spoken out against the decision.

Councillor Jessica Crook of the Elms ward, said: "the decision by the Conservative/Lib Dem cabinet to divert s106 monies intended to help improve facilities in Magor and Undy to Caldicot is mindboggling as well as deeply disappointing.

"The representations I made to the cabinet on this issue seem to have carried little weight.

"I fought strenously to stop the proposal of 500 houses being built in Undy - largely due to our complete lack of facilities.

"A common promise to me during my fight to stop the houses being built was that our council would now begin putting real money and resources into improving the facilities of Magor and Undy.

"This decision identifies clearly that the Conservative/Lib Dem partnership has no serious plans to improve facilities in Magor and Undy in the near future.

"The residents of Undy and Magor deserve much better."

However, several councillors said the pitch would not just benefit Caldicot School but benefit the whole Severnside area.

Cabinet member Councillor Bob Greenland, said: "It seems appropriate the money should be taken from these areas as it won't just be the people of Caldicot using the pitch but indeed the surrounding areas, including Magor and Undy."

Cabinet leader Peter Fox said: "We are bringing a fantastic new facility to the area that will benefit not just the school but other children living in the Severnside area.

"Taking money from rather a stagnant s106 monies doesn't seem wrong."

Monmouthshire County Council will meet tomorrow (10th April) to discuss the Caldicot 3G pitch plans.

For more details about the Caldicot 3G pitch, visit: http://www.mon">www.mon

mouthshire.gov.uk