Velindre cancer hospital protest over Cardiff meadows

More than 250 demonstrators have protested against plans to build a new cancer centre on a meadow site in Cardiff.

The socially-distanced protest called for the Velindre University NHS Trust to abandon £180m proposals for the Northern Meadows in Whitchurch.

They say it will lead to a loss of green space, and over 10,000 people have now signed an online petition.

The hospital trust said the fields were the only suitable location.

Protest signs were put on a gate at Northern Meadows

Outline planning permission was granted for the hospital two years ago but problems in arranging site access have caused delays.

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Two new planning applications are hoped to resolve the issue.

Tessa Marshall has organised an online petition with over 10,000 names against the plans

Tessa Marshall, who organised the online petition against the proposals, said local people needed access to green spaces in the city, especially during the ongoing coronavirus crisis.

"It's just incredible that we've managed to raise awareness for so many people," she said on Saturday.

"I think it shows that a lot of people, when they found out about the development on this site, they were against it."

Cardiff councillor Mia Rees is also opposing the plans and was one of several of the city's elected members who turned out for the protest.

"It's a fantastic turnout, and it is because they care about this green space in this part of Cardiff," she said.

"It's not an issue that we don't want the hospital to be built, we just don't want it to be built here - here is not the right place.

"It's a gorgeous place bordering a nature reserve. It's really important for everyone."

"Here is not the right place to build the hospital," says Cardiff councillor Mia Rees

Senedd member and Cardiff councillor Neil McEvoy added: "There are several brownfield sites available now, so if they chose a brownfield site there would be no delay.

"Build on a brownfield site and save this greenfield space."

The Velindre trust has said 60% of the land will continue to be available to the local community, adding: "We are committed to securing a future for the fields as a community asset."