A GROUP of Pembroke Dock residents are embroiled in a race against the clock to save their remaining green space.

People living on and around Queen Street want to register the space as a village green following renewed fears Pembrokeshire Housing plans to build houses on the land.

The town council is working with residents to gather evidence – including family photos and written statements - that the community has been using the grass on Queen Street for recreation for 20-years.

But a change in legislation, due to come into force in September, means town and community councils will be prohibited from applying for village green status on land earmarked for development.

Pembroke Dock town clerk Sarah Scourfield said: “This is the only patch of green space left in the central ward and if it’s built on that will be lost. We want to register the land as a village green so it can be kept as it is for the community.”

From dog walking to football matches, picnics and parties, the space is well used by residents who are adamant they do not want to lose it, having vehemently opposed a previous planning application

Councillor Margaret Murton, who is spearheading the campaign, said: “Children have been using this for years and it’s a crying shame, especially when the authorities talk about getting young people away from computer screens and out into the fresh air.”

King Street resident Kelly Hughes said: “There are 16 children living on the street and others who use this on a daily basis - it’s like a big extension of all our gardens.

“There’s very little at all to do in Pembroke Dock, this is about getting back to the good old days when kids did just kick a ball around and play games.”

A Pembrokeshire Housing Association spokesman said: “The Association is undertaking a feasibility study with the agreement of the county council to establish whether a small portion of the site could accommodate a small number of houses, fronting Queen Street.”

To support the village green effort contact town clerk Sarah Scourfield on 01646 684410 or visit the Pater Hall offices.