CAMPAIGNERS say land in Cardiff occupied by major government offices could provide the perfect solution to controversial school expansion plans.
Save Maindy Velodrome campaign said it recently learned from informed sources that the Government Property Agency (GPA) is set to sell land on Crown Way currently occupied by the Companies House offices.
The offices are adjacent to Cathays High School which is the subject of plans by Cardiff Council for an expansion.
If approved, the expansion of Cathays High would provide the area with a larger school up to 21st century standards, but it would also mean the loss of the historic Maindy Velodrome.
Speaking on behalf of Save Maindy Velodrome campaign, Chris Lewis said: “We understand the ‘For Sale’ signal has been given in internal briefings to Companies House staff earlier this week.
“It renders unnecessary the proposed ‘land swap’ at Maindy Park which would see around seven acres of open public space lost to the community.”
When asked to confirm whether or not it is the intention of the GPA to sell the Companies House offices on Crown Way, a Government spokesperson said: “We are committed to having an efficient and cost-effective public estate.
“Any announcements regarding the Crown Way site would be made in the usual way.”
Companies House was also asked to confirm whether or not the offices on Crown Way were set to be sold.
A Companies House spokesperson said: “We have been contacted by the Government Property Agency regarding the Crown Way site and staff have been informed.
“It would be inappropriate to comment further on the matter at this stage.”
Cardiff Council’s cabinet approved the recommendations of an independent advisory committee to go ahead with a land swap, which would see land at Maindy Park exchanged for land at Caedelyn Park in Rhiwbina, on March 2.
However, the decision is subject to approval by the Charity Commission.
The council has submitted an application to the Charity Commission for the land swap to go ahead which has kick-started a process of assessment which could take months.
