A DATE has been set for the replacement of a shelter on Ledbury Recreation ground, after town councillors pressed for clarification as to when this would happen.

The old metal shelter close to the skatepark was removed recently because it was found to be “not structurally safe” for the seating it supported.

But at a recent town council meeting, councillors pressed the interim clerk, Mel Ab Owain, for a date when a more state of the art shelter would be installed, as planned.

Mr Ab Owain said: “The contractor has told us April or May.”

Weather conditions mean there has to be a necessary delay.

Mr Ab Owain said: “The ground is too wet at the moment to put a base in.”

But a new shelter has been ordered and, when councillors asked for a firm date for the “anticipated completion,” - when the new shelter would be installed and ready for use, Mr Ab Owain said May 31.

The new shelter will have power point and will be able to effectively double-up as a performance space or ‘mini-theatre’.

A Ledbury Town Council statement said: “This structure is of a modern design and the council is consulting with young people about decorating it with their art work.

“The shelter will be useful for other functions including being used as a small bandstand.”

It was a design originally identified by veteran town councillor, Tony Bradford, following consultations with local young people.

In October, when the town council agreed to support a £10,000 replacement for the old shelter, Cllr Bradford said: “It’s wonderful news. This will be an wonderful asset for the town.”

Although the shelter looks set to be located on the site of the old shelter, the Reporter understands the design allows for alternative locations because, although the aluminium structure will be strong, it will also moveable, if required.