PONTYPOOL RFC have appealed for support from Pontypool Community Council on their new application to build fences to shield the club from vandalism.

In recent years, the club has suffered repeated acts of vandalism from fires and graffiti to ripped seats.

Despite winning the Welsh Rugby Union (WRU) national championship last year, they can’t be promoted into the premiership due to WRU rules which require grounds to be ringfenced.

But previous plans to build a fence around the club have been hindered due to a historic Pontypool Park covenant requiring areas to remain publicly accessible.

The pre-application enquiry - which has been sent to Torfaen council - will be discussed by Pontypool’s community councillors at meeting tonight.

It states that the “integrity” of the covenant has become “eroded” as other centres based in the park - such as Pontypool Active Living Centre and the bowling green and club rooms - have limited public access.

Proposed fencing would surround the main spectator stand, the pitch and northern spectator terrace and a full application is expected to be submitted next year.

Pontypool RFC’s chief executive, Ben Jeffreys, said the proposals are the only way to “safeguard the club’s future” in light of vandalism and anti social behaviour.

“I am sympathetic to members of the public who take the view that Pontypool Park should remain accessible to all members of the public, but I would urge people to consider the impact that such destructive acts are having on our volunteers and supporters,” he said.

“Regularly, our volunteers are encountering broken seats, graffiti, drug paraphernalia and even human excrement and it is only them who clear these items away to ensure the safety of our players and supporters prior to any match taking place."

The proposals would prevent public access at all times to the main spectator stand other than when matches and official events are taking place.

In respect of the historic covenant, the public would have access at all times to the pitch and northern terrace stand through unlocked pedestrian gates.

Mr Jeffreys added: “We have no intention of preventing decent and respectful members of the public from enjoying the facility and we will make every effort to consult with as many people as possible during this process to listen to any concerns regarding this.

“We remain grateful to Torfaen County Borough Council for their on-going support. Both organisations continue to work in unison and we are all driven to ensure that Pontypool Park enjoys a vibrant future.”

Torfaen council confirmed they're are currently considering the enquiry.