David Chadwick called for greater investment to be made in local playgrounds during a debate in Parliament last week.

The Liberal Democrat MP for Brecon, Radnor and Cwm Tawe spoke in a Westminster Hall debate on playgrounds.

Mr Chadwick has two children aged under three, so said he was delighted to contribute to the debate.

He explained that an extra benefit of investment in playgrounds is that they bring footfall into town centres and nearby shops and cafés, thereby benefiting the local economy.

The Welsh Lib Dems are campaigning for the Welsh Government to provide local communities with greater funding to revamp playgrounds.

Mr Chadwick raised the example of Brecon, where he is hoping to secure funding to help revamp the King George V Playing Fields.

He said: “I have one such example in Brecon at the King George V Playing Field, which I hope will help to regenerate our town centre.”

Speaking after the debate, Mr Chadwick said: “Playgrounds are such a vital resource for our children and young families.

“They offer a cost-free option to keep children active, socialising and happy. But they also help support local businesses in our town centres.

“Sadly, many of our playgrounds and playing fields have seen better days. That’s why the Welsh Liberal Democrats have been calling on the Welsh Government to provide greater support to revamp our playgrounds and playing fields, such as the King George V Playing Fields in Brecon to ensure our children get the best start in life they deserve.”

Responding to Mr Chadwick during the debate, Labour MP for Ilford South, Jas Athwal, said he “absolutely agreed.”

“Footfall is much needed in this day and age,” he said.

“Thanks to the investment, not only can families enjoy a free day out right on their doorstep, but local businesses benefit.”