A POPULAR play area has re-opened today after being closed for weeks.

The Argus previously reported that, despite Newport City Council spending more than £59,000 on refurbishment in January, the Multi Use Games Area (MUGA) in Rogerstone was later closed in June.

Councillors and residents previously called for the popular site - which houses a tarmacked enclosure with a five-a-side football pitch and basketball court - to be re-opened.

Rogerstone resident Rob Blake, who is a teacher, welcomed the recent announcement.

“I think it’s long over due,” said Mr Blake.

“When ever I took my son there the MUGA was full with other families enjoying themselves.

“I think I said before that my son got really upset when it shut.

“At least with it being open again he’ll be able to go there and kick a ball around again.”

Another Rogerstone resident Nicola Evans added she looked forward to taking her children to the site on the weekends.

She said: “Finally the MUGA has re-opened.

“I have two young children and they kept asking me when it would re-open.

“I think it’s bad that it was closed for so long.

“They love the MUGA and I’m glad to be able to take them there again.”

Councillor Chris Evans, member for Rogerstone, welcomed the news and also called on residents to “work together” to tackle any anti-social activities at the site.

He said: “I’m pleased that the MUGA is re-opened for the whole of the area to use.

“With regard to the alleged anti-social behaviour happening there, people need to work together and report any incidents to the police.”

A Newport council spokeswoman said the council is “delighted” that the MUGA has been re-opened today.

She said: “The playing area has been closed for several weeks following concerns over health and safety when some fence panels became loose.

“Work has taken place to ensure the panels are now secure and a six month maintenance programme will be put in place.

“It has been agreed that the MUGA opening hours will be 8.30am to 8pm Monday to Friday and from 8.30am to 6pm on Saturday and Sunday to help park rangers with their duties.”

She added that any anti-social behaviour can be reported to community safe wardens by calling 01633 656656.