The Coychurch playing field was purchased by the then Pen Y Bont Borough Council to be held for use by local residents and others from neighbouring communities. The land was later earmarked as a possible site of a Welsh School but surveys indicated that it was not suitable for building on.
The playing field has a history involving various sports including cricket and football. In recent years the Pavilion has been closed as major renovation work is required.
Following a public consultation with residents in 2021 and discussions as to the use of the space and its value to the community, it was decided that the Community Council would apply for a community asset transfer (CAT) of the field and the pavilion. This is on-going. The first step was to complete a business plan, obtain expressions of interest in using the field and the pavilion and to develop a cohesive plan for the development of a green space accessible to and usable by all ages and abilities. This Business Plan was submitted to Bridgend County Borough Council's CAT Steering Group and gained in principle support.
A more detailed addition to the proposal was then prepared with costs for demolishing the old pavilion and replacing it with a new building. Bridgend County Borough Council's Local Places for Nature team engaged a landscape architect to put together a ground plan for the field which includes a variety of natural habitats, native trees, fruit trees and wildflower planting, display boards, seating, walkways, flood defences for the southern side of the field, and groundwork to improve the pedestrian access in Park View to make it usable by people of all abilities. The groundworks, trees/shrubs and wildflower planting were completed by the end of 2024. Further wildflower planting is planned for March 2025
The asbestos has been removed from the pavilion in preparation for the pavilion to be demolished. This will enable the car park to be extended and bicycle stands to be installed in 2025. The Community Council will seek funding for a new pavilion to be installed in 2026-7.
The central grassed space can contain a junior sized football pitch, a space for football coaching to take place and outdoor fitness equipment for the more adventurous. The all-weather circular path enables dog walkers and others (joggers, walkers, runners) to use the field all year round.