ANOTHER Liberal Democrat councillor has defended her decision to support the green spaces strategy.

Councillor Cheryl Ann was one of several Lib Dems accused of hypocrisy for choosing not to back a plan to scrap the scheme at a council meeting on Tuesday, despite opposition to it in her Horfield ward.

But the councillor has argued that scrapping the sell-off at this stage would be premature.

She said: "The Ardagh has needed refurbishment for decades.

"A past sporting hub and contributor to the Bristol in Bloom stands neglected – yet vehemently well loved.

"The Wellington Hill Field used by so many dedicated organised and spontaneous groups and individuals now faces a future prospect of revitalisation.

"Why would I not only as a councillor, but as a resident and user of these places, turn my back now on the wishes of my residents and neighbours and abandon their hopes to retain, regain and strengthen these sites bringing them back into the forefront of local use and council attention?

"The consultation has brought community spirit to the fore.

"Volunteers who have selflessly retained the Ardagh are now joined by additional supporters and bold and rational ideas are contained in the many responses to the consultation – to abandon that work and those hopes secures no green space or site for any meaningful length of time."