Levels of vandalism at Bradley Stoke’s play areas show no sign of abating, judging by the latest quarterly Health & Safety report published by the Town Council last week.
Three silver birch trees at the Jubilee Green play park, the only ones remaining from the original planting following earlier vandalism, were snapped off at the end of May.
At the Rosemary Close play area, the see-saw was broken in half in March, costing the Council £1,405 to replace. At the same park, vandalism to a metal railing, discovered in May, cost £165 to put right.
The skate park at Bradley Stoke Leisure Centre has been the scene of three reported incidents. Obscene, sexually graphic graffiti drawn with a marker pen on some of the ramps had to be removed by the Council’s Mobile Cleansing Operative during May. Two fence panels around the park have been vandalised and a large hole made in one of the ramps.
In April, part of the multi-play equipment at the Baileys Court play area was pulled off and taken away.
Also at Baileys Court, a fire was started on the cricket veranda in April and the cricket nets were cut during the last week in June.
Anyone witnessing an act of criminal damage is asked to phone the police on 101 and notify the Town Council on 01454 205020.
The Town Council previously reported that it had spent over £7,000 to repair vandalised property during 2010/2011 and a similar sum (£6,750) during the first half of 2011/2012.
Incidents at the Jubilee Green play park reported earlier this year include the smashing of four panels in the wooden bridge and attempts to cut through the ropes of the cantilever swing basket, costing £175 and £227 respectively to repair.
Photo: A carved seat on Jubilee Green, pictured after being damaged by a fire started by vandals.
Related links:
- Play Areas in Bradley Stoke (The Journal)
- Friends of Jubilee Green
I abhor vandalism, of course; but why oh why does it cost over £1,400 to replace a see-saw?