There have been several acts of mindless vandalism across parks in Weymouth, including graffiti on the new pump-track and damage to noticeboards, play equipment and park seats.
The most recent incident involved damage to the play equipment at The Marsh. Unfortunately, one item, called a ‘Hip-hop’, was damaged beyond repair and will cost approximately £4000 to replace. The rubber matting of the trampoline was also broken, and the Parks Team are currently in communication with the supplier to calculate the cost for this to be repaired.
Two donated seats at Wyke Gardens will also need to be replaced after they were found vandalised, which will cost approximately £1000.
This follows the extremely disappointing incident in March, which resulted in two noticeboards and a plant climbing frame being damaged in Radipole Park and Gardens.
Last week, the pump-track at Wyke Regis Playing Field was found in an offensive state after vandals graffitied this recently installed and popular sport’s facility. The clear up operation took significant time and cost.
Weymouth Town Council has reported these incidents to the police and if any residents have any information regarding these acts of vandalism or other anti-social behaviour, they are encouraged to speak to their local Police Community Support Officer on 101 or report their concerns on-line at www.dorset.police.uk/do-it-online.
Chair of Services Committee, Councillor David Northam, comments: “This vandalism is extremely disappointing and will sadly affect children who will be unable to enjoy The Marsh play area as they should through the half term holidays. It also wastes valuable public money that should be spent on new projects and improvements, not clearing up after vandals.
These concerns were discussed at Weymouth Town Council’s Services Committee meeting and we will be seeking help from Dorset Council’s Community Safety and Youth Services teams into the underlying causes and prevention of such vandalism.
The Parks Team are doing a great job in creating and maintaining welcoming and attractive green spaces. I ask the public to support these efforts by reporting any vandalism to the Police and councillors.”
