Vandalism which caused more than £1,000 of damage to a playpark has been condemned as ”dispiriting” and a ”kick in the teeth”.
The damage was caused to the playpark at Cliffburn Community Park, Arbroath. The plastic seat of the ”birds’ nest” swing and the rubber surface below the seat were damaged by fire.
The incident comes just weeks after two episodes of serious vandalism to the play area at West Links ran up a repair bill of £3,000, which closed the attraction for six weeks.
Angus Council vice-convener of neighbourhood services Councillor Jeanette Gaul said: ”I condemn this wanton and thoughtless vandalism, which not only deprives local children of play equipment but also adds pressures to the public purse at a time of economic stringency. This leaves less money to go round for other play parks.
”The Cliffburn community raised funds for this playpark to benefit the children in the area, so this is particularly dispiriting for local people. I urge anyone who has any information about this vandalism to contact the police as soon as possible.”
Arbroath East and Lunan councillor Martyn Geddes added: ”The regeneration of the Cliffburn area has been led by the local community and this mindless vandalism is a real kick in the teeth to all of their hard work.”
Anyone who saw suspicious activity in the area is asked to contact Tayside Police on 0300 111 2222.