Fear of vandalism at parks set for upgrades

COUNCILLORS fear that four flagship play areas to be built in Newcastle could quickly become the target of vandals and arsonists.

- By DANIEL HOLLAND

Fire damaged play equipment at Slatyford Lane play area in Newcastle

Newcastle City Council recently announced £1.5m plans to upgrade Blakelaw Park, Riverside Country Park in Newburn, Elswick Park, and Ouseburn's City Stadium into "destination" family attractions featuring new audio, visual, and sensory play equipment.

But local authority bosses heard concerns this week that the investment could be hampered by vandalism and a lack of resources to repair damaged play parks.

Speaking at the council's overview and scrutiny committee on Thursday, Lib Dem councillor Mark Mitchell reported that fire damage to a play area in Slatyford had been left unrepaired since January as it had been deemed too costly - leaving "thousands of people suffering because of the actions of a few".