An investigation has been launched after two litter bins were set alight at a County Durham play area which could now be forced to close.
Esh Parish Council said the Bobby Robson play area in Langley Park has been repeatedly targeted by vandals, with the latest incident causing significant damage to flooring and fencing.
Durham Police said it is thought the bins were set on fire between 5pm on Friday, August 7, and 7am on Monday, August 10, at the Bobby Robson Community Park.
Bobby Robson play area, Langley Park, Durham
(Image: SARAH CALDECOTT)
One of the bins, located in the toddler play area, was “well ablaze”, according to the council.
The fire caused significant damage to a bin, the rubber flooring and fence panels, while rocks and broken glass were also found strewn across the site.
A spokesperson for Durham Police said: “It is thought that at some point between 5pm on Friday, August 7, and 7am on Monday, August 10, two bins were set on fire at the Bobby Robson Community Park.
“The fires caused damage to the flooring and fencing surrounding the park.
“A police investigation has been launched and enquiries into the incident are ongoing.”
Bobby Robson play area, Langley Park, Durham
(Image: SARAH CALDECOTT)
In a statement posted online, Esh Parish Council said: “We are saddened to be reporting vandalism once again to the Bobby Robson play area.
“Over the weekend two litter bins have been set alight, with the one in the toddler play area being well ablaze.”
The council said the park was refurbished at significant cost around a year ago but has been targeted by vandals several times since.
Parish councillors have previously cleaned up graffiti at the site themselves, but said the latest damage is too extensive and specialist companies will now need to be brought in to carry out repairs.
Bobby Robson play area, Langley Park, Durham
(Image: SARAH CALDECOTT)
The council added: “This will cost money which could be put to better use for the community.
“A few people are spoiling it for the majority.
“This is a resource for the community that should be enjoyed.
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“The likelihood now is that the play area will have to close until the repairs are carried out.”
The latest incident follows a separate report of vandalism at the play area in June, when white paint was tipped over the surface of the children’s play area.
Anyone with information which could help officers should call Durham Constabulary on 101, quoting crime reference CRI00700135.