A new play area for children opened just weeks ago has already become the target for vandals. The play equipment at Park Melin Mynach in Gorseinon was used for the first time last month, but has since been covered in graffiti, and some of the turf around it pulled up.
The damage is just the latest in a series of incidents at the venue over recent months, including a series of fires which have left burnt patches on the ground, as well as abandoned pallets and shopping trollies. A metal container has also been damaged by fire.
It is also alleged young people have been stealing items from people's gardens in the vicinity to set alight. Councillor Jan Curtice said: "It is a huge disappointment. We are trying to do something for the children and then this happens almost straight away. We are spending money on trying to make a pleasant environment for them, and it is like a kick in the teeth. It's heart wrenching really." You can get more Swansea news and other story updates by subscribing to our newsletters here.
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The play equipment in the park cost in the region of £125,000, and was jointly funded by Swansea Council and Gorseinon Town Council, as well as local councillors. The Friends of Park Melin Mynach said the latest incident, to the play equipment, was the the fourth of criminal damage in as many months.
Jade Kavarana, vice chair of the Friends of Melin Mynach added: "We are deeply saddened by the heartbreaking vandalism and destruction around Park Melin Mynach as well as the new play park that has been recently installed thanks to the combination of local councillors and Swansea Council.
"We want to bring the local community together in this park and it is a shame a minority of the community are destroying the hard work done in the park for the benefit of the majority"
The Friends of Park Melin Mynach hold a number of events throughout the year and are inviting members of the local community to join their team of volunteers. You can find out more about them here.
Local police inspector Simon Trick said: “We are aware that there have been incidents of anti-social behaviour and damage in Parc Melin Mynach and we are working closely with local partners to identify those responsible.
“I’d encourage people visiting the park to let us know of any anti-social behaviour issues they come across. If we know about it, we can work to tackle it. You can let us know at any time if there’s an emerging issue either in the park or the local area.
“Some comments we receive are about things that aren’t police matters however we do pass these comments to our partner agencies, such as the local council, so that they are aware and can look to tackle them.”
