Exercise equipment at a park has been cordoned off as a result of vandalism.
North Herts District Council’s (NHDC) adult exercise zone at Newmarket Road, Royston, will now stay closed until the full extent of the damage can be assessed and repaired. The cost of repairing the dismantled exercise equipment is expected to cost over £1,500.
Following the initial incident, vandals also subsequently damaged security fencing, installed to prevent the community from being harmed by the damaged equipment. The security fencing has now been replaced at a further cost to the council.
NHDC is appealing to the public to come forward with any information about the vandalism. Meanwhile, additional patrols of the area are being carried out by the police who are working closely with the council’s grounds maintenance team to prevent further acts of anti-social behaviour.
Cllr Ian Knighton, NHDC’s portfolio holder for leisure, said: “I am appalled that a few individuals have gone to such lengths to destroy exercise equipment that has been provided for the enjoyment of the whole community.
“Sadly, it is taxpayers who have to pay the price for the repairs to the equipment, which is why I would encourage anyone who has any information about the culprits to come forward.”
If you have any information about the incident please contact the Hertfordshire Constabulary on their non-emergency number 101 quoting crime reference number G4-13-683.
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