New CCTV cameras to be installed at Wakefield park vandalised less than a week after reopening

EXTRA CCTV cameras will be installed to protect a popular Wakefield playground which was torched less than a week after it reopened following an £80,000 upgrade.

The vandalism at Jubilee Hall Play Park in Lupset has been described as “frustrating and nonsensical” by trustee of Jubilee Community Centre, Councillor Hillary Mitchell.

Police community support officers discovered a fire at the wooden fence and dirt on the brand new equipment late on Wednesday and alerted the fire service and community centre.

Coun Mitchell said: “Whilst the damage is minimal, we are adding more cameras to protect the play area and the children that frequent it.

“We are working with West Yorkshire Police to go through the CCTV footage to find the perpetrators. We have high hopes that the extra cameras will deter people from causing further damage.”

Councillor Michael Graham helped to secure funds for the revamp.

He said: “Local officers are working hard to identify suspects, engage with the local community and assist Jubilee Hall with crime prevention.

“Local officers have downloaded CCTV images which are being reviewed and suspects arrested when they have the evidence. Officers have stepped up local patrols, reassurance and engagement in the area.”

The additional cameras were already due to be fitted by the council but they are trying to fit them as soon as possible.

Wakefield Council confirmed that the fire damage is covered by insurance and are in the process of getting a quote for the repairs.

Just last week the play area was reopened last week after undergoing £80,000 worth of refurbishment.

It features new toddler and junior play equipment which includes a new roundabout, see-saw, trim trail, overhead rotator, and a large single point swing for multi-user and inclusive play.

The council supported the play area with £60,000 of the funding from the Local Authorities Park Improvement Fund and £20,000 from the Local Capital Grants where councillors can dedicate funds to projects that will benefit the lives of people living in Wakefield.

Anyone with any information should contact police on 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.