Over the last few months, a considerable amount of money has been spent on this one amenity area alone, which has included:
Re-fixing the goal posts – £130
New safety padding on a basketball post – £125
Topping up of the sand pit – £650
Replacement wooden edging on the footpath – £60
Annual inspection – £180
It was very disappointing to note that the edging was only in place a few days before being completely ripped off. In addition and in the same timeframe, the red bin had been set alight causing damage to the top and side. The contents, including several empty bottles and tins of alcohol, had melted together. Possible in an attempt to tamper the fire, a large block of concrete had been rammed into the bin, preventing it from being used any further.
These are the most recent occurences but were not isolated incidents. On nearly every occasion that the red bin has been emptied this year, there have been several inches of sand in the bottom. It is difficult to understand why anyone would spend time decanting this away from a pit designed for infants and wasting it in this way.
In a similar vein, the drainage holes in the pump track are routinely filled with cans, bottles and food wrappers. Human waste has also been located at the far end of the park. The safety ties on the basketball post padding have already been removed which means that the padding is likely to keep sliding down.
Children were seen removing the cement between the stones on the walls. In some places it was possible to see the lane through the gaps made in the wall.
The Recreation Ground is subject to a health and safety inspection on an annual basis. As a result of the last one, an infant swing was taken out of service earlier this year. It is worth noting that this same swing had been fixed on previous occasions but is now past the point of repair. The reason being that the fixing holes are too big, having been stretched due to older children, and in some cases, adults sitting on top of the basket.
The Parish Council has a duty of care towards children and families making use of the grounds. The priority must always be safety. The equipment is designed to be used by children, and the Recreation ground itself is not intended for young people over the age of 16. Of course, some youths do make use of the football pitch and this has long been accepted as long as it doesn’t extend to other activities that do not comply with the by-laws which apply to the site.
The Parish Council has received requests for a new infant swing and additional new equipment. A replacement new swing must meet British safety standards. This will considered in due course in light of other budget demands and once other repairs and improvements have taken place. It would be very easy to spend most of the parish precept on the Recreation Ground but the Parish Council is mindful that it must try to serve all areas of our community.
The Council has resolved not to increase the tax imposed upon residents in recent years being mindful of the current financial situation. It cannot accept such mindless vandalism especially in view of the monetary cost to residents, and the inconvenience to others using the facility. It is hoped that residents will be vigilant and be prepared to challenge any misuse witnessed when using the grounds. Alternatively, damage can be reported to any member of the Parish Council or the PArish Clerk at: clerk@carletonincravenparishcouncil.gov.uk.
Thank you.