Chesterfield’s much-loved Queen’s Park is being blighted by vandalism - and town leaders have vowed to take action.
Broken swings, a smashed window at the cricket pavilion, damaged wall and hedges pulled out are just some of the recent attacks.
Chesterfield Borough Council is now working with the police to clamp down on anti-social behaviour -– which could see yobs faced with £500 fines.
Cllr Chris Ludlow, member for the environment at the borough council said: “Queen’s Park is a much loved part of Chesterfield and is used all year round by thousands of residents and visitors.
“We won’t stand by and let this thoughtless vandalism spoil what is a beautiful and cherished part of our borough.”
Most of the damage and reports have happened during the evenings and after the park has been closed and police believe a group of youths are responsible for the attacks.
The vandalism is costing council chiefs hundreds of pounds to repair and now patrols have been stepped up in a bid to catch the offenders.
Officers alongside staff from council will be walking around the park, off Boythorpe Road, to deter people from using it after hours.
PCSO Hannah Blockwell of the Holmebrook and Rother safer neighbourhood policing team said: “The damage has been costly for the council to repair, and it is unfair to other people who want to enjoy the facilities during the daytime.
“We will be working with the council to address these issues around anti-social behaviour by carrying out regular patrols, and officers will be taking action against any offenders.”
Anyone found in the grounds after the park closes at 6pm could be fined.
The park was opened in 1887 to commemorate Queen Victoria’s Golden Jubilee and is a popular venue for families.
Gates open from 8am each day.
To report vandalism contact the Holmebrook and Rother Safer Neighbourhood Policing Team on the non emergency number 101 or email chesterfield.neighbourhoods@derbyshire.pnn.police.uk
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