Concerns over vandalism and anti-social behaviour at Chesterfield nature reserve

Concerns have been raised over vandalism and anti-social behaviour at a nature reserve in Chesterfield.
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Norbriggs Flash Nature Reserve, in Staveley, is a haven for wildlife and a popular spot for walkers as it has great links to Chesterfield Canal as well as other footpaths which lead into the surrounding countryside.

However, it has recently been blighted by acts of vandalism with residents reporting ‘numerous fires’ being lit in the area among other incidents.

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In the ‘Staveley and surrounding areas’ Facebook group, Sid Morris said: “Is there anyone in authority on this site that can get some action on here, numerous fires are being lit, some in random grass and scrub areas, fences being vandalised for burning, someone is building a shelter in the scrub area, complete with Morrisons shopping trolley!

Concerns have been raised over vandalism and fires being set at Norbriggs Flash Nature Reserve in StaveleyConcerns have been raised over vandalism and fires being set at Norbriggs Flash Nature Reserve in Staveley
Concerns have been raised over vandalism and fires being set at Norbriggs Flash Nature Reserve in Staveley

"I've managed to collect two bags of discarded waste including broken bottles, this is supposed to be a nature reserve, and if the fires continue we may not have a reserve for locals to enjoy, cheers.”

The news sparked concern among residents, with some calling for more action from Chesterfield Borough Council – the authority responsible for looking after the nature reserve.

Marion Thorpe said: “Really sorry to hear terrible vandalism! There you used to be police patrols on a regular basis. Don’t know if it would do the trick? Good on you picking up debris/litter! Derbyshire Wildlife might suggest a warden patrol?”

Concerns have been raised over vandalism and fires being set at Norbriggs Flash Nature Reserve in StaveleyConcerns have been raised over vandalism and fires being set at Norbriggs Flash Nature Reserve in Staveley
Concerns have been raised over vandalism and fires being set at Norbriggs Flash Nature Reserve in Staveley
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Zoé Golightly added: “This just highlights the need for provisions for teenagers. In lots of ways they’re trying to do something that doesn’t bother people (out of the way, lighting a fire and hanging out) but obviously it isn’t appropriate and does lead to further problems (vandalism).

"How great would it be to have graffiti art workshops or bushcraft sessions? Things like this have been successful in other areas of chesterfield but unfortunately the funding always dries up and they have very little options but to do their own thing again.”

A spokesperson for Chesterfield Borough Council, said: “We work closely with Derbyshire Constabulary and Derbyshire Fire and Rescue Service through our Community Safety Partnership to tackle anti-social behaviour.

Concerns have been raised over vandalism and fires being set at Norbriggs Flash Nature Reserve in StaveleyConcerns have been raised over vandalism and fires being set at Norbriggs Flash Nature Reserve in Staveley
Concerns have been raised over vandalism and fires being set at Norbriggs Flash Nature Reserve in Staveley

"If you spot anyone starting fires please call 999 and please report anti-social behaviour by calling 101 or using the form on the Derbyshire Constabulary website: www.derbyshire.police.uk/ro/report/asb/asb/report-antisocial-behaviour.”

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