New play park vandalised within days of opening in blow to Barton families

A newly opened play park in Barton-upon-Humber has been damaged by fire and vandalism less than a week after opening, leaving the community deeply disappointed.

The £150,000 upgrade at Baysgarth Park, delivered by North Lincolnshire Council in partnership with the Friends of Barton Parks and local organisations, had only just opened to families when the inclusive roundabout was set on fire and graffiti appeared on several new play items.

Thanks to a successful grant, a new CCTV system will be installed at Baysgarth Park and is expected to be live by the end of the month, helping to protect the area moving forward.

While the equipment at Baysgarth Park has been cleaned and is now operational, these incidents are not isolated. Similar acts of vandalism have also been reported at parks in Parkwood and Asterby Road, as well as in Riddings, where a roundabout has been damaged beyond repair.

Cllr Rob Waltham, leader of North Lincolnshire Council, said: “This is completely unacceptable and frankly infuriating. Significant public money has been invested here to create something positive for families, and a small minority have chosen to damage it almost immediately.

“It’s selfish, destructive behaviour and it will not be tolerated. We will do everything we can to support the police in identifying those responsible and ensuring they are held to account.”

Cllr Paul Vickers, ward councillor for Barton and chair of the Friends of Barton Parks, said: “This is really upsetting for everyone involved, but especially for the families and children who were already enjoying the new play area.

“A lot of time, care and community effort went into creating this space. To see it damaged so quickly is a real blow and will be disappointing for many local residents who were looking forward to using it over the coming weeks.”

The council is working with the Friends of Barton Parks, local businesses and nearby CCTV operators to gather evidence, which will be shared with Humberside Police to support any potential prosecution.

Anyone with information is encouraged to contact Humberside Police.