Vandalism condemned
Yobs who have set fire to children’s play parks in separate incidents over the last few weeks have been warned their behaviour is“reckless and dangerous”.
A number of recent incidents of anti-social behaviour have caused significant damage across a number of children’s play areas.
A fire damaged a play unit at the Avondale Play Area in Armadale causing thousands of pounds worth of damage. The unit has now been removed and a solution to replace it is being looked at.
Deliberate fires have also caused damage in the Broxburn area in recent months at Craigseaton Play Area and led to outdoor gym equipment being removed from Stewartfield Park.
West Lothian Council has condemned the thoughtless actions and the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service is urging the public to call the police if they see such behaviour.
A council spokesperson said:“These are examples of extremely reckless and dangerous behaviour. The damaged equipment is of a high standard and it is not a quick or easy job to replace the damaged units.
“We’d ask members of the public to be vigilant and to please report any incidents to Police Scotland by calling 101.”
Group commander for Falkirk and West Lothian, William Pollard added:“We take a zero-tolerance approach to deliberate fire setting in any location let alone play parks.
“The small minority of individuals responsible for this are potentially putting themselves and others at risk of serious harm and injury and these incidents are a needless drain on our resources.
“We will continue to work closely with our partners to ensure that those responsible are identified and held to account for their actions.”