A new playground being built by a North East Somerset housing provider in Bath has been delayed after an arson attack when it was “almost complete.”
The new playground for children and toddlers in Rosewarn Park in Whiteway was set on fire on the evening of Saturday, June 22. The £40,000 play equipment was being installed by housing association Curo.
Carl McMurty, Curo’s director of estates, said: “The playground was almost complete, but because of this senseless attack, the reopening will inevitably now be delayed. If we need to find the money to rectify the damage, then that will also have a negative knock-on effect, as it means there is less money to spend on other community projects.
“Curo works hard to provide spaces that are welcoming to all, and the new play area at Whiteway Green is a place for children and families to enjoy. That’s why this arson attack is so heartbreaking.
“We’re doing everything we can to engage with the community, and we have been working with local groups to improve the park for everyone.”
A neighbour told the Local Democracy Reporting Service: “This isn’t the first time there’s been a fire in that park. I’m worried that they might start setting houses on fire next, which could lead to a tragedy.”
A spokesperson from Avon Fire and Rescue Service said: “We were called at 11:41pm on Saturday, June 22, to reports of a fire at a play area in Rosewarn Park, Bath. Crews from Bath attended and found a fire involving play equipment.
“Firefighters extinguished the blaze. The cause of the fire is thought to be deliberate.”
Mr McMurty added: “We’re aware that there are problems with anti-social behaviour in the area, and we continue to work with the police. Behaviour like this is unacceptable, and we need the community to work with us to send the message that it won’t be tolerated.
“If anyone has any information then we would urge them to contact us or the police as soon as possible.”
A spokesperson for Avon and Somerset Police said: “An arson offence has been recorded after play equipment in Rosewarn Close was damaged in a fire.”
Anybody who witness the incident, has any information or footage which assist Avon and Somerset Police are urged to call 101 quoting crime reference number 5224164924