Vandals put park at risk

THE future of the skate park at Oak Pit in Hollins, is under threat after yet another attack by vandals.

The £250,000 skate park was opened in April last year, but now risks closure through safety fears.

Councillor John McCann, cabinet member for community services and housing, is appealing for the local community to join forces to stamp out the vandalism.

He said: “It is this mindless vandalism that drives many to either despair or anger as so much time, effort and money is wasted due to a few individuals.

“I can only hope they are caught and punished —rather than reprimanded — which may serve as a lesson for other people.”

Vandals have caused thousands of pounds damage in this latest attack, which saw safety rails stolen.

The park was heralded as a much-needed local recreational facility when it opened, transforming part of the former colliery for local skateboarders.

Now managers of the site are urging anyone who knows who is behind the vandalism to report it to the council or police.

It can be done anonymously by calling Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Glenn Dale, Oldham’s horticultural services manager said: “The park is intended for young people to enjoy.

“We have a thriving skateboarding community here, but for over a year these mindless acts of vandalism have spoilt this for young people.”

He added: “The truth is that we cannot keep repairing these acts of vandalism.

“Every time we need to fix the park because of vandalism it costs us thousands of pounds, and we just can’t afford to keep doing it.”

The attack on the skatepark is the latest in a spate of railing thefts across Oldham, including at Chapel Road synthetic pitch, Hollinwood.