Every piece of equipment at the new £178,000 play park in Finch Woods, Halewood, has been spray painted, with trees and safety surfacing also damaged. The park, which was due to open for families this week, has been left strewn with plastic bags.
Council leader 'absolutely furious'
Cllr Graham Morgan, Leader of Knowsley Council, said: "I am absolutely furious to see the damage that has occurred at Finch Woods. There is absolutely no reasoning behind this kind of mindless behaviour, but the impact is significant."
He added: "The cost to repair the equipment, remove the paint and assess any safety implications or wider damage will run into thousands of pounds. But it is the impact on the local community that sickens me the most. These facilities were due to open in time for local families to make the most of the park during the summer holidays and now that will be delayed due to the actions of a small number of people."
Police investigating
The incident has been reported as a crime, and the council is working with Merseyside Police to review CCTV from the area. Cllr Morgan said: "Let's be absolutely clear, we will take every step possible to find those responsible and ensure they understand the impact of their actions."
Knowsley Council is investing £1m in Finch Woods, funded by Section 106 developer contributions from the East of Halewood housing development. The project includes a new play area with separate junior and toddler sections connected by a sensory path, featuring equipment for ages 0-14, including swings, slides, climbing frames, accessible equipment, and sensory panels.
Repairs to take priority
Finishing touches were planned for this week, with the park expected to open in the coming days. Now the council will focus on repairing the damage and ensuring the park is safe to use. Cllr Morgan said: "We will work round the clock to get this park repaired and open for the local community to enjoy. But given that this damage has occurred even before the park has officially opened really does concern me."
He urged the community for support, saying: "If you know anything about this please get in touch. Maybe you have spotted blue or yellow spray paints on clothes or hands or maybe you saw something over the weekend. Any information is important and will be treated confidentially."
Anyone with information is encouraged to contact Merseyside Police via 101 quoting crime reference 26000645447, via the Merseyside Police website, or by direct message on Facebook and X @MerPolCC.
