‘Senseless vandalism’ continues in Oldham’s parks
Repeated acts of vandalism, including destroyed entry gates and a dismantled picnic bench, have targeted Linear Park in Royton, Oldham. The council and local residents are urging the public to report information to the police, while a local councillor has pledged to replace the bench with a more durable version. The incidents are part of a broader rise in anti-social behaviour in the area.
Vandals Destroy Gates and Picnic Bench at Royton’s Linear Park
Two entry gates and a picnic bench have been destroyed at Linear Park in Royton during a two-week spree of vandalism that has left local residents sickened and angry.
The mindless thugs dismantled the entire picnic bench and threw it into nearby Salmon Fields, while also destroying both entry gates to the community space. Though the gates have since been repaired, the council and local residents groups are urging anyone with information about the incidents to contact police.
Coun Chris Goodwin, Oldham council’s cabinet member for Don’t Trash Oldham, condemned the destruction: “This senseless act of vandalism is disgraceful. A community space has been ripped up which we’ll now have to repair when people should be enjoying it over the bank holiday. This is not what Oldham or Royton is about. Anyone with any information should report it to the police so those responsible can be held accountable for their idiotic actions.”
Local councillor Maggie Hurley, from the Royton Independents, has stepped forward to fund a replacement bench using her ward budget. The new steel version will be more durable in an effort to keep the community space vibrant and welcoming.
The vandalism, first reported online by the Royton Independents and Friends of Royton Linear Park, has sparked outrage among residents. Many described the destruction as “simply unbelievable” and “very saddening,” with some noting it reflects a broader increase in anti-social behaviour including illegal quad bike use, fly-tipping, and youths on e-bikes racing through streets while wearing balaclavas.
The attack marks another blow for Oldham’s parks following recent incidents including repeated vandalism of a pandemic memorial in Shaw during April and the removal of a Nazi swastika carved into Dogford Park’s lawn in March.
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