Anger as Vandals Trash Newly Refurbished Play Park

Published: 13 February 2024

Mindless vandals have trashed a newly refurbished children's play park on Glasgow's southside.

Several pieces of freshly installed play equipment in Bonnyholm Avenue have been damaged just months after the facility reopened to the public followed a major upgrade costing around £160,000.

The play area was among the first in the city to be refurbished by the city council, as part of a £6million programme of investment in play parks taking place across the city over the next five years.

Officers from Police Scotland are investigating the crime which saw a swing, a conical climbing frame and a see-saw damaged.

Councillor Ruairi Kelly, Glasgow's Convener for Neighbourhood Services and Assets, described the vandalism as "appalling" and urged members of the public to be vigilant and report any suspicious activity to the police.

He said: "It is extremely disappointing and frustrating that this vibrant new community facility has been extensively damaged just months after re-opening to local children. A lot of time, effort and money went into the refurbishment and it is absolutely infuriating that shameless vandals have ruined it, with no thought for the upset youngsters who couldn't use several pieces of equipment.

"Sadly, the damaged items had to be cordoned off - denying local children the chance to enjoy them. It will take time and additional money to repair the equipment. It's absolutely appalling.

"I'd urge anyone with information about the vandalism or the culprits to contact Police Scotland immediately."

A total of 133 Glasgow play parks will be refurbished by the council over the next five years. New toddlers' play areas have just been installed at Garrowhill Park, Tobago Street and Cavendish Street Play Area. Kelvindale Community Playpark, Glasgow Green Play Village, Beardmore Park Play Area, Govanhill Park, and Kelvingrove Park Play Areas all recently reopened after being upgraded.

A new free-to-use outdoor gym has also been installed in Ruchill Park with everything needed for a full body workout, including a chin-up bar, a vertical ladder, an arched overhead ladder, a sit bench and a leg-raise station.

More information on the planned play park refurbishments can be found here.