A Peterhead park has been padlocked shut after being vandalised just weeks after reopening.
Vandals entered the newly opened Victoria Park following an inspection by a Peterhead Area Community Trust (Pact) committee member at 8pm on Tuesday, June 7.
Following another check the next day, there was found to be extensive damage to benches and flowers that had been planted for the community.
There was also broken glass strewn around the park, causing a safety hazard to young children, families and dog owners who use the park.
Victoria Park opened last month following a £1 million refurbishment led by Peterhead Community Trust.
Police are now appealing for anyone with information to come forward, with the park closed until further notice.
Inspector Rory Campbell of Peterhead said: “It is both disheartening and frustrating to see that a green space that has been created to be inclusive for all members of the community is being abused and damaged by a small proportion of community members.
“This has resulted in the park being closed until further notice, there has been significant funding raised in order to create this space and the cost for repairs is causing a significant impact on the group and the community.
“We will again have patrols in the area to ensure that individuals who are there for the purpose of causing damage and disruption are dealt with robustly.”
‘Absolutely disgusted at vandalism’
Banff and Buchan MP David Duguid said: “I’m absolutely disgusted at the vandalism which has happened at Victoria Park.
“A lot of hard work has gone into creating this attraction by Peterhead Community Trust only for it to be destroyed by some mindless individuals.
“Children and families have enjoyed using this fantastic facility since it opened and I’m appalled this has now happened.
“I hope those responsible for this terrible act are caught and I would urge anyone who may have witnessed these incidents to get in touch with the police immediately.”
Vice-chairman of Pact, Graeme Mackie said: “Its coming to a point where people are saying don’t go to Victoria Park because, it’s an absolute nightmare.
“There’s strewn litter everywhere and even when people put their litter in the bin, they are emptying the contents of the bins. The place is a mess all the time.”
Conversation