A CHILDREN’S playground has reopened in Brampton after it had to close because of vandalism.

The new play park, in Murray Park, opened last week – just in time for half term.

Councillor Jenni Errington, chairman of the parish council, which is responsible for the park, said: “The play equipment was supplied by Kompan and has been funded through the county council, Section 106 funds and parish council reserves.

“The multi-play unit is suitable for the age group two-plus and offers up to 21 different types of play activities.

“The unit also has an ADA stairway allowing for a roomy climb, with room for an assistant if needed. We hope children enjoy the new piece of equipment.

“We are still looking for funding to replace the swings and the springer which will cost in the region of £4,000 to £5,000.”

In August she sounded a warning to parents after youths were blamed for vandalising the area in a string of incidents over the summer. At an online parish council meeting on July 28 it was also mentioned that vandals had previously attempted to set light to a park bench.

Councillor Errington said youths were to blame. At the time she said: “We have had quite a lot of vandalism in the past four to six weeks.

“We’ve had to close the children’s multi play area of the park because of the damage.”

At the time Mrs Errington added: “I think it must be youths, I don’t know particularly who is doing it.

“It is a shame because they just make it worse for themselves and I think it is a case of talking to parents to make sure they know what there children are doing. It’s a question of getting the message out.”

On October 9 last year firefighters were called out a number of times to the park because of vandalism. A spokesman for the Brampton Volunteer Fire Station said a bin and bench were set on fire. He added: “[The] incidents have been passed to police.”