Fury as £400k play zone is vandalised

Local Police officers are hunting a gang of young vandals who stole supermarket trolleys and set fire to them in an Erewash play park – just months after the borough council spent £400,000 turning it into a showcase children’s fun zone.

Fire crews found up to three of the cardboard-filled carts ablaze after they were called to the play mecca in Long Eaton’s West Park just before 7pm.

Dramatic pictures posted online sparked outrage from townsfolk. 

Councillor Josy Hare – who is Erewash Borough Council Lead Member for Health and Wellbeing – said: “Thankfully there was minimal damage and we have not had to close the playground. But we share the anger of residents at this mindless behaviour. There are now scorch marks on the surface of what was a pristine play area.”

A witness said: “It was young lads and girls mucking about. We went past just before it happened. We looked back and we saw two fires going up. They were all laughing and running around. They thought it was really funny. Just no respect.”

Ann Toplis was among more than 100 locals who vented their fury on Facebook. She said: “What's wrong with these people? All the money spent on new equipment for our kids and grandchildren. It’s so sad and makes me so angry.” Police confirmed officers were sent to the park as fire crews extinguished the blazing trolleys on Tuesday evening (4th February). A spokesman said: “Investigations into the incident are ongoing.”

The carts of cardboard are believed to have been wheeled to the park after being pinched from a supermarket in the town. The borough council is now liaising with the store to ensure trolleys are kept more secure.

The playground – featuring attractions including a giant twisting tube, bridges and a rocking boat – was officially opened by Erewash Deputy Mayor Councillor Harry Atkinson in November 2024. It took six months to build – using money the council secured from the government's Shared Prosperity Fund. 

Anyone with any information about the vandalism is asked to contact Derbyshire Police, quoting reference 25*70269.