Toilets vandalised just hours after re-opening

Public toilets at Rossmere Park which were the worst hit, and Ward Jackson Park opened again Saturday after being closed during the period of lockdown.

But sanitiser gel dispensers were soon ripped from walls at both toilet blocks, and a fire was started in a hand basin at the Rossmere Park toilets.

A fire was started in a hand basin at the Rossmere Park toilets

People who visited either park over the weekend and nearby residents are being asked to call the police on 101 if they have any information.

Sarah Scarr, Heritage and Countryside Manager at Hartlepool Borough Council, said: “It is particularly upsetting that this should happen given that we had issued an appeal for people to respect the facilities when they re-opened.

“Although we have been able to keep the toilets open despite the damage, if vandalism continues to occur then we will be left with no option other than to close them – denying people of a vital amenity.

“We would urge visitors and residents to act as our eyes and ears at all times and to call the police if they see damage being caused or spot anyone acting suspiciously.”

Meanwhile, the Council has issued a reminder over social distancing and the need to maintain good personal hygiene following the re-opening of children’s play areas at Seaton Front, Rossmere Park, Ward Jackson Park, Clavering, King George V Recreation Ground and Summerhill Country Park.

These were the first to re-open as part of the easing of lockdown restrictions, and a number of others around the town remain temporarily closed.

The Council’s dedicated team of Community Street Ambassadors, launched last week to provide a reassurance presence on the ground, will also be out and about encouraging people to enjoy parks and open spaces responsibly.

Where play areas are still shut, people are asked to respect their continued closure following reports of attempts to gain access to play areas at Seaton Park and Burn Valley Gardens.