Praise for council response to Milnrow Memorial Park vandalism

Rochdale Borough Council has agreed to start work on the new £10,000 upgrade and relocation of CCTV in Milnrow Memorial Park after the play area was vandalised with a tin of white gloss paint on Monday (31 October). 

• www.rochdaleonline.co.uk/news-features/138/community-news/105947/vandals-pour-paint-on-play-area-at-milnrow-memorial-park

The swift response has been praised by Milnrow and Newhey councillors.

Councillor Andy Kelly said: "I would like to thank the officers for the speed in which the clean-up team came out and jet washed the paint damage away. I was on the phone first thing, as was Councillor Davidson - they reacted brilliantly. Had it been left another day, I'm sure it would have been more serious and costly.

"When the CCTV is up and running, I will be sending a clear message to local people, if you cause damage to our park we will catch and punish you.

“The Memorial Park is one of the jewels in our crown enjoyed by so many local people. We won't tolerate anybody damaging it."

Councillor Irene Davidson, who is a member of the Friends of the Milnrow Park, said: "I will be visiting local schools to highlight our new security systems at the park and to educate them into respecting our recreational facilities."

The work will be funded with £1,000 raised by the Friends of the Milnrow Park, Community Safety, Environmental Management and Township funds.