ANTI-social youngsters have been locked out of a park by new security gates.
Heath Grove Park in Little Sutton has had the gates installed thanks to two local ward councillors.
Councillors Myles Hogg and Graham Smith have donated £1,437 of their member grant budgets to provide a secure gate at the entrance to the park, after being approached for help by the Heath Grove Residents Association.
The site – a well-used local facility with a children’s play area, basketball net, mini goal posts and plenty of open space - is valued by parents with young children, older independent children and responsible dog owners.
Councillor Hogg said: “Heath Grove Park is a much-used local facility, however in recent times there has been some misuse of the park to the detriment of legitimate users and local residents.
“I am delighted that we have been able to help out – the old gate was ineffective in terms of out-of-hours security and had been vandalised on a number of occasions. The new gate is modern and can be locked during non-daylight hours – helping to preserve the park for its responsible users.”
The new gate also enables wheelchair and mobility scooter access – something not previously available at the park’s entrance.
Councillor Smith said: “The new gate now installed at the entrance to the park is a much-needed improvement which will benefit the park in both appearance and functionality.
“Local residents and regular users seemed very pleased with the additional security the installation of the new gate provides. It is hoped that going forward, further improvements to the park can be suggested for discussion with the Council.”
