A late-night arson attack has been carried out at the new children’s play area being built at Whiteway in Bath.
Fire-damaged equipment at the play area in Whiteway
We reported earlier this year that housing association Curo’s project to install new play equipment, including swings and toddler equipment at Whiteway Green had been awarded £40,000 of community funding.
The play area had been on course to be completed in time for the summer holidays.
Avon Fire & Rescue Service said: “We were called at 11:41pm on Saturday 22nd June to reports of a fire at a play area in Rosewarn Park, Bath.
“Crews from Bath attended and found a fire involving play equipment. Firefighters extinguished the blaze, and the cause of the fire is thought to be deliberate.”
A local resident has sent us a video of the fire and said it raised concerns about the safety and security of the neighbourhood, adding it was not the first time something had been set alight at this location.
Curo’s Director of Estates Services, Carl McMurtry said: “Curo works hard to provide spaces that are welcoming to all, and the new play area at Whiteway Green is a place for children and families to enjoy. That’s why this arson attack is so heartbreaking.
“We’re doing everything we can to engage with the community, and we’ve been working with local groups to improve the park for everyone.
“The playground was almost complete, but because of this senseless attack, the reopening will inevitably now be delayed.
“If we need to find the money to rectify the damage, then that will also have a negative knock-on effect, as it means there is less money to spend on other community projects.
“We’re aware that there are problems with anti-social behaviour in the area, and we continue to work with the police.
“Behaviour like this is unacceptable, and we need the community to work with us to send the message that it won’t be tolerated.
“If anyone has any information then we would urge them to contact us or the police as soon as possible.”
A spokesperson for Avon & Somerset Police said: “An arson offence has been recorded after play equipment in Rosewarn Close was damaged in a fire.
“If you witnessed this incident or have any information or footage which could help our enquiries, please call 101 and quote reference 5224164924.”
