DARTFORD: Security at Hesketh Park to be increased

VANDALISM in Hesketh Park is so bad the council is reviewing security and considering bringing in CCTV cameras to catch the louts in action.

The move follows complaints from clubs who say sports coaches are reluctant to use the club off Park Road in Dartford.

Dartford Cricket Club, which is based at the park has had its scoreboard and astro-turf ripped up and claimed children were being attacked in broad daylight.

Other vandalism victims are Hesketh Bowls Club and Age Concern which runs a day centre at the park.

A spokesman for Dartford Cricket Club said: "Vandalism is ruining the atmosphere in the park.

"Even children were being attacked in broad day light.

"This type of activity has put a lot of people off who might have come out on their own for some exercise.

"If there was park security, which there used to be, then more people would play sport."

The park was managed by council staff including park keepers and gardeners, up until 1992.

It is now protected by a security company whose contract is up for renewal,

And a new five-year management plan for the park's future has also been put together.

A Dartford Council spokesman said: "The council has now reviewed the existing security contract with the aim of providing a better service to users and residents.

"The provision of CCTV has been investigated.

"Any installation of cameras would be dependent on a successful bid for funding in a future year's budget.

"The co-operation of local people in monitoring and reporting incidents in the park is very much appreciated and should be continued."

Other plans will be prepared for Darenth Country Park, Central Park, Dartford Heath and Darenth Woods.

December 10, 2001 13:03

Ed Hadfield