LOCALS DISGUSTED FOLLOWING AN ARSON ATTACK ON A SALFORD PARK AS JUVENILE ARRESTED

An arson attack which caused at least £25,000 worth of damage at a children’s play area has been condemned by Salford City Council.

The area at Lord Street Park, Cadishead, underwent a £90,000 upgrade in late 2021 with new play equipment including a wheelchair accessible roundabout, swings for children with disabilities or parents and toddlers, a new adventure trail and a safer rubber surface underneath.

The attack happened last night (Tuesday 4 April) and Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service attended.

This morning Tony Flynn spoke to Irlam and Cadishead councillor Lewis Nelson and Craig from the Friends of Lordy Park Group about the fire which has seen the play area closed for the foreseeable future.

Police have since confirmed that a juvenile has been arrested for Arson in connection with the fire.

Director of Service Reform at Salford City Council, Debbie Brown said:

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“This is heart breaking news for the Friends of Lordy Park and everyone who worked so hard with us to make the park more accessible for children with disabilities. It is an appalling and mindless attack on them and the local community.

“The monkey bars and wooden steps are fire damaged and will have to be removed and several fence panels will have to be replaced. We have had a crew on site this morning clearing up the ash and jet washing the safety surface so we can assess any damage there, but we are very much hoping to have it open for the Easter weekend so the children of Cadishead are not deprived of their much-loved play area through this senseless attack. 

“We will be working with Greater Manchester Police to find those responsible and bring them to justice. I urge anyone who has any information to do the right thing and contact the police or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111, which can be done anonymously.”

Photo ©: Salford City Council