McJerrow Park’s play equipment underwent a costly makeover recently and was re-opened to the public this month.
But Lockerbie mum Mandy Patterson has shared her concerns for the new flagship park, fearing it won’t stand the test of time as young people are already mistreating it.
She said: “All involved in creating the park have done a great job.
“My only concern is it certainly ain’t going to last long the way the older kids are treating it.”
Earlier this week Mandy and her son, who is in P1, witnessed older children shaking bottles of fizzy juice before launching them across the play park and watching them explode.
Other parents have witnessed similar irresponsible behaviour and shared Mandy’s concerns, with calls being made to install CCTV.
Last week it was publicly announced that McJerrow Park will be given a £500,000 donation from the Lockerbie Trust.
The trust, created in 1991 from donations following the air disaster,
is set to be wound up and trustees selected the central park as their swansong project.
Public consultation is set to take place to establish how residents want to see the cash invested in the park. Ideas so far include a stage area and zip slide.
Lockerbie Community Council chairwoman Jan Andrews, who applied for the half million sum on behalf of the community group, is disappointed to hear of some youngsters’ behaviour.
She said: “CCTV may be needed to be factored in to the further development of the park, however it’s absolutely ridiculous to think the park has been there 65 years without it and without damage to the park.”
She added: “The park will be developed further and hopefully equipment will be provided for the older youths.
“The park development is to encourage families and children to enjoy, not to be destroyed by older youths.
“I would suggest if anyone sees youths destroying the park to contact the police.”
Police say that while no incidents have been formally reported, they will pay extra attention to the site and increase patrols in the area.
And Annandale North Councillor Adam Wilson has also vowed that the local authority will do all it can to protect the park.
Mr Wilson said: “Having fought for funding for an inclusive play park, I am delighted to see it open. This is a significant investment in the heart of Lockerbie which I know will be enjoyed by many.
“If anti social behaviour does occur the council will take steps to protect local people and equipment but where similar investments in parks have been made no anti social behaviour has occurred.”
