Bridgwater Town Council has praised the swift actions of CCTV operators after they detected and reported a fire deliberately lit beneath the climbing frame in the children’s play area at Northgate Yard on Wednesday 12 November.
Operators in the CCTV control room spotted the fire in real time and immediately alerted the emergency services, enabling the fire service to respond within minutes. Thanks to their rapid intervention, the smouldering fire was quickly extinguished before it could spread or cause significant damage.
Following the incident, Bridgwater Town Council operatives attended the site to inspect and clean the affected area, ensuring that the play equipment remains safe and fully accessible to the public.
Councillor Tim Mander, Chair of the Amenities Committee said,
“We are appalled by these senseless acts of vandalism, but we are immensely proud of the vigilance shown by the CCTV team and the swift response from the fire service. Their quick actions prevented what could have been a far more serious incident. Our parks should be safe havens for children and families and we will continue to do everything possible to protect and maintain them.”
Northgate Yard remains open to the public, and the Town Council will continue to monitor the area closely to maintain a safe and welcoming environment for all.
Members of the public are urged to remain vigilant. Anyone who witnesses suspicious behaviour is encouraged to report it immediately by visiting www.avonandsomerset.police.uk/report/anti-social-behaviour
