Bridgwater Town Council is disappointed to report the inappropriate use of several of its children’s play areas, resulting in safety concerns, damage to equipment, and significant disruption for families who use these spaces responsibly.
During recent routine inspections, it was identified that the toddler play area at Victoria Park and the play area at Bower Ponds have been used as dog agility areas, with children’s play equipment being utilised for this purpose. This behaviour presents serious safety and hygiene risks.
At Victoria Park, inspections revealed paw prints on play equipment and safety surfacing, disturbed grass, significant mud and several instances of dog faeces. The area was left in a condition that was not safe for children to use. Closed-Circuit Television (CCTV) footage has also captured three large dogs and two smaller dogs, along with their owners and a child, inside the enclosed play area, despite clear “No Dogs” signage at the entrance.
At Bower Ponds, newly replaced flat swing seats have already been damaged by dog bite marks and will need to be replaced again, creating further unnecessary expense. This is especially disappointing for the children and families who use the equipment responsibly. The swinging rope has also been removed after sustaining damage believed to have been caused by dogs and bite marks have been found on the rope attached to the trim trail.
Further reports from members of the public indicate that adults are deliberately taking dogs into other fenced and gated play areas at Marsa Way and Chamberlin Avenue. Dog faeces are frequently being found within these areas and are not being picked up or disposed of appropriately. At Coronation Park, bite marks have also been identified on the swing seats, despite the presence of a dedicated bark park at the same location.
All of these incidents have been reported to the police, and the affected play areas will continue to be monitored closely.
Although “No Dogs” signage is already in place, the Council will be reviewing all signage across its parks and play areas. Additional signs may be installed at entrance gates to reinforce that dogs are not permitted, and clear notices will also advise that the toddler play area at Victoria Park is monitored by CCTV.
Councillor Tim Mander, Chair of the Amenities Committee, said:
“Our play areas are designed to be safe, welcoming spaces for children and families and it is extremely disappointing to see them being misused in ways that put young people at risk.
“We fully appreciate how much these facilities are valued by the community and we are committed to protecting them. We are asking all residents to respect the rules in place and to support us in keeping these spaces clean, safe and enjoyable for everyone.”
Residents who have information or wish to report an issue at any of the Council’s parks or play areas are encouraged to visit www.bridgwater-tc.gov.uk and complete the Parks and Open Spaces reporting form located on the home page, or telephone 01276 427692.
Bridgwater Town Council would like to thank residents for their continued support in helping to keep our play areas safe, clean, and enjoyable spaces for children and families.
