“Improve our park now” say Mexborough residents

The outcry followed the news that further investment at Schofield Park, where a new swing was installed last autumn, had been put on hold.

Up to £50,000 is expected to be spent at some point on improving the park by replacing flooring and long-standing play equipment.

Petition founder Susan Howe, who has attracted more than 60 supporters, pointed out that last month’s Partners’ and Communities Together meeting had been told it was “full steam ahead” for further improvements but at last week’s follow-up meeting, “they have now backtracked and placed it all on hold and everything has stopped”.

She said the “excuse” given was concerns over possible vandalism but noted: “The swing was a tester seven months ago and is in perfect condition.”

Calling for more petition supporters, Ms Howe said: “Please sign and get the kids off the street and in a park where they belong.

“Kids are at a higher risk of joining gangs if they have nothing to do.”

Mexborough First councillor Sean Gibbons  confirmed the work was on hold over concerns about anti-social behaviour in the area, which has been the centre of police operations to tackle gang vilence for the past year.

He said: “A decision has been made to put a hold on current plans for a new play area on guidance from council officers in light of recent police investigations following the latest gang activities.”

Cllr Gibbons said councillors, council officers and police were working to improve the area and a play area remained a “key priority”.

Money had been “ring-fenced” for the park “once things improve in the local area”, he added.

Cllr Gibbons said police had confirmed new CCTV was currently being installed in the area, which will be able to monitor part of the park.

“We’re going to discuss it again at our next meeting in June and see where we are at that point,” he added.

A council spokesman said: “Together with the local councillors we are committed to supporting the local community and reinstating the children’s equipment at the park but while the anti-social behaviour in this area continues it doesn't make sense to invest in equipment which in all likelihood will be damaged.

“We are working closely with South Yorkshire Police to tackle the problems and once the situation improves, the investment in the new play area at Schofield Park will go ahead.”