We reported to you last week that there had been a fire at Saughton Park which has caused damage to the train in the newly opened play park.

Police  are now  appealing for witnesses following a fire-raising incident within a children’s play park.

Between 25 and 28 November 2018 the newly installed wooden train unit at Saughton Park was set alight.

Approximately £4,000 worth of damage has been caused and inquiries have been underway to identify those responsible since officers were alerted on Tuesday 4 December.

Anyone with information is asked to come forward.

Inspector Scott Richardson from Wester Hailes Police Station said: “This play park recently underwent significant renovation and the wooden train unit, which is a key feature of the new installations, is worth over £16,000.

“The damage caused will result in the park being out of use to the local community while repairs are made and we are keen to identify those responsible for this needless act of destruction.

“If you believe you can assist with our ongoing investigation then please contact police immediately.”

Transport and Environment Vice Convener, Councillor Karen Doran, said: “This kind of a behaviour is completely unacceptable and it’s a real shame that someone has chosen to do such damage to this fantastic play park, which was made possible thanks to the hard work of volunteers, along with the Saughton Park Project.

“This scheme aims to provide a welcoming and enjoyable space for the community but as a result of vandalism children will be deprived of newly-installed, accessible play equipment. I would encourage anyone with any information on this incident to contact the Police.”

Those with information can contact Wester Hailes Police Station via 101 and quote incident number 1862 of the 4th December. Alternatively, an anonymous report can be made to the charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

The council told The Edinburgh Reporter that the train can possibly be repaired rather than replaced.

 

The train at Saughton Park has been vandalised. Photo courtesy of Friends of Saughton Park
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Founding Editor of The Edinburgh Reporter.
Edinburgh-born multimedia journalist and iPhoneographer.