Harrogate Borough Council have issued a statement regarding the fire that occurred in the early hours of Saturday Morning in Valley Gardens that resulted in the destruction of a large children’s play structure.
A spokesperson for the Harrogate Borough Council said:
Councillors and staff at Harrogate Borough Council have been saddened and sickened by the wanton destruction of the fort within the very popular children’s play area in the Valley Gardens. The play fort was totally destroyed by fire during the early hours of Saturday, 8 October.
The council is pleased that the police have made a number of arrests and are progressing well with their investigations. Council staff will do everything they can to assist the police.
The site has been released as a crime scene and the council now awaits a visit from its insurer’s loss adjuster. Once they get the go-ahead, the council will act quickly to make good the ground area.
It is too early to say what the council will do to replace the facility, no decision has been made.
In the meantime the council wishes to urge anyone with any information surrounding the incident to speak to the police. The council also wishes to thank everyone who has offered their support which has been overwhelming.
Police have made arrests in connection with this incident, and are continuing to appeal for witnesses or anyone with information that could assist the investigation are asked to contact North Yorkshire Police on 0845 60 60 24 7, quoting reference number 12110170679.
