Play equipement wrecked in arson attack in Cleveleys' Anchorsholme Park will be rebuilt, vow councillors

The arsonists struck just after midnight on December 28 and caused significant damage to the pirate ship in the play area of Anchorsholme Park.

Firefighters tackled the blaze with a hose reel jet and remained at the scene until 2am, while police said an investigation had been launched into a suspected arson attack.

Anchorsholme ward councillors Anita Cooper and Paul Galley say they are fully focused on ensuring the playground is rebuilt and improved for the future, after meeting police and senior council officers from Blackpool Council.

It is expected that the damaged play ship will need to be demolished.

Work is now underway to confirm what it will be replaced with, how it will be funded, and when it can be delivered.

A series of meetings will take place throughout January involving councillors, council officers and key stakeholders to agree the next steps and timescales.

Both councillors are clear that the playground will be rebuilt, and that local residents will play a central role in shaping the outcome.

There is also a strong commitment to include improved lighting as part of the new playground design.

Cllr Anita Cooper said:“This has been a deeply upsetting incident for our community, but I want to be absolutely clear that the playground will be rebuilt.

“We are determined to create something positive from this and to work with residents every step of the way. Over the coming weeks, we will be holding meetings to confirm what the new playground will look like, how it will be delivered and how the community can be involved.

“Anchorsholme Park means a great deal to local families, and we will not let this incident define it.”

Cllr Paul Galley added:“We are determined to turn this awful incident into something really positive for the community. The response from residents has been incredible and has united people not just locally, but across the wider region.

“We have received many offers of help, from donations to fundraising, and that community spirit will be vital as we move forward.

“At the moment any Gofundme Pages, fundraising activity or rewards relating to the Anchorsholme Park attack are not endorsed by the Council but we will be in a position to officially launch something once we have agreed a plan.”

Cllr Galley also confirmed that he remains in close contact with senior police officers. The police investigation into the arson attack remains ongoing, with significant police resources dedicated to it.

He added:“I am extremely grateful to the police for their work, I can’t say more at this stage, as protecting the integrity of the investigation is vital, but robust evidence is being gathered and I expect to provide a further update in the coming days.”

Further updates on resident engagement, fundraising opportunities and the rebuilding process will be shared as plans are confirmed.

Meanwhile, a crowdfunding campaign has been launched by resident Nikki Mayler and anyone wishing to support it can find out more here