A skatepark and play area are at risk of being shut down after vandals caused over £6,000 of damage.

Vandalism at the Millennium Park in Penrhyndeudraeth has cost the town council thousands of pounds in recent years and parents are keeping their children away due to litter and indecent graffiti.

Since 2012, vandalism at the park has cost over £6,000 to repair and councillors are very concerned for its future.

Among the options Penrhyndeudraeth Town Council is set to discuss is closing the skate park and play area for good.

In a statement before the public meeting, the town council said: “Users have advised that they are now keeping their children away from the children’s play area and skate park because of broken glass, litter and indecent graffiti.

“Some individuals ignore the ‘No Dogs’ notices and let their dogs run loose and foul on the playing field, posing a health risk to users.

“Trees, playing equipment, fences, tables, gates and benches are being vandalised, and used to start fires amongst the trees behind the skate park.”

Town council chairman Gwynfor Owen said: “It is only a small minority that are causing this problem, but we need to draw attention to the problems in the park.”

County councillor Gareth Thomas added: “This is costing the town council a lot of money, money which would be better spent elsewhere. It is a matter of respect. People need to take pride and look after the park or it will close. There has been talk of installing CCTV but I don’t think that would solve the issue as the youngsters could just put their hoods up.”

Police officers met with local councillors this week to discuss future plans.

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