CCTV to target Abingdon toilet vandals

Individuals deliberately damaging public toilets in an Abingdon park now risk being caught on CCTV.

Following repeated and costly vandalism, Vale of White Horse District Council has installed the cameras overlooking the entrance to the toilets in Abbey Meadow.

The facility is well used throughout the year and is especially important during the summer months when thousands of young children flock to the area to use the popular splash park and play area.  There is also an accessible toilet providing a changing area for those with disabilities. 

Last year, vandalism resulted in the closure of the toilets at the Charter Car Park while other facilities in Abingdon were also targeted.  Each time the toilets are vandalised it costs significant public money to fix the damage and they have to be closed for an extended period, depriving the whole community of much-needed facilities often during the busiest periods.

The facilities at Abbey Meadow have been attacked on a number of occasions this year with the baby changing bench set on fire, toilet roll holders destroyed, handwash units broken, porthole windows smashed and door handles ripped off.

Cllr Debra Dewhurst, Cabinet Member for Leisure Centres and Community Buildings, said: “It is so sad to see the toilets repeatedly vandalised and having to be closed for repair. The individuals involved are depriving all those that use the parks of much needed toilet facilities.

“We hope that the CCTV will now act as a deterrent and help to catch those involved.  We report all incidents to the police and are working with them and community safety experts to identify further action which could help tackle the issue.”

If you see someone damaging public facilities, or know who is responsible, please contact the police on 101.