Police step up patrols at Lancaster park amid rising damage and arsons

Wednesday, 15 October 2025 10:21

By Greg Lambert @greglam72

A double zip wire has recently been installed at Greaves Park in Lancaster. Photo: Friends of Greaves Park

Youth anti-social behaviour is on the rise at a Lancaster park where thousands of pounds has been spent on play equipment for kids.

Detective Inspector Adie Knowles said officers were visiting Greaves Park every day after reports of criminal damage and bin arsons.

A zip line has recently been installed at the park, and two years ago a new play area opened after a £60,000 revamp.

"Young people are gathering there," said Det Insp Knowles, speaking on his regular 'Beyond the Beat' on Beyond Radio on Tuesday.

"There has been some recent investment in a zip line, the authorities have thrown some money at doing the park up.

"But unfortunately anti-social behaviour is on the rise.

"The team are visiting the park every day to try to knock it on the head.

"We want to stop it as it's there for people to use and enjoy.

"If anyone sees anyone damaging items or setting bin fires, call 999, let us know.

"The Neighbourhood Policing Team are doing their best to try to tackle them."

Det Insp Knowles (below) said there had been a report of another bin fire last weekend.

In September, we reported that police had seized an e-scooter after responding to a report of youth related anti-social behaviour in the park.

During the call out, a number of members of the public expressed concern about how the park was being used by a group of youths.

The double zip wire was installed by Lancaster City Council parks team, and opened in August after a project involving the Friends of Greaves Park and various funders.

The play area opened in 2023 after a project involving the Friends of Greaves Park, Lancaster City Council, Lancashire County Council and various other funding bodies.

PHOTOS: Lancaster play park "buzzing" as it reopens after £60,000 revamp - Beyond Radio

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