Newark Town Council and Newark and Sherwood District Council express disappointment at Sherwood Avenue Park vandalism

Councillors have hit out at the “horrific acts of vandalism” which has seen much damage caused to one of the town’s newly renovated parks, as well as horse manure being left.

Less than a month after Sherwood Avenue Park was officially re-opened after its £500,000 upgrade project, the community space was targeted by vandals and anti-social behaviour over the weekend.

The park has been defaced with offensive graffiti, equipment ripped out of the ground, and the hand pump for the water play feature was ripped out, causing flooding of the area and will now be out of action until it can be repaired.

Horse manure was also left in the park.

Barbara Corrigan, Mayor of Newark Town Council, said that she was “deeply saddened and disappointed” to hear of the damage and vandalism, and that while the total costs needed for repairs has yet to be totalled, she said it was expected to be “significant”

“We are deeply saddened and disappointed by horrific acts of vandalism at Sherwood Avenue Park over the weekend,” she said.

“Such behaviour is not only unacceptable—it undermines the hard work of our council teams, volunteers, and residents who take pride in our town.

“Our parks are vital spaces for families, children, and residents of all ages. They are places of joy, wellbeing, and connection. We will not allow the actions of a few to diminish the value they bring to our community.”

She added that the Town Council is working with Newark and Sherwood District Council and the police to investigate the incident and that anyone with information is being urged to come forward.

“Let’s stand together to protect our parks and the spirit of our town.”

Paul Peacock, Leader of Newark and Sherwood District Council, added: ““We share the community’s frustration and concern following the recent vandalism at Sherwood Avenue Park. Acts of anti-social behaviour like this are not only disheartening—they are a direct attack on the spaces that bring our communities together.

“Our Community Protection team and the Police will be actively investigating the incident. CCTV footage from the area is currently under review, and we are working closely with Newark Town Council and Nottinghamshire Police to identify those responsible.

“We are committed to tackling mindless vandalism and ensuring our parks remain safe, welcoming places for everyone.

“Together, we can protect our public spaces and send a clear message: anti-social behaviour will not be tolerated in Newark and Sherwood.”

If you witnessed anything or have information that could assist the investigation, please contact police on 101 or report it anonymously via Crimestoppers.