A play area which was only officially opened a month ago continues to be targeted by litterbugs and vandals.

Used condoms, glass and general waste have been found dumped at the park in Premier Way, Kemsley.

Graffiti has also been scrawled on a bench at the site which was opened on May 13 by former mayor, Cllr Sue Gent.

Cllr Mike Whiting, Conservative member for Kemsley ward, who played a leading role in the park’s development called the damage “unacceptable”.

He said: “It’s a shame. Parks will often have teething problems and it may settle down once the novelty wears off.

“Older children are hanging around the play area and this is a cause of concern to some residents.”

The £50,000 park includes equipment for children of all ages and rides designed specifically for youngsters with wheelchairs.

Its creation was delayed for nearly a decade due to subsidence problems.

It was part-funded by money paid by housing developers as part of an agreement with Swale council and grants provided by local county councillors.

Resident Lisa Muggridge has started a Facebook appeal for people to blow the whistle on any issues with “bullying, anti-social behaviour, fighting and swearing” at the play area.

She added: “Please call 101, the more reports that are put in, hopefully the more PCSO presence we can get.

“All other issues, keep ringing the council.

“I’m sure they will get just as fed up with us as we are with everything going on.”
Cllr Whiting said: “The local PCSO and community warden are regularly keeping an eye on the play area.

“They are keen to play their part in reporting any anti-social behaviour.

“It’s unacceptable that a facility which families have been waiting for so long to enjoy is being mistreated by a small minority in this way.”