Outrage as 4×4 vandalism wrecks Croydon playing fields

By Harrison Galliven, Local Democracy Reporter

Croydon residents have expressed anger at unknown boy racers who drove doughnuts around a Croydon playing field, causing damage to well-used football pitches.

Local councillors have called upon the police and Croydon’s mayor for more protection of their open spaces.

Last Sunday evening, residents of Waddon Way were alerted to a loud revving noise coming from the Purley Way playing fields opposite their houses. A number of residents reported seeing a large Mitsibushi 4×4 driving on the playing field at a high speed.

The vehicle, which was videoed but is so far unidentified, had mounted the grass from the earth mounds on Waddon Way and had made its way toward the numerous football pitches that fill the large open area. The vehicle proceeded to make doughnut turns across the grass, tearing it up in the process.

This incident was subsequently reported to the police. Members of the public also took to social media to decry what has been called ‘mindless vandalism.’

Some called the drivers ‘stupid and selfish’ and have called for swift action from the police. Others raised concerns over similar incidents occurring at other open spaces across the borough.

Others have turned their blame towards Croydon council for allowing such an incident to take place. In particular, they have called upon Mayor Jason Perry to increase security around the park, with some saying more fences and CCTV are needed ‘if people cannot be trusted.’

The recent incident comes following a spate of incidents at Purley Way playing fields, each of which has left it in a damaged state. Earlier this summer, members of the traveller community entered the playing fields unlawfully and parked their motor homes on the grass.

According to residents, they were able to access the playing fields via an old security gate on the perimeter of the site. When the travellers were eventually moved on, the area was left with damaging tyre marks and an abundance of litter.

The playing fields have also become a hotbed of illegal fly tipping and lower-level littering.

Local ward councillors Rowenna Davis and Elilly Ponnuthurai issued a statement saying: “We are shocked and saddened to learn of this mindless vandalism with no consideration for its impact on the environment and our residents.

“The Purley Way playing fields is one of Waddon’s beauty spots, it’s scenic and serene and extensively used by families and dog walkers. Football is played throughout the week, from children to adults.

“These fields have suffered from damage from travellers, fly-tips and fast-food litter. We have raised an urgent enquiry – asking for the council to attend and take remedial action and for the police to investigate to hold those responsible accountable.

“We call upon the Mayor to protect our precious green spaces and take better care of them.”

Croydon council have been approached for comment.

Pictured top: Purley Way Playing Fields off Waddon Way (Picture: Google Street View)