Council Condemns Vandalism at Rhyl Community Sites

Denbighshire County Council has strongly condemned recent acts of vandalism at two public locations in Rhyl, describing the incidents as “deeply disappointing” and a setback for community facilities.

Damage was discovered at the Drift Park, where well-being gym equipment installed for public use has been vandalised. The outdoor gym sits alongside the park’s modern play area, which opened last September as part of a wider regeneration and sea defence project.

The Drift Park development was designed with accessibility and inclusivity at its core. It features more than 55 pieces of play equipment, including a wheelchair-accessible roundabout, nautical-themed play panels, an ocean-themed seesaw, and a large pirate ship-style slide with accessible stairs. The site is capable of accommodating up to 170 users at a time and was intended to provide a safe and engaging space for families and visitors.

However, following multiple reports, council officers found sections of the adult gym equipment had been damaged and removed. Efforts are now underway to repair and replace the affected equipment in time for the Easter holidays.

A separate incident of vandalism has also been reported behind the Sun Verge pub, where an access barrier—only recently installed—has been damaged and now requires replacement.

Councillor Barry Mellor, Lead Member for Environment and Transport, criticised those responsible. He said the damage to facilities designed to benefit the health and wellbeing of the community was “unacceptable” and placed an unnecessary financial strain on the council.

“These acts not only spoil valued community assets but also divert funding away from other local improvements,” he said.

Residents are being urged to report any information relating to the incidents to North Wales Police. The council has stressed that protecting public facilities is a shared responsibility and that vandalism will not be tolerated.