A scheme designed to cut anti-social behaviour associated with a Teesside green space has suffered a setback after thieves stole fencing panels with equipment also being damaged.

Kingsley Field in Grangetown has been plagued by illegal off-road vehicles driving on it, forcing youngsters to flee, along with incidents of fly-tipping.

In an effort to protect the area and the neighbouring Greystone woodland, and make it safer for residents to use, £59,151 from Redcar and Cleveland Council, along with £40,000 from community group ‘You’ve Got This’ was committed in funding to pay for measures including fencing to surround the field.

But within hours of being installed eight fence panels and a ‘K’ barrier were cut down and stolen over two consecutive nights.

A large CCTV column was also targeted with the access panel being sawn open and an internal control board set fire to.

The scheme has now had to be suspended while potential options are considered, which could include arranging overnight security while the fencing is erected.

Grangetown ward councillor Adam Brook said: “Unfortunately, we’ve had to put all works to the fence on hold due to the theft and damage of some of the fence panels to be first installed. 

“The main purpose of the fence was to ensure the field and woodland area is a safe space for our families, children and young people to use. 

“We’ve worked hard to secure this large investment for our community and we are determined to continue on with the installation of the fence, despite this setback. 

“We want to reassure all our residents that we are still very much committed to this project and the safety of our community is paramount.”

Cllr Brook told the Local Democracy Reporting Service that there was sufficient money in the budget allocated towards the project to replace what had been stolen and to cover the additional time that would be required to complete it.

He said: “We are looking at on-site security to deter any further issues and allow us time to complete the installation of the fence, whilst we continue to look and discuss all options available to us to ensure the project is a success.”

Cllr Brook added: “Many residents are frustrated with the number of off-road vehicles, both motorbikes and quads driving dangerously at children playing on the field. 

“Parents we have spoken to won’t even allow their children onto the field because they are so scared and intimidated by the reckless driving of those on these vehicles.

“We would ask that any residents who see any illegal activity taking place to report it to the police immediately.”

Fellow Grangetown ward councillor Lynn Pallister said: “We are working with You’ve Got This and the Wildlife Trust to develop the woodland and bring it back into a usable area and be a great asset for our residents and future generations.

“The fencing is imperative, not just to ensure the safety of the community, but to also allow us to draw down more funding to carry out events and activities on the space for all to enjoy.” 

It is hoped that eventually the likes of summer fairs, mini music festivals, fireworks displays and seasonal markets could take place in the area.

A previously published council delegated decision report described how local football teams had played on the field, but were forced to move elsewhere as the area was unsafe due to riding of quad bikes and motorbikes.