Browse Sections

• Education
• Roadworks
• Shipman
• Special reports

Vandals cost as much as a new school

31/ 7/2001

MONEY spent on cleaning up vandalism in schools has cost the borough a completely new primary school.

Graffiti, fixing windows and arson attacks by vandals has cost nearly £1.5m in five years, with just under £250,000 worth caused in 12 months.

Education chief, Cllr Joe Kitchen said: "This is not about protecting buildings from mindless vandalism, important as that is.

"This is very much about us all working together to make sure Tameside children get the very best out of their education."

He explained that while fences, extra lighting, more locks and cameras have been installed to help combat the vandals, these can be unsightly for the school and the area.

Head teacher at Hyde's Dowson Primary, Janet Rathburn, explained how not only does the vandalism disrupt the school, but some of the younger children are quite scared when they come in to see a damaged classroom and windows boarded up.

"It does have an effect when they come in and their classrooms have been destroyed, especially the infants. They get quite upset about it," she said.

Now council bosses and the police are appealing for local residents to offer their support and keep a watchful eye over the schools.

Anyone who sees anything suspicious or any criminal damage taking place should phone the police on 0161 872 5050.