Visitors to Wolverhampton's parks and open spaces are being urged to respect the facilities to help ensure everyone enjoys them.

The current heat wave has resulted in a huge increase in the numbers of people going to green areas to soak up the sun and enjoy picnics and days out.

But, while residents and visitors to the city are encouraged to use the beauty spots, a number of recent incidents have seen damage caused to venues and concerns raised about how the facilities are being used.

These include an arson attack on the historic shelter at Hickman Park in Bilston and the theft of plants from the central flower beds from West Park last week - just days before Wolverhampton bids for gold in the Heart of England in Bloom contest.

Wolverhampton City Council has also received reports of people using disposable barbecues at Tettenhall Green, which is prohibited there, and litter being left strewn across the site.

Councillor John Reynolds, Wolverhampton City Council's Cabinet Member for City Services, said: "The fine weather we are currently enjoying has understandably resulted in far more people visiting our parks and spaces.

"We want people to have fun at our excellent parks and green spaces and it is great to see the vast majority of people enjoying themselves but unfortunately a small minority have caused these problems which are threatening to spoil things for everyone else.

"What we are keen to avoid is those who use the parks responsibly being put off because of the criminal damage and excess litter being left around.

"If people witness such incidents they should contact rangers or the police, while we would urge all park users to clear up after themselves and use the bins provided on site.

"Not only does this behaviour make the areas look unsightly and unwelcoming, it also costs taxpayers a huge amount of money to rectify any damage and clean up the sites.

"We would urge all visitors to respect their green spaces and ensure they remain pleasant and safe environments for all to enjoy."

  • released: Wednesday, 17 July, 2013