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Councillor Abused While Battling Arson at Reserve
11 Aug
Summary
- Deliberate fires and fly-tipping incidents are increasing.
- A councillor was verbally abused by youths starting fires.
- Emergency services were called to two large fires recently.
Deliberate fires and widespread fly-tipping are creating a negative impression at Havannah Nature Reserve. Rachel Locke, chair of Hazlerigg Parish Council, recounted an incident where she was verbally abused by children she discovered starting a fire under a tree.
She also reported calling emergency services for two significant fires in recent weeks, one so large that ash fell on nearby streets. These fires result in substantial costs to taxpayers and inflict damage on the reserve's wildlife.
Newcastle City Council acknowledges the rise in fires and is collaborating with the fire service to implement preventative measures. Locke expressed her dismay, stating that the ongoing vandalism suggests a lack of care for the area, leading to its deterioration.
