Mobile CCTV unit deployed at Pottsville Memorial Oval in response to vandalism

A MOBILE CCTV unit has been installed at Pottsville Memorial Oval after vandalism saw several fence pickets kicked out, many beyond repair.

Approximately 20 vertical pickets have been kicked out of various fence panels around Pottsville Memorial Oval, with most of the damage occurring on the western side of the sportsground near the tennis courts.

A further two to three pickets were also removed from fencing on the eastern side.

Council has confirmed about half of the damaged pickets cannot be reinstated due to the extent of the damage.

In response, council has deployed a mobile CCTV unit at the site.

 

“The damage at Pottsville Memorial Oval has affected facilities that are used and valued by the whole community, from local sporting clubs to families and visitors,” council’s director of sustainable communities and environment Naomi Searle said.

“In response, Council has deployed a mobile CCTV unit to help protect the area, support NSW Police and reduce the risk of further incidents while repairs are assessed.”

Searle said vandalism placed ongoing strain on public assets and diverted resources away from community services.

 

“Vandalism doesn’t just damage infrastructure, it disrupts community life and takes time and resources away from services that benefit everyone,” she said.

“We’re asking people to look out for these shared spaces and to report antisocial behaviour to Crime Stoppers and local police so we can keep places like Pottsville Oval safe, welcoming and available for the whole community.”

Frustration among locals has spilled into public view, with a handwritten note left at the site telling the offender to “move out of our beautiful little village ASAP”.