Weather delays repairs at Charlies Park play area in Jarrow after suspected arson attack

The much-loved Anglo-Saxon ship at Charlies Park, also known as Drewetts Park near Jarrow Hall, was partially destroyed in a fire in late January 2020, with vandals thought to be behind the incident.

A section of equipment had to be removed, and work began on Monday August 3 to replace the play unit and carry out some additional repairs to the site.

South Tyneside Council chiefs said in July that the work would be complete by mid-August.

The new equipment is now in place – but the unexpected rain and mini heat wave at the beginning of the week put a spanner in the works.

Work to complete the safety flooring surrounding the equipment has been slightly delayed, as conditions meant teams could not install it as planned.

As a result, the area is still fenced off and remains closed to the public until the work is completed.

Councillor Joan Atkinson, Lead Member for Area Management and Community Safety, said: “It is such a shame that the play ship at Charlies Park was severely damaged by mindless vandals earlier this year, but I am pleased to see that work to restore the park is underway and progressing well.

“We know that many children, parents and carers will be keen to see the new equipment and the re-opening of the park but at this time, we would urge people to respect the closure signage and fencing currently in place.

“We will be sure to let residents know when repairs to the park are completed and when the park is safe to use again.”

Firefighters were called to Charlies Park at 9.21pm on Friday, January 31, when they received reports the play park was on fire.

The incident sparked outrage from families who use the park, as well as others in the community and politicians.

As well as repairs at Charlies Park, there are also plans progressing for a new history-themed play area nearby in the grounds of Jarrow Hall.

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