A COUNCIL will be installing CCTV on a tourist attraction in Promenade Park after it was vandalised for the second time.

The Saltmarsh Hub was built and officially opened in the park at the end of May, overlooking the River Blackwater, with information on Viking invasions and the Battle of Maldon as well as the development of Maldon as a market town with a coastal economy.

Less than a month after it was unveiled on May 25, it was vandalised by crooks, with various panels being kicked through.

Despite repairs being made, it has since been targeted by vandals once again, with the ground floor windows looking out over the river being smashed through.

Richard Holmes, director of service delivery at Maldon District Council, said CCTV will be installed and reinforcements will be made to the hub.

He said: “Vandalism and damage to public amenities is always very disappointing. We work closely with Essex Police to discourage such behaviour.

“Evidence, including CCTV footage from all such crimes is passed to the Police for enforcement. The damaged windows of the Saltmarsh Hub will be replaced and reinforced.

“While the public reaction and enjoyment of the new hub has been overwhelmingly positive, we will be installing upgraded cloud-based CCTV so that any further anti-social behaviour or damage can be recorded and perpetrators identified.

“I encourage anyone with any information about recent vandalism to report this to our Community Protection Team on 01621 852475 or 07771935330 or contact Essex Police on 101.”

Maldon resident David Hamilton, who came across the new damage, said: “I really hope the district council will step up the security at the now partially destroyed new Saltmarsh hub.

“I took photos of the damage whilst out walking and am appalled at the continuing damage being done to an excellent facility.

“It seems to attract the unsavoury element of Maldon youth. I hope the CCTV will act as a deterrent.”