OPENING of a new �800,000 showcase play park in Wisbech will be delayed further because of the most recent spate of vandalism.

Two barges lifted by crane onto the Waterlees Road site last Thursday were attacked overnight and damage is still being assessed by Cambridgeshire County Council.

The massive vessels will eventually be used as classrooms and they will also provide kitchen, changing and toilet facilities.

The county council has confirmed that opening of the play park, already running behind schedule, will be delayed further because of the vandalism to windows and metal framework of the barges.

A spokesman said: “This latest vandalism is extremely disappointing, and a further setback to our efforts to provide exciting new facilities for the Waterlees area. The barges, which arrived last week, were intended to provide clean, secure facilities when the playground opens, but unfortunately this will now be delayed as well.

“We still hope that in time the playground will prove to be an asset for the local community.”

The adventure play area has been plagued by vandalism and anti-social behaviour among both youngsters and adults. Safety concerns were also highlighted when a teenager broke his collar bone after falling from a piece of play equipment.