A much-needed play area has been vandalised just hours after opening.
Families have flocked to the new Swinton Greenway park, which opened last week and features climbing frames, slides, play castles and more.
On the edge of Swinton Greenway, a recently upgraded 7km off-road path that runs from Monton to Swinton and one of the city’s key cycling and walking routes, it's easy to get to without having to rely on a car.
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But the space has already been vandalised - with residents saying a swing was taken and play frames graffitied.
Mum Rebecca Mason says the play area is a welcome addition to the area and it's a shame that it's already been targeted.
"It's a great park," she said. "But it's so sad to see the babies climbing frame already vandalised and a missing swing since it opened on Thursday evening.
"It was definitely needed. It's a great addition for the new Greenway path and to have a park so close to the surrounding residents. I believe there was a park there years ago which was destroyed."
Another mum said she too has spotted the graffiti, adding: "I've noticed the kids have been drawing on it already. It's a shame because it’s a lovely park. Lots of children have been enjoying it."
The play area, which also features roundabouts, an aerial runway, an activity trail and a tyre swing, has been funded by Bellway Homes as part of a planning agreement with Salford council, which sees developers giving something back to the community.
With an emphasis on accessibility, the new footpaths and safety surfaces are fully accessible for wheelchair users, prams and buggies.
The M.E.N has been told that the swing has now been replaced. We have approached Salford council for a comment.
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