A new youth shelter being built in Hutton recreation area has been knocked down by vandals even before it is completed.
The attack is the latest problem to emerge in Brentwood's open spaces which are being plagued by anti-social behaviour by youngsters.
Councillors have been shocked by the damage to the structure's seating area and several building blocks.
They have now warned the project could be scrapped if the damage continues and appealed to young people to look after the new facility which was designed and created with their help.
Cllr Peggy Freeman said: "If the youth shelter is damaged any more the council is likely to take it away entirely. I do hope that local young people who appreciate the new facility will use it properly and deter others from vandalising it."
Cllr Freeman and fellow councillor Alan Davies, from Hutton East, are now planning regular checks on the site and are talking to local residents about the issue.
On Tuesday Brentwood police announced plans to develop a Youth Directory listing the town's various sports, performing arts and youth groups to tell young people what activities there are locally in a bid to lure them off the streets.
The damage to the youth shelter was reported at Brentwood Council's Cultural Panel which also looked at measures to reduce youth nuisance issues at Courage Playing Fields off Chelmsford Road.
Published Wednesday, June 18, 2003
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