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Hazardous Fencing at Durnsford Recreation Ground

Reported via desktop in the Play and Sports areas category anonymously at 17:21, Friday 20 March 2026

Sent to Merton Council less than a minute later. FixMyStreet ref: 9156502.

The section of the park that has been fenced off with temporary metal fencing, due to the notice stating that the equipment will be removed as it can no longer be maintained, has become increasingly dangerous. Despite the fencing, children regularly climb over and access the restricted area, particularly before and after school.

Today, my child was injured while playing near this fencing. Her clothing became caught on the exposed metal, which pierced through two layers of fabric and scratched her back. While thankfully not more serious, this incident highlights a clear and immediate risk to children using the park.

The current situation is not only ineffective in preventing access but is actively creating a hazard. Given the park’s close proximity to WPPS, this is especially concerning.

I strongly urge the council to take immediate action, either by removing the hazardous fencing or expediting the removal of the unsafe play equipment entirely.

It is also frustrating to receive recent communications asking residents how to allocate £3 million in funding, while a known and visible safety issue such as this remains unresolved. Ensuring children’s safety in public spaces should be a fundamental priority.

Updates

  • Thank you for reporting a problem in a park or recreation ground.

    We aim to deal with reports of park maintenance problems within 48 hours, and litter with within 24 hours. Some may take longer if we need specialist equipment or parts.

    Did you know…?
    We maintain over 115 parks and green spaces, and 46 play areas across Merton.

    Posted by Merton Council at 17:21, Friday 20 March 2026

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