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Date: 25th March 2008

CHRISTCHURCH CITY COUNCIL MEDIA RELEASE

A major clean up is in under way in the Botanic Gardens today after vandals caused damage in two areas of the gardens over the Easter weekend.

Last night two newly planted areas were torn out, with plants and rocks dumped along the pathways. Garden furniture and fences in the area were also badly damaged.

Early on Sunday morning a shed near the Poison Garden was burnt down, causing damage to the tree above it.

Jeremy Hawker, the Christchurch City Council’s Botanical Services Operations Team Manager, says the vandalism in the gardens appears to be escalating.

In another recent incident a large amount of broken glass was scattered in the paddling pool and underneath the play equipment in the Children’s Playground.

Mr Hawker says the gardens are locked at night, and there are security patrols of the area, but they are now looking at options to increase security.

He says the damage is particularly disappointing for garden staff who put a lot of care and effort into maintaining the gardens.

The incidents have been reported to the police.

ENDS

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