Car park closure due to 'persistent vandalism'

A recent safety inspection confirmed significant damage to the electrical and lighting system
- Published
Persistent vandalism has led to the overnight closure of a car park in Surrey, a council has announced.
A recent safety inspection confirmed significant damage to the electrical and lighting system at the car park at the rear of Woking Leisure Centre.
Woking Borough Council said it had "no choice" but to switch off all lighting until repairs can be completed.
Deputy leader Dale Roberts said: "The mindless actions of a few have had a real impact on the whole community, especially during the darker evening at this time of year."
The authority said the car park would close at 16:30 GMT daily. Daytime access will be unaffected.
'Taxpayers' money'
Roberts, the council's portfolio holder for parking services, said the vandalism was "extremely frustrating".
He added: "Repairing the damage is likely to take time and cost thousands of pounds of taxpayers' money that could have been better spent.
"Council officers are also exploring longer-term measures to minimise this happening again in the future."
Based on current plans, the work is scheduled for completion in the second half of 2026, the council said.
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