Sunderland Community in Uproar After South Hylton Park Set Ablaze Multiple Times

Residents in South Hylton are calling for urgent action after their local ‘Pocket Park’ has been deliberately set on fire at least 10 times in just four weeks. The fires, believed to be started by local youths, have destroyed wildlife habitats, burned down playground equipment and left families fearful for their safety.

🏡 Local resident Keith Wilson said: “My fence could easily catch fire – my shed too. My house already stinks of smoke.”

🦔 Nature lovers are heartbroken, as frog spawn, birds, hedgehogs and butterflies that once filled the park have vanished. “Three quarters of the nature reserve has been destroyed,” added Friends of South Hylton spokesperson Leanne Gallagher.

🚒 Firefighters have responded repeatedly and are urging the public to report suspicious behaviour. Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service warns these attacks endanger lives, strain emergency resources and devastate green spaces.

📢 Residents fear the next fire could reach their homes – or even the nearby Metro substation.

The RSPCA has also spoken out, highlighting the grave danger to young and nesting wildlife unable to escape the flames.

Despite the destruction, the community is fighting to protect the park rather than see it closed. Gallagher said: “Parents must do more. Their kids must be coming home smelling of smoke.”

👉 Anyone with information is urged to contact FireStoppers anonymously.