POLICE and fire crews will update residents and councillors on their bid to reduce rising arson incidents in Lundwood after it was revealed that dozens of fires had been dealt with in the last year.
More than 60 fire-related incidents were reported on Littleworth Lane’s playing fields in Lundwood in 2017, while 18 were dealt with in January alone.
The problem led bosses to name Lundwood as the policing priority for the Royston-based neighbourhood policing team - which covers Lundwood - and updates along with latest statistics are due to be revealed at The Grove, Royston, on Tuesday at 10am.
The alarming figures - which residents say are diverting crews away from more serious incidents - prompted immediate action to be taken and a multi-agency approach between South Yorkshire Police and South Yorkshire Fire and Rescue has occurred since January.
Simon Brookes, from SYFR, will reveal statistics from the six-week operation next week.
He said: “It’s been a constant source of irritation for nearby residents throughout 2017 and the incidents we had in January shows not much has changed, hence why we needed to step in.”
Pallets from the nearby Iceland store, general waste, wheelie bins and sofas have all been set alight - and police and fire officers have been in contact with local schools.
A spokesman from SYFR said: “We treat all acts of arson extremely seriously and are working closely with South Yorkshire Police and other local agencies to identify those responsible and to prevent further instances occurring.
“Incidents such as these divert our resources when they could be needed at genuine life-threatening emergencies.
“These small fires also have the potential to spread to properties and could put lives at risk. If residents have any information about people starting fires in their area, they can call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.”
