New gate for park where Gavin Brown died (From Croydon Guardian)

New gate for park where Gavin Brown died

7:31am Saturday 17th February 2007 in News

The council is to install gates at the Shirley recreation ground where Gavin Brown was stabbed to death.

After years of problems with antisocial behaviour, which culminated in Gavin's death in October 2005, the council has decided to close off Parkfields Recreation Ground.

The town hall said it had been working closely with residents to tackle the problems over the past year but a range of measures taken to combat the problem has failed.

Problems include criminal damage, antisocial behaviour, graffiti, arson, fly-tipping and the riding of mini-motorbikes in and around the recreation ground.

The plan has been overwhelmingly welcomed by residents and users of the park who were consulted before the decision to install gates was taken.

The proposal will see gates erected at both ends of Oakview Grove alleyway, preventing all public access.

The fire service will hold a key for access in an emergency and public access to the grounds will be available through alternative entrances at Freshfields, Parkfields and Cheston Avenue.