Four teenagers arrested in Penrith Castle Park arson investigation

Police have arrested four teenagers as the investigation continues into the arson attack in Castle Park, Penrith which destroyed the bowling pavilion.
It happened just after 7.40pm on Sunday and is estimated to have caused thousands of pounds worth of damage.

Police have made four arrests. Two males, aged 14 and 15 from Penrith, were arrested on suspicion of arson but have since been released without any further action. A 13 year old male and a 13 year old female from Penrith have also been arrested on suspicion of arson and are currently on police bail until 30 April while enquiries continue.

Police are still appealing for witnesses and are urging anyone with information to contact them on telephone number 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

Meanwhile Eden Council is working hard to reopen Castle Park. Council officers were given the go-ahead by their insurer on Wednesday lunch time to clear the site of the former bower’ following a visit by the loss adjuster the previous afternoon.

A Council spokesperson confirmed that the site of the fire and surrounding area is strewn with nails and shards of metal, all of which need removing to make the site safe. The Council is also in contact with utility companies and its contractor to reconnect water and electricity and make repairs to the toilets. The spokesperson confirmed that the Council was moving as quickly as possible to reopen the park to the public.

Eden Council is also keen to ensure that the bowling club can get access to the partially scorched green to repair the damage and prepare it for the start of the new season. Castle Park Bowling Club will shortly take delivery of new grass cutting equipment, paid for from a £7,000 Community Fund grant awarded by Eden Council.
Meetings have been arranged with representatives from both the bowling club and the cafe to discuss the provision of temporary accommodation.