Residents concerned about the closure of a Brentwood skate park have started a campaign to urge the council to re-open and improve the site as quickly as possible.

King George’s skate park, in King George’s Playing Field, Ingrave Road, has been closed since last week while the council investigates acts of vandalism which have left it unsafe.

A petition and Facebook group have been set up by residents, including members of the Brentwood Youth Council, who want young people to be able to use the park again.

Ben Jolly, who works in B&M Cyles on Brentwood High Street, is one of the petition organisers.

He said: “My 10-year-old son goes there to skate, so he’s not out in the streets and the roads. There’s a nice sense of community which I noticed as soon as he first started going up there last year.”

And Mr Jolly, who said he knows most of the park’s users by name, doesn’t believe regular users could have been responsible for the damage.

Facebook group member George Tuck said: “Take away Brentwood skate park and there will be nothing for the young to do so more youngsters hanging about on the streets.”

Residents are also coming up with fundraising ideas to help re-open the park.

The council says it is currently waiting to receive quotes for the work that needs to be done.

Cllr Mark Reed, chairman of the business, community and culture panel, said: “This is a community park not just a council park and we need community involvement.

“We want people to come forward with their ideas. Those who use the park must help us to plan the best design possible – so I am keen for the young people to let us know what they need.”

He added: “The council can fund some of this, but not all and I am delighted that so many people are interested in working with us to find additional grants.”

Anyone with ideas for the skate park can call Cllr Reed on 07879 465 009.

The petition is available in B&M Cycles, and an online version will be available soon.

Anyone who witnesses any crime in the park is asked to contact the police.