Forres outdoor gym has been hit by vandalism and theft

An outdoor gym opened for free community use just 17 months ago is slowly being dismantled by vandals.

The £72,000 facility between Forres Academy and the Sanquhar housing estate, developed by Forres Community Sports Hub (FCSH) and Forres Community Council (FCC), has suffered at least three attacks since last summer, resulting in thousands of pounds-worth of damage that the caretaker groups cannot afford.

FCSH chairwoman, Ann Rossiter, confirmed that a magnetic dumbbell and pole were stolen, then a notice board was damaged, and, most recently, two hanging pommels (swinging handles) were also removed.

She said: “It is disheartening when something that had been welcomed and chosen by the community through consultation is destroyed.

“Forres has an abundance of residents who selflessly give their time to help enhance local facilities, provide opportunities and services through grant applications and fund-raising events - all of which takes time and effort.

“Acts like vandalism and theft spoil the positives and stop people from doing more for our community.”

The gym across from the car park at Sanquhar pond features multi-stations offering a full body workout, plus seats and shelters. Exercise boards show options and a free downloadable app acts like a virtual personal trainer, helping users to progress and get fitter.

The equipment is inspected and maintained by Moray Council. Anne started fundraiser (https://www.gofundme.com/f/forres-community-outdoor-gym) in November 2023 to help with the upkeep and for potential expansion.

She said: “Last July, one of two magnetic dumbbells and the pole it was on was removed by unbolting from the top bar – well over six feet high. A gym user found the pole in the burn. The station is now operating with one dumbbell and no choice of weight.

“On March 5, we heard that the notice board had been damaged. It had contact details for reporting issues, our Go Fund me page details and information for the gym’s safe usage.

“Last week it was highlighted that two of the pommels from the trim trail have been removed. Younger children who use the trim trail now have a section without arm support.”

She added: “We were quoted £3,271.37 for the replacement of the magnetic dumbbell alone, costs may have risen since then. To replace the other items would be around £500 but installation costs would be on top of this.”

Moray Council provided quotes for replacements and remedial work.

A spokesperson said: “Our understanding is the community organisation has been fundraising for repairs but as yet we haven’t been informed if the funding has been secured.

“The council carries out maintenance checks, however, the agreement is that large scale repairs are the responsibility of the Forres Community Council.”

Anne reports that users of all ages make use of the facilities at various times of the day.

“Families are engaging,” she said, “and school pupils use it for physical activity as well as a social space.”

A number of factors were considered when deciding on the gym’s location, however, it has been suggested that it offers cover for would-be vandals.

Anne explained: “It was an area of land that was not going to be used for development. It can also be used as an outdoor classroom during the school day.

“When passing, you can see it clearly from the road and, with the car park at the school and Sanquhar pond, there are usually people around as well as nearby residents.”

FCC chairman Steve Ferris explained that the group and FCSH cannot currently afford to insure the equipment but Moray Council has taken out third party liability insurance in case of injury to users.

He said: “Outdoor gym and play equipment around the country is rarely insured as it’s built to last.

“However, it’s sad that some people think it’s OK to vandalise and steal our property to the detriment of the the health and wellbeing of the people of Forres.”

Moray Council leader, Councillor Kathleen Robertson (Forres, Conservative), was instrumental in opening the gym for the community.

She said: “I am disappointed that the hard work of volunteers to secure an outdoor gym is being thwarted by individuals determined to destroy a community asset aimed at giving everyone free access to exercise.

“The ‘Spirit of Community’ report and previous iterations called for an outdoor gym for over 10 years; the gym should be a source of community pride.”

The Gazette asked Police Scotland for an update but has not had a reply.