**Debate Erupts Over Children’s Woodland Den After Police Label Activity ‘Vandalism’**
A recent Facebook post by North Wales Police has triggered a heated public discussion after authorities discovered a makeshift children’s den in a protected woodland area in Buckley, Flintshire. The woodland, formally recognised as a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI), became the focal point of contrasting opinions – with officers condemning the children’s handiwork as ‘vandalism’, whilst many local residents saw it as healthy, imaginative outdoor play.
Images released by the police showed a modest encampment: a tent cobbled together from various materials, a fire pit, some improvised seating, and even a basketball hoop. Officers explained that their visit was prompted by complaints from members of the public who were concerned about potential damage to the woodland, which is intended to preserve rare wildlife and ecological habitats.
In their social media post, the police queried, “Do you know where your children are when they go out to play?” and reported that they had coordinated with Flintshire County Council and site management staff to arrange for the area to be cleared. Patrols, they said, would be increased to deter further “damage”.
However, the response from the community was far from unanimous. Countless residents chimed in online, many expressing support for the children and vocalising concerns over what they saw as an overreaction. Some, including individuals with experience in outdoor education, argued that the children’s activity was both creative and harmless, likening it to fundamental learning experiences that are crucial for development.
One resident commented, “Calling this vandalism is a bit much. I’ve seen children’s play in forest schools and the skills they develop are incredible. Why not encourage them before they’re old enough to get bored and actually cause trouble?” Similar sentiments echoed across social media platforms, with many saying that the children involved were clearly displaying initiative, teamwork and imagination.
Concerns were also raised about the diminishing number of accessible outdoor spaces available to young people in Flintshire and across Wales. As the number of green spaces given protected status rises, some locals feel their children’s opportunities for outdoor adventure are being squeezed. “It feels like almost every green patch is now out of bounds. On one hand, we tell teenagers to get out and be active, but on the other, we warn them away from places like the Lower Common,” one parent remarked.
Underlying many comments was a sense of confusion and frustration regarding the changing use of public land. Comparisons were drawn between restrictions on children and apparent flexibility offered to property developers, fuelling perceptions of mixed priorities. “There’s a clear need to protect vulnerable wildlife, but we’re shutting children out while big projects are allowed in. What message does that send?” another local questioned.
The South Flintshire Community Policing Team responded to the outcry, clarifying their stance. “We encourage children to be outdoors and active, but this area is protected because of its scientific importance. We’ve had complaints about damage caused during den-building, so we must act. Our intention is simply to remind parents about the site’s special status.”
Calls have now emerged for clearer signage and more designated spaces for young people, where play and outdoor learning are actively supported rather than discouraged. Several residents reminisced about their own childhoods spent building dens and exploring local commons, highlighting the benefits to mental health and personal growth.
While the need to safeguard sensitive environments remains widely acknowledged, the episode has reignited debate over the best way to balance conservation goals with the needs of local young people. Many hope it will prompt further community dialogue, enabling solutions that nurture both nature and the next generation’s spirit of adventure.