Deliberate vandalism has caused significant damage to conservation fencing at a Dorset heathland site home to an extremely rare eco-system.
According to Dorset Council, extensive sections of fencing have been cut and have caused such severe damage that the entire fence line will now need to be rewired.
The incident reportedly took place at Stephens Castle in Verwood, between Thursday, October 15 and the morning of Friday, October 16.
Cllr Jack Jeanes, Dorset Council’s cabinet member for place services, said: "We are extremely disappointed that someone has deliberately damaged the fencing at Stephens Castle.
"The fencing is there to support a long-term conservation project that will help protect and improve this important heathland habitat while keeping the site open and accessible for residents.
"Deliberate damage like this puts public money at risk, jeopardises important conservation work and could create serious safety issues once livestock are on site."
The council confirmed new fencing was previously been installed to support the planned introduction of grazing animals, a traditional and natural way of managing heathland habitats
Dorset council said: "The damage is particularly concerning as grazing livestock are due to arrive shortly.
"Had animals already been on site, damaged fencing could have allowed them to escape onto nearby roads, creating serious risks for motorists, local residents and the animals themselves."
Dorset Council has also reported the incident to Dorset Police, who will be increasing patrols in the area and have appealed to the public for information from anyone who may have seen suspicious activity at the site.
