Police appeal for information as vandals damage historic site

Hannah Neary, local democracy reporter

Historic building remains have been targeted by vandals in a series of increasing criminal and anti-social behaviour issues at a beauty spot in Neath.

Police are investigating damage caused to the foundations of an 18th-century mansion; the latest incident in a series of “rising” problems at Gnoll Estate Country Park.

A spokesperson for Neath Port Talbot (NPT) Council said the foundations of Gnoll House, known as the “Old House”, were damaged on Friday May 21.

The damage to the Old House is one of multiple issues that have occurred at the park within the last few months. Separate incidents have been reported to police, including arson and the theft of mobility scooters between late March and late April.

‘Historical value’

In a statement made on social media, the park said: “We are seeing an increasing amount of antisocial behaviour over our old house site. This is a very historic and important feature of the park as it represents the foundations of the Mackworth Estate.

“We want to be able to preserve this area so it can retain its historical value for many generations to come.”

The Old House once housed the Mackworth family – a line of entrepreneurs who built mills and workhouses in the local area during the 17th century.

Today, only the foundations of the building are visible after it was demolished in 1957 by NPT Council, who owns the park.

A spokesperson for South Wales Police said NPT Council reported the damage to the Old House remains on Tuesday May 25.

They added: “The incident is being investigated however there are no suspects identified at this time.”

Police and the council are urging anyone with any information to contact police, quoting the reference number 2100181903 on the website, via a private message to police on Facebook/Twitter, by email or call 101.