Vandals targeted electric vehicle (EV) charging points at Sutton Park in Sutton Coldfield, Birmingham, causing significant damage and leaving debris scattered across the popular park.
The incident occurred early on Sunday, 13 September, at the Boldmere Gate car park, where the charging points were stripped of their tether cables. These cables, which connect the charge points to vehicles, were removed, rendering the stations unusable.
The £750,000 car park was installed four years ago to support the Commonwealth Games triathlon events held in 2022. Parts taken from the charging points were found strewn near a bench approximately 300 metres from the car park.
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ESB Energy, the operator of the charging stations, acted promptly to clear the debris. A spokesperson for ESB Energy expressed disappointment at the vandalism, stating: “We are deeply disappointed our chargers have been targeted and are particularly frustrated these actions rendered the chargers unavailable to our customers, affecting their ability to charge their vehicles when needed.”
The company’s technicians have inspected the site to ensure safety, and arrangements are underway to replace the stolen cables. While repairs are being completed, the fast chargers at the Boldmere Gate location remain available, and alternative ESB Energy charging points are accessible nearby in Sutton.
ESB Energy urged the public to stay vigilant and report any suspicious activity at EV charging sites.
Sutton Park rangers thanked a dog walker who alerted staff to the damage. They confirmed that both the company and the police have been informed, adding that the mess will be cleared once the investigation concludes.
West Midlands Police received the report regarding the cable theft on 13 September. They are liaising with the business that owns the equipment and have asked anyone with information to contact them via phone or live chat, quoting crime reference 20/398090/26.