PARKING machines have been vandalised and cameras stolen at two reservoirs just over a month after charges were introduced by Yorkshire Water.

ANPR cameras and parking machines at both Swinsty and Fewston reservoirs have been targeted.

It comes after Yorkshire Water introduced parking charges at Swinsty, Fewston and Thruscross reservoirs, near Otley, in January saying funds raised would pay for improvements at the sites which it manages.

Funds will also pay for its first ever ranger team, who will carry out countryside management and biodiversity projects at the sites which are hugely popular with walkers.

Yorkshire Water hoped that ANPR cameras fitted in the car parks would also deter antisocial behaviour and fly tipping, making the areas safer and more enjoyable for all to visit.

However, just over a month after parking charges were introduced the equipment has been vandalised and cameras stolen.

The damage to the parking machines at Swinsty Reservoir was spotted by  Tom Featherstone who took this photo early on Saturday, March 2, 2024.

However, visitors to the reservoirs in the Washburn Valley are still required to pay for parking via an app or a phone line, until the machines are repaired.

A Yorkshire Water spokesperson said: "Unfortunately, ANPR cameras at Swinsty and Fewston have been stolen and the parking machines at the sites have been vandalised. We are working closely with the Police and will be sharing any relevant information required for their investigation.

"Payments will be taken via the phone line stated on the signage and the RingGo app while we work to repair the machines and install new cameras. Visitors have until midnight on the day of their visit to pay, so this can be done when they return home. We have put up signage at the sites to inform visitors."

A North Yorkshire Police spokesperson said: “The incidents of vandalism and theft at the reservoirs are disgraceful. We’re working with Yorkshire Water to help catch the culprits, including targeted patrols in the area.

“In the meantime, we ask people to remain vigilant and to report any suspicious activity via the police website or by calling us on 101.

“If a crime is taking place or you feel threatened, always dial 999 for an emergency response.”

Visitors to the popular sites are required to pay £1 for an hour, £3 for six hours, and £5 for all day parking.

There is free parking for holders of blue badges and also an annual £30 pass covering all three reservoirs.