Arson Attack Destroys Ponderosa Centre’s New Therapeutic Domes
Police in Batley and Spen are hunting a gang of up to four males caught on camera near the Ponderosa centre in Heckmondwike. They want to question them over a suspected arson attack that ripped through fibreglass domes at the facility.
Fire Hits Centre Helping Those in Need
The blaze broke out just after 5.14pm on Wednesday, October 21st, causing major damage to the new domes and equipment inside. The domes were part of a fresh project aimed at supporting people battling incurable illnesses, depression, and mental health struggles through creative activities and socialising.
Howard Cook MBE, who has been developing the project, said the land was dedicated to helping the community. “When I took the land over from Yorkshire Water, I committed to making it a community project,” he said. “We’ve been filling it up for 2 to 3 years, putting funds directly into rehabilitating the land and supporting these schemes.”
‘TALK’ Project Offers Hope and Support
The scheme, dubbed TALK, is designed as a friendly spot for people to chat, build, plant, or just enjoy a cuppa. “There are so many suffering physically and mentally who don’t know where to turn,” Cook added. “We wanted to create a place of respite. The domes, which were burnt down, would have been up and running this year. I’m still determined to make this happen.”
Police Appeal: Help Catch Arsonists
PC Lucy Ramsden of Batley and Spen NPT condemned the “senseless and dangerous” attack. “This arson has caused significant damage to a worthy project supporting people during dark times,” she said. “We are fully investigating and need the public’s help to identify those responsible.”
If you recognise the men in the images, contact Batley and Spen NPT on 101 quoting crime number 13200528227. You can also provide info online at www.westyorkshire.police.uk/101livechat or anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
