WINCHESTER, N.H. (MyKeeneNow) The main playground at Winchester School will remain off-limits for the foreseeable future after staff discovered additional damage to the surface and equipment that forced the facility to stay closed beyond its original reopening date.

The closure, which began last week, was initially expected to last only a few days. But as repairs got underway, further issues were uncovered, delaying the reopening and prompting the school to extend the closure indefinitely.

The playground, renovated just last year with new surfacing, play structures, and safety mats, has seen a surge in misuse and vandalism in recent months, according to school staff. Reports have included damage to the surfacing, apparent attempts to remove safety mats, and even vehicles being driven across the play area.

In response, both the school resource officer and the Winchester Police Department have launched investigations to determine how the damage occurred and whether it was intentional. Police say video from the school’s surveillance system is being reviewed as part of the inquiry. The two investigations are expected to be combined to streamline efforts.

Warnings have been issued to the public outlining prohibited activities, such as parking on or near the playground, tampering with the equipment, or using sharp objects that could puncture the surface. School officials are urging anyone who sees further damage to report it immediately.