Over the weekend vandals have severely damaged an critical flood barrier in Kennington. The inflatable boom, which cost over £10,000, was slashed on Saturday night. Local Councillor Gareth Jennings commented, "This is a terrible act of vandalism which could put residents at even greater risk of flooding."Conservative Parliamentary Spokesman, Nicola Blackwood joined in the condemnation: "Those who have committed this crime have not only caused and essential defence to be put out of action but also destroyed the work of all those who have worked so hard to install and maintain the barrier to protect the people of Kennington."Cllr Jennings later added, "I have had discussions with Council officers, and it is hoped that the barrier can be repaired, rather than needing to be replaced at great expense. Anyone who has information about the attack should contact the police so that these faceless criminals can be caught."