Park's water play area closed despite soaring summer temperature

CLIFTON Park’s water park stood empty yesterday – almost a week into a heatwave at the start of the school summer holidays.

Dozens of visitors were enjoying the park’s playground, fairground and grassed areas - but the water splash area stood empty despite the mercury topping 30 deg C.

Rotherham Council blamed a delay in parts needs for maintenance and revealed that when the park does reopen on Thursday, it will only be for four days a week.

A message on the Rotherham Parks Facebook page last week said the splash park had to remain closed until Monday due to restrictions around the coronavirus pandemic, adding that it would also be closed from Monday to Wednesday this week – with no explanation for this.

The council’s head of creative programming and engagement, Leanne Buchan, said: “We know that in the hot weather families will be looking to the Water Play to help children cool off and we had hoped to have it open a little earlier.

“However unforeseen delays in essential maintenance and the supply of parts due to Covid-19 restrictions have forced a slight delay, and the Water Play is now due to re-open this Thursday.

“We appreciate everyone’s patience whilst these essential works are being completed. “Providing restrictions do not change over the coming months the Water Play facility will be open until August Bank Holiday, Monday, August 30.

“Although we know people will be eager to use the facilities, we are encouraging members of the public to be cautious and consider visiting at quieter times if possible to reduce crowds and for customers to adhere to social distancing to help keep everyone safe.”

The water play area will be open from 11am to 4.30pm between Thursday and Sunday in July and August.