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Stay and Splash Paddocks Paddling Pool

Stay and Splash Paddocks Paddling Pool

It is with great sadness that Castle Point Borough and the operators of Stay and Splash announce the closure of the paddling pool at the Paddocks on Canvey Island with immediate effect.

For decades the paddling pool, sand pit and children’s play equipment have provided local children with fun packed days during the warmer months of the year.  For the last four years the site has been successfully managed under lease from the Council by Kevin and Sarah Walby.

Unfortunately, the ageing venue requires extensive upgrading and refurbishment works and the cost to ensure that the site continues to comply with health and safety and pool safety legislation and best practice has become too great for either the Council or the Walbys to sustain.

he Leader of the Council, Councillor Norman Smith said “The closure of the paddling pool is extremely disappointing as it has been a much loved venue for local families and from those further afield.   Thousands of children over many years have enjoyed the facilities on offer and cooled themselves in the paddling pool’s water.  We know that many people will have fond memories of visiting the  facility which in recent years has been operated by Sarah and Kevin Walby who have worked hard to maintain the site but unfortunately the ongoing cost of undertaking the necessary refurbishment works on this ageing facility is no longer sustainable or viable for either the Council or the operators.  The Council would very much like to provide a modern, well equipped water play area  in the future and we are exploring possible options and for a potential new water play facility.”

Sarah Walby said “It is with great sadness that Stay and Splash will cease trading this year. After several meetings with the Council we have concluded that the investment needed to ensure Stay and Splash continues to operate to the standard  we would want it to will cost far too much. We would like to thank every single visitor for the support and great times you  have given us and our staff over the last 4 years , we will miss it greatly. However, we will continue with  talks with the Council and are hoping for some exciting news regarding a new splash park.”