Barking Splash Park opens this weekend

Barking Splash Park will be free to use this weekend (May 25th-27th) to mark its opening.

Built on the site of the old Barking Lido, the wet play facility forms part of the Barking Park Restoration and Improvement Project. Families who lease out property to rent in Barking will be able to enjoy the new attraction.

The development was made possible thanks to a grant from the Heritage Lottery Fund Urban Parks Programme and local residents will now be hopeful the area gets good weather this weekend.

Councillor HJ Collins, cabinet member for culture, leisure and sport, said: "I think its fantastic news that the old Barking Lido has been redesigned as a new wet play facility and I think Barking Splash Park is a great new addition in the borough and one which I am sure many children and young people will enjoy using."

The park will be open for six months of the year - from April to September - weather permitting. Two of the original 1930's water fountains have been incorporated into the design. It means the local community will once again have a water facility to go and enjoy.

Barking Splash Park is part of an initiative to get more kids active. Youngsters are meant to take 60 minutes of exercise every day and those lucky enough to go along to the facility will get the opportunity to do just that. There are a range of other leisure centres in Barking for those keen to keep fit. Abbey, Becontree Heath, Goresbrook and Castle Green can all be visited by anyone.

The location has been opened in time for the Queen's Diamond Jubilee and there will be a range of other events put on in Barking to celebrate the landmark. These include a twilight classical concert, a special lunch and a tea party. Mr Collins stated: "I hope that during these four days all residents attend at least one event, whether it's organised by the council or a neighbour."

Posted by Ben Carter

Published 24th May, 2012

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