PLANS to install a splash pad in King George V playing field have moved forward, with work earmarked to start in November this year, to be ready for use in 2019.
Councillors voted unanimously to tender for the design, supply and installation of the splashpad at this month’s town council asset management meeting.
Mayor of Melksham, cllr Adrienne Westbrook said, “We made a promise and commitment to the people of Melksham when we took away the paddling pool a year ago, that we would have a splash pad in place as soon as we possibly could.
“We have to seek tender documents now, because if we are actually to start getting this in for next year, we have to start the build in about November time.”
The splash pad will be installed in front of the multi-use games area (MUGA) next to the cricket pavilion.
Deputy mayor, cllr Jon Hubbard, described the project as a ‘hugely exciting opportunity for the town’ that will create a ‘destination feature’, increasing tourism and income to Melksham.
The consultation period is still on-going, and the town council has chosen the site of where the splashpad will be located in the park.
In a statement, they said, “Melksham Town Council are delighted to be going to tender on the waterplay facility it committed to after the strong public outcry for closing the old paddling pool. It is unfortunate that we cannot consult the public as to its location within the park owing to the utilities and other technical restrictions.
“We know the public are absolutely in favour of the splash pad, and this was confirmed in the initial stages of consultation. We are sure the public will understand that this is just one small element within the park, and are looking forward to their ideas on the many other areas and facilities currently being discussed. We would urge people to have their say and complete a feedback from any time between now and August.”
