A children’s pool in Beckenham has been emptied during London’s heatwave after inspectors discovered issues regarding it’s safety. The paddling pool within Croydon Road Recreation Ground will remain shut to the public until further notice, with Bromley Council reportedly looking for a solution.
The sad news was confirmed by the Friends of Croydon Road Recreation Ground group last week, calling the Beckenham closure ‘unfortunate’. A statement posted on Facebook reads: “We regret to inform you that the difficult decision has been made to temporarily close the paddling pool at Croydon Road Recreation Ground.
“This follows health and safety concerns, which were picked up during a recent site inspection. Idverde [pool maintenance] are currently seeking specialist advice on the required repairs and will be reviewing the next steps with the Council.”
A potential reopening date has not yet been confirmed. The popular water feature has been a staple for Bromley families since the 1930s.
Usually open on hot days and throughout the summer holidays, young ones and their parents can keep cool for hours on end at no cost. News of its ‘temporary’ closure has left South Londoners scratching their head, particularly as temperatures are predicted to reach the high 27C+ next week.
‘Such a shame as so many children have a great time using it’
Many feel a site inspection should have been carried out at the start of the year in preparation for the warm weather. One disgruntled park user said: “Such a shame. It’s one of the only community splash pools in the area (that I know of). Very poor show to leave it until now to get it sorted.
“Bromley Council are notoriously slow at sorting anything out that costs money so let’s hope it doesn’t become a permanent closure…”
Another added: “Such a shame as so many children have a great time using it. Bromley need to get their bums in gear!,” with a third writing: “These checks surely should be done in the winter ready for the summer. Absolute joke.”
Others raised concerns the pool will face a similar fate to the two ‘rotting’ footbridges in Kelsey Park. These were closed some years ago, again due to safety concerns, but are yet to be upgraded.
Bromley Council committed to spending £567,000 to repair one of the bridges in November 2022, with an estimated completion date of Summer 2024. However, it was later revealed a contractor is yet to be found.
Idverde and Bromley Council have been contacted for comment.
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