Work is underway to create a new water play facility in an Exeter park.
Once complete, the new facility at Heavitree Pleasure Grounds will provide families with a modern, inclusive and sustainable water play destination.
The old paddling pools had to close for good in June after the ageing infrastructure failed. Underground pipework, water treatment and filtration systems, pumps, electrical infrastructure, drainage systems and surrounding surfacing all needed to be replaced.
It was decided at this point to press ahead instead with the new plans.
The new facility will incorporate a dedicated shallow water play area, providing space for children to paddle, splash, and enjoy water-play in a safe and accessible environment.
Alongside this, the larger former pool area will be transformed into an interactive splash play space featuring a range of water effects designed to encourage exploration, sensory play, and active recreation.
Cllr Duncan Wood, Lead Councillor for Leisure Service, Healthy Living & Public Realm Management, said “The new project represents a significant investment in the future of a much-loved community facility, ensuring it can continue to serve children and families for years to come.”
Community feedback has played an important role in shaping the project. During public consultation, more than 74% of respondents supported a facility that combined traditional water play opportunities with interactive splash play features.
This feedback informed the procurement process and helped shape the council’s aspirations for the site.
The Council's original aspiration was to retain a larger traditional paddling pool offer while upgrading the facility to modern standards. However, it soon became clear that a traditional refurbishment, combined with the replacement of ageing infrastructure and compliance with modern water quality standards, could not be delivered within the funding available.
The new facility is expected to include:
- A dedicated shallow water play and paddling area
- Wheelchair-accessible routes and improved access throughout
- Distinct play zones for different ages and activity levels
- Gentle water features for younger children
- More interactive play features for older children
- Features that support sensory and inclusive play elements
- Improved accessibility through layout and design
While many of the improvements will be visible above ground, a significant proportion of the investment will be focused on critical infrastructure. New pumps, filtration equipment, circulation systems, and electrical installations will bring the facility up to modern standards. The investment replaces infrastructure that has served the community for many years but is increasingly costly and difficult to maintain.
Sustainability has been built into the project from the outset. Modern water treatment and filtration systems will improve efficiency and help reduce long-term running costs. The design also provides flexibility for the future, with infrastructure that could support additional water play features if further funding becomes available.
The redesigned layout will create more usable space for families to gather, relax and enjoy the wider park environment. New seating will help create a welcoming destination, while opportunities for additional shade provision are also being explored, subject to available funding.
Work is currently proceeding well and the Council will keep people updated as it progresses, with an opening date becoming clearer once project milestones have been reached.
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