Portsmouth City Council have decided that Hilsea Splashpool is “life expired” & therefore they will not be opening it for the 2010 season. They are currently considering the future of this space. An option they are keen on is to demolish the splashpool and replace it with a water play park, similar to those recently constructed in Southsea. Their argument seems to be that the splashpool costs money to maintain, whilst the play park will cost much less – no need for water treatment or lifeguards.

Hilsea Lido Pool for the People have suggested that Portsmouth City Council should consult with the people who use the splashpool to find out what they want for the future of that space and have created a website to encourage everyone to join the debate. Tell them what you want – is it the traditional splashpool or a water play park? What improvements could be made to the site?

All suggestions and comments can be made at the following website:

www.hilsea-lido-splashpool.co.uk

(Photo by Mike & Kate Stillwell, click on image to see more)