Thousands spent on Oxford Hinksey splash park reimagination

Oxford City Council set aside £280,000 in its budget for the new facility off Abingdon Road in Hinksey.

This comes as Hinksey Park's splash facility was earmarked for closure in Autumn last year with a consultation held to determine what should replace it.

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Councillor Naomi Waite, of the Hinksey Park ward, said: "I shared the widespread concern that it wasn't able to open this year.

"I am delighted that it will be reimagined and reopened with a significant investment from Oxford City Council despite very difficult economic times for local government across the country."

Naomi Waite. (Image: Oxford City Council.)

A total of 311 people, of which 80 per cent had used the facility, responded to an online consultation that ran in October and November. 

Among the respondents, 74 per cent thought the enclosure should be open all year round and 74 per cent also supported the idea of a dedicated space where younger children could develop their "motor skills on balance bikes".

Oxford city council has suggested a "downscaled version" of the previous park is likely.

A city council spokesman said: "The council agreed substantial funding for the Hinksey Park splash facility because it's a hugely popular attraction for local families, but sadly is in need of replacement.

The splash pad was closed over the summer. (Image: Newsquest)

"We are looking at ways of attracting external funding to make it even better, but in any event we will consult local people on what they would like to see in due course.

"Hinksey Park is a lovely place and a renewed splash feature would give it a further boost."

One anonymous person living in the area said in the consultation: "This is great, though in my opinion this design is flawed.

"You can’t sit and picnic under the trees where some shade might be needed.

"The splash entrance seems a bit too cordoned off.

"Where is everyone going to sit in between splashing about?"

Design of the splash park is yet to be finalised.

Anna Railton. (Image: Oxford City Council.)

Hinksey Park ward councillor Anna Railton said the idea was to get a more well-rounded facility as maintenance cost had previously been high.

She added: "I am super happy to have secured the funding for this well loved community asset.

"I am looking forward to having a facility open again that everyone can use all year round.

"The community showed how much they valued the splash park with the overwhelming response they gave to the consultation on its replacement last year.

"I can't wait to work with everyone to get the new one delivered."