Gheluvelt Park: Worcester splash pad not open yet despite heat

The splash pad at Gheluvelt Park is a well-used attraction with parents taking their children to cool down on sunny days.

It would usually be open by now, with Worcester City Council starting its operation last year on April 15, the Easter school holiday. 

However, the water play area is set to open for the first time this year more than a month later on Friday, May 24. Meanwhile, temperatures are set to reach highs of 24 degrees this weekend. 

In September last year, councillors approved the move to slash the number of days the splash pad at Gheluvelt Park in Worcester opens a year from 166 to 100 – saving around £26,000 per year.

People have taken to social media to share their frustration that the splash pad is yet to open.

Sy Adams described it as a "bit of a joke really when the weather is good".

The splash pad is yet to open this year (Image: Newsquest)

Sue Fish said it will "be raining" by the time it eventually opens, adding "open it now."

Janey Potter said it was "madness" that it's not open yet.

Shannon Catherine Oleary said: "What a shame it’s well nice weather next week."

Others suggested nearby splash pad attractions that are already open, including Kidderminster and Pershore.

Jonathan Kainey-Smith added: "I took my son over to Pershore and their splash pads are open and it was lovely. Abbey Park - highly recommended".

A spokesperson for Worcester City Council said: “Councillors agreed on the opening times for the Splashpad at Gheluvelt Park last year.

“For 2024 the Splashpad is due to be in operation between 24 May and 1 September.

“For opening times please see the Worcester City Council website.”

The full opening times are May 24 to July 18, from 11am until 4pm, and July 19 to September 1, from 11am until 6pm.