The campaign to save Ryde Splash Park has moved one step closer following a council meeting last night (Wednesday).
‘All viable options’ will be considered for the future use of the seafront site, Island councillors decided as a petition calling for the facility’s refurbishment and preservation passes 3,600 signatures.
The motion passed by full council says County Hall acknowledges the ‘strength of community support’ for the provision of accessible and inclusive play facilities in Ryde.
The splash park, which has fallen into disrepair, was originally designed for young children and opened in memory of Isaac Hayward, a boy with cerebral palsy who tragically died aged 5 in 2001.
Campaigners have said the Isle of Wight Council, as the landowner and body responsible for issuing any lease, holds the key to the site’s future.
The motion states:
“Following receipt of the Ryde Splash Park petition, the council acknowledges the strength of community support for the provision of accessible and inclusive play facilities in Ryde and confirms its commitment to working with the local community to consider the future of the site.”
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It includes a commitment to undertake a comprehensive play needs assessment for the Ryde area, informed by ‘meaningful engagement’ with children and young people under the age of 15, parents, carers, local schools, and other current and potential users of the site, to ensure future provision reflects identified need.
