Growing up in Southampton, I have fond memories of visiting places like the paddling pool at Mayflower Park and Southampton Lido. These facilities were community treasures, offering families a place to gather, children to play, and individuals to enjoy the beautiful outdoors without the burden of cost. Unfortunately, over time, these precious spaces were sacrificed in the name of redevelopment, leaving a void in our community.

Currently, Southampton lacks a dedicated splash park, forcing many families to travel outside the city just to enjoy such an amenity. This not only places financial and time burdens on families, but also deprives our community of a central meeting place where children can play safely and parents can socialise.

A splash park at Southampton Sports Centre in Bassett would not only provide an accessible, safe, and enjoyable place for children but also rejuvenate community spirit and enhance the local environment. The Sports Centre is underway with a £36M upgrade, and adding a splash park would elevate it to a new level, offering a free recreational option for local families and attracting more people to utilise the facilities.

The benefits of having a splash park are numerous. It fosters community interaction, encourages physical activity among children, and creates a sense of community pride. Moreover, it would make Southampton a more attractive place for families, thereby supporting local businesses and potentially boosting the economy.

We urge Southampton City Council and relevant stakeholders to consider this proposal seriously and take action towards making it a reality. A splash park will not only serve current residents but will be a legacy for future generations to come.

Sign up to my campaign today to enrich our community. Together, we can bring back the joys of free, public water play to Southampton families at Southampton Sports Centre. 

Please sign this petition to show your support for building a children's splash park at the Sports Centre in Bassett. Your signature can help bring about a change that will benefit our community for years to come.