Hosepipe ban stops vandalised paddling pool being refilled

Why it matters: Broken beer bottles, including pieces of glass in the water itself, have made the popular paddling pool unsafe for children during the final days of the school summer holidays.

The details: The council said the paddling pool needs a full inspection and clean-up before it can reopen. Holywells splash pad will remain open, weather permitting, but Bourne paddling pool will not be refilled due to current water restrictions.

What they're saying: Cllr Stefan Long, Ipswich Borough Council's portfolio holder for environment and sport, said: "This is such a senseless act by those who have left dangerous glass where children play. I am really sad that under current water restrictions, this means we have to leave the paddling pool dry. I hope those responsible consider how this affects local young children who would have enjoyed the pool in the last days of their summer holidays."

For context: The restrictions stem from Anglian Water's Temporary Use Ban, commonly known as a hosepipe ban, which has already affected other council operations. Ipswich.co.uk reported this week that a town centre pavement clean-up ground to a halt after less than two hours because of the same restrictions, with the council saying pavement cleaning is now only carried out where there is an environmental, public health or safety need.

The bottom line: The council has apologised for the inconvenience and thanked residents for their understanding while it carries out the necessary safety measures – but with the pool set to stay dry for now, families looking to cool off will need to head to Holywells instead.

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