Petition calls on council to 'provide free family alternatives' as Leamington and Warwick paddling pools remain closed

In May, the council announced the paddling pools at St Nicholas Park and Victoria Park would remain closed for the bank holiday weekend and beyond.

The council said they would “remain closed pending completion of the defect repair programme” and cited “unavoidable delays and ongoing challenges” which included weather conditions and “the availability of some sub-contractors”.

Having been closed in 2024, both pools were due to re-open in May 2025 but the projects were delayed.

The pool in Victoria Park opened on July 26 and was closed less than three weeks later “due to a range of technical issues”.

Subsequently, the re-opening of the St Nicholas Park paddling pool was also postponed.

A petition has now been created calling on the council to provide a free alternative while the pools remain closed.

Deepika Lather, who lives in Leamington, started the petition.

She said: “I started the petition because I take my children to Victoria Park almost every day, and my son keeps asking me when the paddling pool will open. I honestly did not know what to say to him.

“It is not just my child either. When I speak to other parents in the park, many of them say their children are asking the same thing. That is what made me feel that something should be raised properly.

“For me, this petition is not about blaming anyone. It is simply about asking what is happening, when the pools might open, and what families can do in the meantime.”

She added “Of course, the best thing would be to see the paddling pools open safely as soon as possible.

“But if they are not going to open soon, or not this summer, then I think families should be told clearly.

“The council should also look at some temporary options for children and families while the pools remain closed.

“That could be discounted or free family swimming sessions, children’s sessions at another council-run facility, or some other safe activity during the warmer months.”

The petition has been online for around two weeks and so far 250 people have signed it.

Deepika said the need for clear answers is also a motive behind the petition, saying many parents feel the same way.

She said: “The main thing is that families should not just be left waiting without any clear answer or alternative.

“I have also emailed Councillor Will Roberts, who I understand is responsible for neighbourhood and community facilities.

“As families and residents, we simply want to know what the plan is.

“If the paddling pools are not repaired and ready to use, then what alternatives can be provided in the meantime?

“A lot of the frustration I have seen from families is not only that the paddling pools are closed, but that there does not seem to be any alternative being offered for the summer.

“I understand councils have pressures and safety has to come first, but families also need clear communication and some practical options while the pools remain closed.

She added: “The paddling pools may not seem like a big issue to everyone, but for families with young children, they really do matter. They are free, local, and something children look forward to in the warmer months.

“Within the first few hours of putting the petition online, more than 100 people had already signed it, and the number is still increasing.

“On Facebook as well, many families have shared their frustration. I think that shows this is not just one parent raising a concern, many local families feel the same.”

To sign the petition, go to: https://www.change.org/p/provide-free-family-alternatives-while-warwick-district-paddling-pools-remain-closed

Warwick District Council has been approached for a comment but is yet to respond.