A paddling pool which was closed for rennovations two years ago will be reopening this summer, after fears it would be delayed even further. Local residents have cried out for the pool to be fixed or at least have fencing removed as it was an "eyesore"
Workers have been spotted at St Andrews Park earlier this month. They were cleaning the previously well-used pool of dirt, leaves and rubbish.
The paddling pool, in Bishopston, had previously been a popular spot for families in the warmer weather. And it looks as though this summer it will be again as Bristol City Council has issued an update to say the pool should be open again by May.
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Residents feared the pool would not reopen after the coronavirus pandemic meant there were delays to renovation work. A petition was launched to try and remove the fencing surrounding the paddling pool earlier this year, claiming it was causing a "detrimental effect on park-goers". "We simply demand that the fence is removed, there is no justification for this imposing eyesore being there a moment longer," the petition read.
The council has confirmed the fencing is linked to the renovation work, which will be removed when the work is complete by May. They have confirmed the pool will reopen for the new season this year after refurbishment work is complete.
A Bristol City Council spokesperson said: “Refurbishment works on the paddling pool are due to begin in the coming weeks to prepare it for reopening in May. These refurbishment works will include repairing some minor defects and carrying out some painting work, and will see the fencing remain in place for the time being.”
The paddling pool was first closed in March 2020 in preparation for the annual summer renovations, however, the first lockdown then meant it did not re-open, the council spokesperson confirmed. Other facilities on-site include toilets, a mobile café and picnic tables.