Splash World waterpark will reopen this weekend after being closed for almost four years.
Southport's iconic attraction will open to the public on Saturday, May 27. The leisure centre closed in December 2019 for a refurbishment that was only meant to last eight months.
Problems grew for the council in October 2022, when contractors working on the refurbishment said they were facing "unforeseen challenges" to complete the work. But on Thursday, May 25, Sefton Council announced the long-awaited reopening of the all-weather attraction.
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In June last year a report was published calling for a decision to be made on funding, it has been stated that an estimated £270,000 will be needed to pay for further repair costs.
In May 2021, it was stated the closure had come as a result of “significant health and safety concerns stemming from failure in the pool tile surfaces”. Sefton Council had lodged a legal claim against Splash World’s original developers relating to “latent defects” at the facility after spending “several years” trying to resolve the issue informally. Splash World did reopen during the pandemic when it was used as a test centre.
Water lovers young and old will be able to rediscover Splash World's exhilarating aquatic adventures, just in time for the expected bustling summer season. Nestled on Southport's picturesque coastline, Splash World has been a favourite destination for families, friends, and water enthusiasts for many years.
It offers a wide range of attractions, including thrilling water slides, a lazy river and interactive play areas suitable for all ages. A spokesperson for Sefton Council said there is also a new online booking system, meaning families can reserve tickets in advance.
Cllr Ian Moncur, Sefton Council’s Cabinet Member for Health and Wellbeing said: "We are absolutely thrilled to welcome the public back to Splash World.
"Saturday’s reopening marks an exciting milestone for us, and we have taken every measure possible to once again provide an extremely enjoyable, safe experience for all visitors. Whether you're seeking an adrenaline rush on our exhilarating slides or a relaxing time in the lazy river, Splash World has something for everyone.
“Nobody could have foreseen the pandemic or that it would mean Splash World being closed for this length of time, but I know our teams did everything they could to ensure the venue was reopened as soon as possible.”
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