Walmer and Faversham outdoor pools to remain closed in Kent but Swanley Park splash pool is open for bookings

Hopes that Walmer Paddling Pool could reopen this summer have been dashed.

Operators Your Leisure have announced the lido on The Strand near Deal won't be opening.

Walmer Paddling Pool will remain closed this summer
Walmer Paddling Pool will remain closed this summer

Strict hygiene procedures, that "would be impractical for a small facility" have forced the decision, a statement on the pool's facebook page said this week.

Plus, the stringent measures would "take away any enjoyment of using the pool," the post added.

The attraction close to the seafront, popular with families during the school holidays, is not the only outdoor pool to say it's impossible to welcome back families this month.

Faversham outdoor pool has also confirmed that it too will remain closed because bosses say reopening with social distancing in place is not financially viable.

Faversham outdoor pool has not reopened this summer
Faversham outdoor pool has not reopened this summer

The neighbouring indoor pool however does intend to reopen in September but the outdoor attractions, which include a 33m pool with diving boards and a splash pool for children complete with slides and a rapids feature, will remain closed now until 2021.

Council bosses in Medway have also taken the same decision over its outdoor lido at The Strand, which will remain shut to the public this summer.

In Tonbridge, the town's outdoor pool has reopened, but it is only welcoming those who are lane swimming in 45 minute sessions, which must be pre-booked online.

But over at Swanley Park, children looking to cool off can do so in its splash pool providing that they have pre-booked their visit.

Swanley Park is open to pre-booked visitors
Swanley Park is open to pre-booked visitors

The popular park, which alongside the outdoor pool, boasts play areas, a miniature railway, inflatables and a boating lake says only those families who have rung ahead and confirmed their session will be able to gain access to the splash pool and its facilities.

To learn more about making a pool booking this summer, which must be done by phone, visit the park's facebook page here.

For more suggestions of things to do with the kids this summer please click here.

Share this story

COMPETITION

Win a football coaching session at Ballerz in Bluewater with former England star Rio Ferdinand


Helpful links

Local news