BASINGSTOKE and Deane Borough Council has decided to close a paddling pool in Popley for essential maintenance on the ‘hottest day of the year’.

The council said that the splash pad in Chineham Park will be closed all day tomorrow (Friday, June 17), for essential maintenance.

The Met Office has said temperatures are set to reach highs of up to 34C by Friday – the highest level this year.

Residents who were looking forward to jump to the splash pads in Popley, however, will be disappointed because of the announcement.

The splash pad will be reopened for the weekend.

The toilet and changing facilities at the Chineham Park were set on fire twice by vandals recently.

READ MORE: Toilets and changing facilities at Chineham splash park set on fire again

But, the council has said the decision to close the splash pad tomorrow does not relate to the vandalism issue.

The council said its contractors were booked a number of weeks ago and the date was allocated according to their availability.

The local authority has apologised to the residents for closing the pad on a very hot day.

It wrote on social media: “The splash pad in Chineham Park will be closed all day on Friday 17 June for essential maintenance.

“We realise that some customers will be disappointed that the water play won't be open on what is set to be a very hot day. Unfortunately, our contractors were booked a number of weeks ago and the date was allocated according to their availability. We are expecting the facility to reopen in time for the weekend.

“This closure does not relate to the recent problems with the toilet at the site. Apologies for any inconvenience caused.”

Message from the editor

Thank you for reading this story. We really appreciate your support.

Please help us to continue bringing you all the trusted news from your area by sharing this story or by following our Facebook page.