THE council has responded to backlash over its new water play park and admitted it has been considering changes to better suit people with disabilities.
Saltwich Splash, a new free-to-attend water play area that opened in Droitwich this month, has raised concerns among parents of children with disabilities because it lacks certain safety features.
Parents said that the splash pad’s lack of fencing has eliminated a key safety feature relied upon by families whose children need physical containment.
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An email from Wychavon District Council Senior Management Team also revealed that no Equality Impact Assessment was conducted on the splash pad before its opening in Droitwich Spa Lido Park on April 3.
However, it agreed that this will now be completed for future projects.
Tim Lewis, head of client services for Wychavon District Council, said: “We’ve designed our new water play areas as open, welcoming spaces that feel part of the parks they sit within rather than separate and enclosed.
“We recognise that for some families – particularly those with children with additional needs – features such as fencing can play an important role in how they experience such spaces
Consultation launched to address concerns
“We are listening carefully to the feedback and recognise the strength of feeling on this topic.
“That’s why we’re consulting this summer on the specific issue of fencing around all of our new water plays in Evesham, Pershore and Droitwich Spa.
“We hope to hear from as many users as possible so we can consider the widest range of views before deciding on our next steps.
“Our priority is to provide spaces that are safe, inclusive and welcoming for everyone, and we will continue to work with residents to ensure we strike the right balance.”
Wychavon District Council added that the splash pad’s design reflects how many are laid out in its parks and supports a broad range of play experiences.
“Saltwich Splash has been designed with accessibility in mind, including wide access points and interactive water features designed to support a range of play and engagement needs,” it added.