Oxford's Hinksey splash park to reopen in 2025 after £100,000 grant

Plans for the new splash park include a bike and scooter track

A popular splash park will reopen next year after additional funding was secured for its refurbishment.

The new splash play area at Hinksey Park is expected to cost £330,000, with Oxford City Council investing £230,000 in the project.

The additional £100,000 grant comes from the not-for-profit FCC Communities Foundation.

It is expected be ready for the start of spring 2025.

A new 'learn and play' balance bike and scooter track for younger children will also be installed, and is expected to be completed by autumn 2024.

The splash pool needs major work to its play surface, concrete base and fountains

It's hoped the new dual function will allow the facility to remain open during winter - when the splash park is not in use.

The council confirmed the facility will remain free to use.

FCC grant manager Cheryl Raynor said: "This is an exciting and ambitious project, and we are delighted to be supporting the council to bring it to fruition."

"The level of community support for the project was high and I hope they enjoy using the new facility for many years to come," she added.

The splash park had previously remained closed after it was adjudged to be unsafe.

Follow BBC South on Facebook, X, or Instagram. Send your story ideas to [e-mail] or via WhatsApp on 0808 100 2240.