The future of the Big Splash waterpark in Canberra has taken a significant turn, with the iconic slides declared beyond repair. Following a meeting with Purdon, representatives of the waterpark’s ownership, Jo Clay, the ACT Greens Deputy Leader and Member for Ginninderra, confirmed that there are no current plans to rezone the site. The waterpark will remain designated as a recreational space for the community.
Clay expressed her gratitude for the community’s efforts, stating, “This shows the power of community action—it’s a testament to the many Canberrans who petitioned for Big Splash to remain an accessible place for people to gather, have fun, swim, and cool off during summer.” This commitment from the community received backing from all 25 Parliamentarians, securing assurances that the land will continue to support recreational facilities.
Despite the positive news regarding zoning, the announcement that the slides are too damaged to repair has disappointed many in the community. Clay noted, “This is upsetting news for our community—those slides make the waterpark such a fun place. With the slides going, there will be change.”
Plans for Future Development
As discussions about the future of the site unfold, the ACT Government has promised that community members will be consulted. Clay highlighted that there will be collaborative design efforts to ensure that any developments align with community needs. “I was reassured that the community will be consulted, with some co-design, in the coming months over any changes to the site,” she stated.
Preliminary concepts for the transformed space were shared by Purdon, which include ideas for a pool, water play facilities, and indoor recreation options. Additionally, the Minister for Sport and Recreation mentioned the possibility of integrating a hotel into the plans, further expanding the potential of the waterpark area.
Clay emphasized the importance of community involvement in the decision-making process, stating, “What that looks like needs to be discussed, in consultation and co-design, with the community including others who have views and knowledge about how to run a waterpark.” This approach aims to ensure that the new developments meet the desires and expectations of Canberrans.
The sentiment among residents is clear: there is a strong demand for a waterpark in Canberra. As discussions begin regarding the future of Big Splash, community members are eager to voice their opinions and contribute to shaping the site’s next chapter. With the promise of transparency and collaboration, the community looks forward to being actively involved in this significant planning effort.
