22 Mar 2024
Why did SADC fail to consult Verulamium Park businesses ahead of slashing opening times of the popular splash park?
As part of recent service cuts introduced to balance the council’s budget, this summer the splash park will only be open for eight weeks – six during the school summer holidays, and another week either side – down from the existing 22 weeks a year.
The move will save just £6,380 per year.
But the St Albans Times has learned from SADC that nearby businesses Inn on the Park and Rockin’ Romans Golf – which includes the trampolines and adventure golf – were not informed of the changes before they were agreed by Full Council.
A source not connected to either business told us: “This is really going to have an adverse impact on those businesses which rely on the extra trade brought in by the splash park over the 22 weeks it previously opened.
“There will obviously be fewer visitors over an eight week period, which is going to take its toll.
“When you add on the increased car parking charges and the ongoing situation with a lack of public toilets in the park there are going to be tough times ahead.
“People have already said they are going to go to other towns and cities where the splash parks are open longer.”
Asked whether consultation with local businesses took place ahead of the decision, Chris Traill, SADC strategic director for community and place delivery failed to answer the question.
Instead she said: “Both the public realm and strategy and resources committees were consulted on the proposal to reduce splash park opening dates. This was part of the process for agreeing a budget for 2024/25.
“A decision was then taken by February’s Full Council meeting to proceed with this proposal alongside other recommended savings needed to ensure a balanced budget.
“There was time during this process for representations to be made to councillors or senior officers about our budget proposals during this process and, indeed, some feedback was received and considered.”
