Aging Markeaton Park Paddling Pool under repair as future options explored

markeaton park paddling pool

Markeaton Park Paddling Pool is closed for repair work due to ongoing problems caused by the age of the structure, as Derby City Council explores options for future improvements to the area.

The paddling pool opened as scheduled for the May Bank Holiday weekend and half term. However, since opening, new damage has occurred to the pool surface meaning it has been necessary to temporarily close the facility to the public for safety reasons. Emergency repair works have been arranged and Council teams are doing everything they can with the aim of safely reopening the facility for the school summer holidays.

Extensive repair works to the pool surface were carried out in 2024 in a significant effort by the Council to preserve and extend the life of the historic attraction. However, it has now become apparent that the pool, which was created in the 1970s to replace the original 1920s paddling pool, is approaching the end of its lifespan.

Alongside this, the Council is now actively exploring modern, long-term options for the future of the site that will complement the park’s many other popular attractions, ensuring Markeaton Park as a whole remains a much-loved family destination for generations to come.

Councillor Ndukwe Onuoha, Derby City Council Cabinet Member for Streetpride, Parks and Leisure, said:

We know how much the paddling pool means to the community, and we completely understand the disappointment and frustration this news will cause. The pool was built in the 1970s and we face the reality that, despite our very best efforts to preserve it, the structure is simply reaching the end of its life.

Our immediate focus is working with specialist contractors to repair the pool so families can enjoy it this summer, but the safety of the public is our absolute priority and that is what we are focussed on.

While we are doing everything we can to get the pool open for the holidays, we are also looking ahead and actively exploring long-term options for the facility. These plans are at an early stage, but we are committed to involving the community in shaping its future, ensuring Markeaton Park remains a fantastic destination for families for years to come.

Markeaton Park is Derby’s most visited park and has a host of attractions to keep visitors entertained, including picturesque parkland and walking trails, sports facilities, the Tree House Trek high ropes course and the popular Craft Village and Orangery Café. During the school holidays, families can enjoy bouncy castles, electric cars, canoes, mini golf and fairground rides at Mundy Play Centre, plus the Famous Trains model railway.

The Water Play area at Chaddesden Park is open from midday until 5pm at weekends and during the school holidays (weather permitting) until early September.