Rivelin Valley Water Play Area reopens today in time for sweltering 27C heat, councillor confirms
It was shut over the hottest weekend of the year so far
A council run splash park for children that shut over the hottest weekend of the year so far will reopen today.
Rivelin Valley Water Park was shut over the scorching 31C Spring Bank Holiday Weekend 2026.
Sheffield Council apologised about the closure explaining that “essential works to maintain water quality and site safety” had been carried out.
But angry parents said they had not been made aware of the closure before they visited the park and suggested that it should have been announced in advance.
Now, the splash park is back open as of Thursday, May 28 - just in time for a sweltering 27C day in Sheffield.
The reopening was confirmed by ward councillor for Stannington Dr Will Sapwell, who is also calling for “an internal review as to how the delays happened so the same mistakes aren't repeated.”
He told The Star: “It's a real disappointment that the Rivelin Water Play area wasn't ready in time for half term, especially considering the glorious weather.
“I've already asked for an internal review to prevent maintenance delays affecting the park next year.
“However, I'm really glad we got things sorted quickly so kids and parents can use the park for the rest of half term.”
Following complaints from parents over the closure, Sheffield Council’s parks and countryside Facebook page posted a statement on May 26: “If you visited Rivelin Vallley water play during the bank holiday weekend and found it closed, we apologise for any disappointment or inconvenience caused.
“We have been carrying out essential works to maintain water quality and site safety.
“We aim to have the water play open again later this week and will provide an update as soon as it's ready for action, then it's yours for the whole summer!”