REPLACING the paddling pool in Newcombes Meadow with an “enhanced” splash pad has proved the most popular option in a Crediton Town Council survey.

The local authority is considering four options for the pool, which is nearing the end of its operational life.

Option A would be to replace it with a new “like-for-like” paddling pool, option B to swap it for a smaller eight- by six-metre splash pad, option C to have an “enhanced” 16- by 12-metre splash pad, and option D to have no water play facility at all.

There are also plans to have a toilet block near the play park in which the paddling pool is situated.

Crediton Town Council asked people for their views in a survey in July.

The results, prepared for an upcoming meeting, show that of 687 responses, 47 per cent wanted option C, 41 per cent option A, eight per cent option B, and five per cent option D.

Ninety per cent of 692 respondents wanted the new toilet block.

Comments people made about option A included that a paddling pool would help children develop water confidence; it would accommodate a wider age range; it is a unique feature that fewer parks now offer; splash pads elsewhere are perceived as frequently broken or out of service; and it has strong nostalgic and cultural value, with multiple generations having used the facility.

Key points relating to the splash pad options, B and C, were that it they provide better accessibility and inclusivity; have a reduced drowning risk; can cater for more children and a broader age range; and have the potential to provide a more modern attraction for future generations. There were also concerns regarding breakdowns or periods where it is out of use.

As for option D, the removing of water play, a small group liked the idea, saying costs were too high; the facility is only used for a few months each year; funds should instead be invested in year-round facilities; existing leisure-centre pools already meet water-play needs; and that council tax increases are becoming difficult to justify.

Supporters of the toilet block said that it would be convenient for families with young children and providing changing and baby-changing facilities. Opponents were concerned there would be vandalism, anti-social behaviour, and questioned whether they were necessary given that there are toilets nearby.

In terms of funding, £154,877.95 of S106 money (from developers) is available for the project. Crediton Town Council would contribute £125,000 and Mid Devon District Council the same amount. In total, the amount available is just under £405,000.

In the survey, the town council said option A would cost £461,000 to install and £15,600 to run each year; option B would cost £333,000 to install and £10,140 to run; option C would cost £464,000 and £15,600 to run; and option D would have “unknown costs to remove” and no annual running costs. The figures exclude water pipe upgrades and planning permission and ongoing maintenance funding yet to be agreed.

Option A would mean an approximate additional cost to band D council taxpayers of roughly £5.52 per year, option B £3.68, option C £5.52, and option D nothing.

Crediton Town Council will decide which option to go ahead with when it meets on Tuesday, September 15.