ACT planning authorities have decided not to terminate the lease for Canberra's only water park, Big Splash, despite community backlash. Access Canberra announced it is satisfied the operators have made moves to reopen the facility's 50-metre pool later this year.
The government had threatened lease termination after the park closed for about two years, but Access Canberra said works were underway to repair the site. The operators committed to opening the 50-metre pool by November 1, 2025, with Access Canberra monitoring progress and reserving the right to take further regulatory action.
However, community members are concerned about the site's future, as owners are expected to lodge plans to demolish water slides and other infrastructure. Planning Minister Chris Steel said the decision on water slides rests with the owners, while the government has ruled out rezoning the land for anything other than recreational use.
ACT Greens deputy leader Jo Clay expressed disappointment, stating the community expected enforcement action. Chair of Save Big Splash, Amelia Tattam, called the decision 'completely appalling', emphasizing that a water park without slides is not what the community wanted.
