By Spotted Horsham | 7 August 2025
Council Responds to Forum Fountain Confusion: Splash Pad Plans Scaled Back
Horsham District Council has issued an official statement following community concerns over new “Do Not Enter” signage at the Forum fountains, and the apparent halt to promised splash pad developments.
A spokesperson for the Council stated:
“We apologise for any confusion caused by the recent replacement signage in the Forum fountain area.
Our primary concern is the health and safety of users. If your family choose to play in the fountain area they do so at their own risk and should be supervised by an adult at all times.
In 2022, plans to convert the fountain into a purpose-built children’s splash pad were reviewed. It was found that the enhanced filtration equipment needed to achieve this would not fit in the space available. Additionally, costs to deliver our original proposal to fully convert the area to a splash pad would now exceed our original budget.”
This statement clarifies two key points:
- The newly put‑up signage aims to ensure public safety, explicitly warning that the fountain is not intended as a play area—a significant shift from earlier expectations.
- The initial ambition to transform the fountain into a splash pad was reconsidered after technical and financial reviews revealed that the space could not accommodate necessary equipment, and that costs had escalated beyond the originally allocated £120,000 budget for the project .
What This Means for Residents
- No splash pad will be installed, at least under the original proposal. The project has been formally shelved due to practical limitations.
- Families can still use the fountains informally, but must do so at their own risk and under adult supervision.
- The Council acknowledges the disappointment this outcome brings, but emphasises that safety and feasibility were paramount in reaching this decision.
Moving Forward
Residents had previously been excited by plans discussed at the Council’s 2022 Cabinet meeting, which included a £120,000 investment intended to make the fountain more interactive and safer for children during summer months . However, with the new revelation, it appears that a combination of spatial constraints and rising costs rendered the plan unviable.
The Council’s response brings clarity, but many community members may still hope for alternative solutions—whether redesigning this area with a different layout or identifying other suitable venues for family‑friendly water features.
Have your say:
Share your thoughts in the comments or email James@spottedhorsham.co.uk
