The Friends of Ruskin Park have already made substantial progress in their fundraising drive to refurbish the park’s paddling pool.
As of today, the charity has nearly £10,000 of its £15,000 target and is now renewing its appeal.
The work required is expected to cost about £80,000. This is planned to come from the current fundraiser, Lambeth council, previous fundraising, grant applications and a £10,000 donation from local property experts Urban Village.
The project is scheduled for completion by 2022.
The pool has been a popular local amenity since it opened in the 1920s. When funding cuts led to its closure in 2015, crowdfunders then quickly raised more than £15,000 to bring it back to life.
A broken water pump and the introduction of social distancing led to the pool being closed in March last year.
However, local volunteers, backed by a community partnership (including Urban Village, Lambeth Landscapes and Friends of Ruskin Park) with the help of the London Fire Brigade, refilled the pool in July this year – enabling a shorter than usual summer season which ended on 5 September, but was still “a massive success”.
“This summer we’ve seen the paddling pool at its best, as a lifeline for parents and youngsters from across the community,” said local councillor Jim Dickson, cabinet member for health and adult social care.
“It’s time to secure its long-term future with the full refurbishment it needs.”
The full refurbishment is will more water jets, a new plant room and equipment, repairs to the pool surface and a dedicated mains water supply.
The Friends say any additional funds raised will be used to maintain or improve the paddling pool or other play facilities in line with their charitable objectives.
The Ruskin Park Summer Fete, with Urban Village’s support, also raised funds this year.
The park is always on the lookout for volunteers to help drain and clean it, ensuring a safe environment for local children.
If you are interested, email info@urbanvillagehomes.com or volunteering@friendsofruskinpark.org.uk
