Project: (3269) Clifton Park
Client: Rotherham Metropolitan District Council
Design: Ustigate Waterplay / Vortex International
Project Description: Design and build of a paddling pool and two splash pads
Water Management: PWTAG compliant recirculation system
Main Contractor: Ustigate Waterplay
Installation: 2025 / Area: 1500m²
Challenge:
Originally installed in 2008 as part of a Heritage Lottery Fund project, Clifton Park’s much-loved water play had served the community for over 15 years, but increasing popularity and wear had left elements outdated and in need of renewal. Clifton Park’s existing water play area required modernisation to improve accessibility, inclusivity and overall play value.
The project focused on replacing outdated equipment with a contemporary water play environment that could cater to a broad range of users, including children of different ages and abilities as well as those with SEND requirements. Alongside this, there was a clear need to integrate a sustainable and efficient water management solution while ensuring the facility would deliver long-term value for the community. Extensive consultation with local stakeholders, including park visitors, schools and SEND groups played a key role in shaping the brief, ensuring the final design was directly informed by the needs and expectations of those who would use it.
Success:
Ustigate Waterplay partnered with Rotherham Metropolitan Borough Council to deliver a vibrant new water play destination at Clifton Park, transforming an ageing splash facility into an inclusive, modern space designed for the whole community.
Following extensive consultation with local stakeholders, including schools, park visitors and SEND groups, the project set out to create a welcoming environment that reflects how today’s communities use outdoor spaces: accessible, engaging and suitable for all ages.
At the heart of the redevelopment is a carefully considered layout combining a paddling pool with two distinct splash pad experiences. The inclusion of a paddling pool provides a subtle nod to the park’s historic waterplay heritage, which dates back to earlier recreational uses of the site, and the zoning approach ensures a natural progression through play, from gentle, low-level interaction to more dynamic and social water features.
The first splash pad has been designed as an inclusive discovery space, where younger children and those new to water play can explore at their own pace. Ground sprays, misting effects and interactive elements such as Twirltecâ„¢ create a hands-on, sensory experience that builds confidence and encourages curiosity. Additional features include spinning orbs, directional jets and interactive water elements that allow children to control and influence the flow of water, supporting both physical and cognitive play development.
In contrast, the second splash pad provides a high-energy focal point within the park. Featuring larger-scale equipment, including a prominent tipping bucket, this area invites shared play and delivers moments of excitement that bring people together.
Supporting the play experience is a PWTAG compliant recirculation system, designed to maximise water efficiency while maintaining the highest standards of safety and quality. By separating return and treated water, the system enables continuous reuse, ensuring the facility is both sustainable and operationally effective. The PWTAG compliant recirculation system reduces water waste and allows for a high number of interactive features. This sustainable approach aligns with the project’s wider environmental objectives, including promoting awareness of water conservation.
The revitalised facility sits within one of Rotherham’s most significant public parks, which has retained its Green Flag status for over 15 consecutive years and holds Green Heritage recognition for its Victorian history, further reinforcing the importance of sensitive, high-quality improvements within this historic setting.
Widely considered one of the largest free-to-use water play attractions of its kind in the UK, the facility strengthens Clifton Park’s position as a regional leisure destination. The result is a dynamic and inclusive water play environment that has quickly become a major destination for families, with capacity for hundreds of visitors and free access helping to ensure it remains accessible to all. The new facility offers families a place to connect, play and enjoy the outdoors, reinforcing the park’s role at the heart of the local community. Delivered in close collaboration with Rotherham Metropolitan Borough Council, Clifton Park reflects a shared commitment to creating spaces that prioritise people, supporting wellbeing, encouraging active lifestyles and providing lasting social value for years to come.
