Eastbourne MP 'gutted' following Splash Pad closure

Eastbourne MP Josh Babarinde stated he is "gutted" following the sudden closure of the Princes Park Splash Pad due to a broken water pump valve

The breakdown occurred on Tuesday, July 14, 2026, just 11 days after the popular family attraction was officially reopened following a high-profile community funding campaign. 

Key Details of the Closure

• The Cause: A busted water pump valve stopped water from pumping correctly through the playground's water features.
• The Impact: The free-to-use facility is completely out of action during the peak summer period.
• The Response: According to reports by the Sussex Express, Eastbourne Borough Council (EBC) engineering teams are actively working to source replacement parts and fix the valve as soon as possible. 

Background on the Attraction

The Princes Park playground had previously been shut down since 2024 due to intense local authority budget constraints, as the annual running costs reach approximately £25,000. MP Josh Babarinde and EBC leader Stephen Holt successfully fought to reopen the site on July 3, 2026, by securing a joint external funding package from Southern Water, Best Demolition, and council allocations. 

In his official social media reaction, Babarinde shared his frustration but urged residents to remain patient while specialized maintenance experts handle the complex mechanical repairs