Heworth Leisure Centre's new water play area delayed

A CGI of Heworth Leisure Centre's new aqua play area <i>(Image: Heworth Leisure Centre)</i>
A CGI of Heworth Leisure Centre's new aqua play area (Image: Heworth Leisure Centre)
This article is brought to you by our exclusive subscriber partnership with our sister title USA Today, and has been written by our American colleagues. It does not necessarily reflect the view of The Herald.

The launch of a new indoor aqua play attraction in the region has been delayed due to technical issues and external supply problems.

Heworth Leisure Centre in Gateshead was due to open the Splash Pad and Aqua Play area, designed for children under eight, as part of a wider investment in the borough’s leisure facilities.

However, plans have now been postponed.

In a statement, Heworth Leisure Centre said: "Unfortunately, due to technical difficulties and delays involving an external supplier, the opening of our new Splash Pad and Aqua Play area has had to be postponed.

"We understand this is disappointing news, and we're just as eager as you are to get everything up and running.

"We're incredibly excited to bring Gateshead's first indoor Aqua Play experience to Heworth, giving children under 8 a fun, warm, and interactive water play environment whatever the weather."

The spokesman said: "Before opening, all equipment must be fully installed, tested, and approved to ensure the best possible experience for our visitors.

"We will continue to keep you updated and share a revised opening date as soon as we have confirmation.

"Thank you again for your understanding, patience, and continued support."

The splash pad is part of a broader upgrade programme across Gateshead’s leisure sites.

In May 2025, Gateshead Council said that a new family offer would replace the existing FlowRider attraction at Heworth in early 2026.

More than £200,000 was allocated to the Heworth aqua-play scheme and the removal of the former FlowRider attraction, as part of more than £1.3 million invested across four Gateshead leisure facilities.

The new splash pad is aimed at children aged eight and under and is due to include interactive spray jets, gentle fountains and open play space.

The Northern Echo has reached out to the centre for further information on the delays and an expected opening date.

Get involved
with the news

Send your news & photos