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Saanich closes popular water parks over environmental concern

2 splash pads close over 'system performance' issue sending potable water into storm drain
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Saanich Mayor Dean Murdock celebrates the opening of the Rutledge Park splash pad, the newest in Greater Victoria.

Right in the thick of summer, two Saanich splash pads are closed for “system performance” issues – including a brand new one.

The Rutledge Park splash pad, which opened in June, was closed first to investigate an issue discovered on Thursday, July 18.

On Friday, the district alerted users that after examination, the Beckwith Park facility faced a similar problem.

“Potable water is entering the storm drain system which may have impacts on aquatic life downstream. The district takes the protection of the environment seriously, so the splash pads are being closed out of an abundance of caution as our investigation and maintenance work continues,” Saanich said in a news release.

Both popular splash parks were closed Saturday, with the reopening date undetermined.

“Staff will continue to investigate the system functionality at both locations and hope to get both splash pads up and running again as soon as possible,” the district release reads. “We realize the splash pad closures may disrupt visitors’ plans and apologize for any inconvenience. People can still enjoy the playgrounds, fields and sports courts during this temporary closure of the splash pads."

Watch for updates online at saanich.ca/parks or District of Saanich social media channels.

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About the Author: Saanich News Staff

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