Wiltshire Council 'Share Residents Concerns' over River Park Play Park Flooding

Tuesday, 11 November 2025 14:30

Wiltshire Council, a partner on the River Park Project, says it understands and shares the concerns of residents over the flooding of the brand-new play park near Ashley Road.

The park, which was only opened in August, is very popular, with it being bustling since its opening. Its entrance was partially underwater, with a couple of inches of water on the pathway and hard-standing areas at the only open entrance to the park.

Since then, a pump has been installed to clear some of the water, and more remedial work will be carried out to prevent future flooding.

The park has been installed as part of the River Park Project, which is transforming central Salisbury to reduce flood risk, enhance biodiversity, and improve community amenity. The Salisbury River Park project is a collaboration between the Environment Agency, Wiltshire Council and Salisbury City Council, and is constructed by Kier.

Cllr Helen Belcher, Cabinet Member for Regeneration, said, “We understand and share the concerns raised by residents regarding the flooding at the Salisbury River Park play area. While Wiltshire Council is not the lead delivery partner for this aspect of the project, we remain committed to working collaboratively with the Environment Agency and Salisbury City Council to ensure the scheme delivers long-term benefits for Salisbury.

“Salisbury River Park is a transformational project designed to improve flood resilience, enhance biodiversity, and create new public spaces for the community. We recognise that delays and issues such as flooding are frustrating, and we continue to engage with the Environment Agency and other partners to ensure these are addressed as quickly as possible.

“Wiltshire Council will continue to support efforts to bring the project to completion as soon as possible.”