THE paddling pools at Eastrop Park and Popley will be filled in July and August after a u-turn by Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council.

Bosses had decided not to fill the popular pools in Basingstoke in an attempt to reduce water consumption after the region was declared in drought earlier this year.

But after numerous complaints from residents, they will now be filled - but only from July.

Corporate director Karen Brimacombe said: “To conserve water we did not fill the paddling pools in the borough as we usually would last month.

“We received letters and telephone calls from a number of residents concerned that the paddling pools would be missed this summer. After considering if there was any other possible use for the areas, for example an artificial beach, it was decided to fill the pools during July and August.

“We believe this is a solution that meets the needs of our residents and visitors while also having helped to conserve water.”

If you missed the paddling pools during the recent spell of warm weather, contact the Gazette on 01256 337444 or email simon.moss@basingstokegazette.co.uk.