DISCUSSIONS have been taking place between key stakeholders to take over a council-owned paddling pool. 

Friends of Hamworthy Park chaired a meeting earlier this week after it was announced BCP Council were likely stop running it from next year. 

Finances at the authority have been closely looked at since the May election and senior personnel are working to fill a £44m budget gap for next year. 

One of the cuts suggested was to stop funding the three town’s paddling pools, including sites at Bournemouth’s Redhill Park, The Quomps in Christchurch and the pool in Hamworthy Park. 

Read more: Listed: BCP Council services set to be cut back in 2024

A spokesperson for Friends of Hamworthy Park said: “The meeting was really positive with everyone working collaboratively to find a solution that will see the paddling pool remain open next year and beyond.  

“As a result of the meeting, we're a lot more optimistic that a solution can be found. 

“We plan to meet again in January to progress the discussions and follow up on the actions that were generated during the meeting.” 

Representatives from the council, South Coast Adventures, Hamworthy councillors and the Lake Residents Association attended. 

If approved, cutting funding for the three paddling pools could save BCP Council £107,000 each year. 

A decision will be made in the new year.