A newly constructed leisure complex in Newport has been christened Splash, igniting discussion among local residents regarding its designation, amenities and architectural approach.
The facility, situated along the Usk Way waterfront, will feature dual swimming pools, a gentle river attraction, a fitness centre, group exercise sessions and a cafe.
The public shared their reactions shortly after the title was unveiled on Thursday, October 8.
Responses ranged from criticism of the selection to appreciation for the financial commitment being made to the project.
One resident, Janine Ley, observed that the chosen name seemed rather straightforward, suggesting the council must have held extensive discussions and consumed considerable refreshments during the decision-making process.
Julia Marie remarked that the moniker appeared to require minimal creative effort.
Jake Williams noted that selecting the name must have consumed considerable time.
Gillian Taylor expressed that residents simply required a swimming pool and could have adopted a more adventurous title such as the baths.
Several alternative designations were put forward by readers.
Bernard Williams advocated for retaining Newport Leisure Centre, while also proposing that the facility should honour the city’s heritage by referencing the Chartist movement and a mural that was previously removed.
Ange Mcg suggested Lady Rhondda as a potential namesake.
David Arandjelovic advanced Riverside Diamond Leisure Centre as another option.
Uncertainty persisted regarding whether the new establishment would substitute amenities previously available at the former Newport Centre, which ceased operations in 2023.
Ricky Wright highlighted that one of the former venue’s standout features was its arena, which he described as Wales’s premier facility for boxing and mixed martial arts events, additionally hosting notable musical performances by acts including Kasabian.
Kate Ryan inquired about the presence of an event space and the provision for snooker facilities.
Parking arrangements generated additional concern among respondents, with Paul Hooper flagging that visitors might need to travel from adjacent parking areas, while Derek Scantlebury questioned the location of dedicated car parking.
Jonathan Belcher, who identified himself as a Newport Live member, raised queries about the dimensions of the proposed gymnasium and whether free weight equipment would be available.
The structure’s appearance also divided opinion among commenters.
Samantha White expressed satisfaction that children would have access to a swimming facility.
Sue Screen indicated anticipation for using the amenities.
Councillor Mark Spencer, portfolio holder for communities and sport, explained that the designation captured the centre’s programme of activities and its waterside setting.
Councillor Spencer noted that the name encapsulated what the centre would provide, its geographic position and the significant impact it would have on residents and visitors following its inauguration.
External sources will fund in excess of 55 percent of the project’s total expenditure, comprising support from both Welsh and UK governmental bodies.
The centre is projected to rank among the United Kingdom’s inaugural net-zero leisure facilities of comparable scale and will operate powered exclusively by renewable electricity.
A firm opening date remains to be announced.