CHILDREN'S paddling pools are a hot topic in Bracknell after a parent was banned from using one last week.

Silva Homes has explained why paddling pools are not allowed in communal areas in Bracknell after an online petition criticised the rule.

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Lee Baker wants to rule to be changed after he noticed a sticker was placed on his children's paddling pool with a 24 hours notice to take it down.

Dasos Christou, executive director (customer relations) at Silva Homes, explained that the swimming pool could cause a "serious accident" because it was left "unattended".

He said: “Health and safety concerns were raised around the risk of leaving paddling pools unattended in communal areas that are used by lots of people. The pool that was given a 24-hour removal notice was unattended when we found it, which shows that this does happen.

“There were also reports of paddling pools being filled by carrying water down the stairs in buckets, or by connecting hoses to taps and dangling them over balconies. These actions could cause serious accidents – and if the hose’s connection to the tap is loose, it could cause flooding in the home below, as has already happened to one of our customers multiple times.

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“Finally, the communal areas should benefit all who live there. We know that paddling pools are fun for children, but not everyone is happy with the idea of kids playing in a pool outside their home, so we have to consider them too.”

Mr Baker put a pool out for his children to cool down in the hot weather due to having no garden. He said: "I called them to get told it’s to do with there insurance. I asked why and got told if someone was to fall in it and drown they would be liable as it’s on there land. After receiving a call back from them I get told we are not allowed anything in there communal areas!

"I explained that it seem unfair considering rent is paid council tax is paid and service charges are payed just like anyone else! But because we live in a flat we get penalised. Totally 100% not fair. Also it’s not like the pool is out all year!"