As temperatures soar Gorleston's new splash park can't open soon enough for the town's youngsters.

Eastern Daily Press: The splash pad at Gorleston is taking shape Photo: Liz CoatesThe splash pad at Gorleston is taking shape Photo: Liz Coates (Image: Archant)

For the moment all they can do is look longingly at the structure taking shape on the lower prom - and it looks exactly like the artist's impressions.

Tantalising glimpses of tipping buckets and apparatus shaped like sails are giving them a taste of things to come.

Where for decades children enjoyed a concrete paddling pool, variously painted depending on council budgets that year, there are water jets, sprays and fountains springing up.

And the wait is nearly over.

Eastern Daily Press: The splash pad at Gorleston is taking shape Photo: Liz CoatesThe splash pad at Gorleston is taking shape Photo: Liz Coates (Image: Archant)

Council officials said this week the splash pad would be opening in 'early August' and that all work was on track and to schedule.On the day a gaggle of young guests will try out the facilities for the first time before all and sundry are allowed to use the wet-play attraction.

Unlike the old pool - the scene of many a slip - the new area will have a soft rubber matting and benches for parents to watch their children.

The council is expected to confirm the opening date by August 6.