THE RISE OF INFLATABLE WATER PLAY

Ahead of the new industry guidance led by RLSS UK, SwimNation looks at how inflatable water play is helping to drive participation, boost revenue, and transform pools into exciting activity spaces

Step into any swimming pool during an inflatable water play session, and the ear-splitting shouts and shrieks of delight from children and youngsters scrambling over the slippery structures instantly tell you how popular they are. But it’s not just kids who are fans; pool operators are increasingly seeing the benefits of including inflatables in their pool programming. RLSS UK is supporting the industry in the safe delivery of these experiences. The organisation is leading the development of new guidance on the safe operation of pool inflatables to help facilities manage risk effectively while continuing to offer safe, engaging and enjoyable aquatic activities.

Inflatables are becoming an increasingly attractive option for operators, says John Wilkes, Director at Airspace Solutions. “A pool inflatable will attract more users and generate much-needed income. They also provide a safe, structured environment for water-based fun, introduce new audiences to facilities, and help develop water confidence. A swim manager recently told me how she likes watching the smaller kids grow in confidence as the inflatable sessions go on.”

Public sessions, along with private hire and parties, can typically generate £25,000 a year for an average pool. With larger installations, operators can expect that to increase to £50,000 to £60,000 a year. But figures can vary considerably.

“We’ve seen small operators make up to £49,000 per annum from a £4,000 investment, and some larger sites make £120,000 to £130,000 per year. The business case is easy with venues often seeing a return on investment within a few months.”

MAKING INFLATABLES WORK

Providing the leisure sector with inflatable play for more than 35 years, Airspace Solutions works with a wide range of operators, from those responsible for multiple sites to independent operators. Wilkes says most operators face tough choices about what they offer, but there are usually sessions that aren’t as busy as they could be, creating opportunities for water play.

“Inflatable sessions don’t have to take over your entire pool; they can be designed to fit the space available. We’ve helped pools utilise a section within the pool for inflatable play. It’s about working with the operator to make it practical and safe,” says Wilkes.

He also stresses the importance of programming: “You don’t need to completely overhaul your timetable. Look at when and how you can fit in inflatable sessions to attract more users, while making sure the public knows they’re available. Accessibility and affordability are key.”

Operators often cite storage as a potential hurdle to offering inflatables, but when packed according to supplier instructions, this shouldn’t be an issue. When it comes to staffing, operators generally need three to four lifeguards per session.

Public sessions, along with private hire and parties, can typically generate £25,000 a year for an average pool

Places

Before making an investment, Wilkes urges operators to do their research and not to buy on a whim. “Arrange a site survey prior to investing. Make sure the unit suits your pool, fits your programme, can be effectively supervised by lifeguards and that staff are happy to use it. If it sits in a cupboard, it’s worthless.”

SAFETY CONSIDERATIONS

RLSS UK is bringing together operators, safety professionals, and industry partners to strengthen safety standards for pool inflatables. As part of this, it is leading a working group collaborating with CIMSPA, experienced operators, inflatable specialists and organisations including Airspace Solutions, an RLSS UK water safety partner, to update and strengthen industry guidance for the safe operation of pool inflatables.

The work reflects the evolving needs of the sector, incorporating new insights, safety considerations, and best practice approaches to support operators in delivering fun, high-quality, and safe aquatic experiences.

Anticipated to launch later this year, the guidance will provide clearer operational standards, improved risk management recommendations, and practical resources for facilities of all sizes.

Inflatable sessions provide a safe and fun activity for children to enjoy water

BENEFITS FOR OPERATORS

There’s no doubt that inflatables are fun, but most operators will tell you they are also a great way to build water confidence, helping youngsters to learn safety boundaries in a structured environment.

Jo Talbot, Commercial Director, RLSS UK, says: “Inflatable sessions provide a safe and fun activity for children to enjoy water. I’d much rather children enjoy inflatables in a pool than risk unsafe play in lakes or rivers.”

At a time when pool operators are dealing with rising costs, inflatable water play is a win-win for both operators and the public. As Wilkes says, “Every pool in the UK should be offering this. It’s fun, it’s safe, and it makes business sense.”

Inflatables in action

Birtley Community Aquatic Centre is a charitable trust formed to save the former Birtley Swim Centre from permanent closure following its closure in 2023 due to rising energy and operational costs. Now known as Birtley Community Pool, the not-for-profit centre has become a thriving community hub, attracting more than 16,000 visitors each month, including around 6,500 children.

To enhance its appeal and create additional income streams, the trust invested in an Atlantis modular aqua inflatable system. “Being a new charitable trust, it was vital that the swimming pool inflatable would generate attendances, income and be energy efficient,” says Lewis Herbertson, Senior Operations Manager at Birtley Community Aquatic Centre.

The modular design of the Atlantis system allows the team to adapt the layout to suit different sessions and customer needs. Individual modules can be repositioned, and additional units can be purchased over time as demand grows. Energy efficiency was also a key factor in the decision, says Herbertson.

“The sealed design of the unit ensures energy efficiency. Once inflated, they support the entire session without requiring additional energy. Given the high programming usage, it was critical that we were not creating extra demands on energy usage.”

Penlan Leisure Centre in Swansea has a long-standing partnership with Airspace Solutions. The Aquarun inflatable has become a key attraction, providing a value-for-money leisure activity for local residents. Offering a variety of obstacles and challenges, the inflatable obstacle course supports open swim sessions and birthday parties. Demand is high with the centre running six party slots every weekend at £215 each.

“The fun variation of activities keeps bringing children back again and again,” says Jim Kelly, Regional Director for Freedom Leisure, which operates the site. The centre also rotates an additional Aquarun to keep the offer fresh and exciting. The impact of the inflatables extends beyond the pool, contributing to driving significant secondary spending in the café.