A limit of 270 people will be allowed to book the Cassiobury Park paddling pools under the new booking system.

On Monday (August 9) a new booking system launched for people visiting the paddling and splash pools at the park.

Earlier this summer, there were some complaints from parents of long waiting times - and the council mentioned the idea of a new booking system.

Now it has been revealed that 270 people will be allowed at one time, including parents and guardians.

Every two hours the paddling pools will be deep cleaned for 30 minutes by staff.

To pre-book, visitors must have an Everyone Active account and bookings can be made through the app or the website.

To book through the app, here is a step-by -step:

1. Download the Everyone Active App

2. Select your home centre. This can be done by selecting the three lines at the top left-hand side of the screen. Select “My Clubs” and click the ‘+’ in the top right-hand corner to search for ‘Cassiobury Park Paddling Pools’

3. Click the icon “Courses & Lessons”.

4. Choose the time you wish to book your session for

5. When the option to book is selected, you will be prompted to login if you haven’t already

6. If you do not know your login credentials, please select ‘forgotten my password’

7. Review your booking details and tap the green “BOOK” button to confirm your reservation

People are encouraged to not book back-to-back slots, otherwise children and families wanting to use the facility might not be accommodated.

If you book back-to-back sessions, you will be required to exit upon the ‘time up’ whistle and will be refused entry on to the next session.

The splash park reopened in March and has attracted large crowds - particularly during hot, sunny weather.

The new system is hoped to control the crowds at the pools.

Elected Mayor of Watford, Peter Taylor said: “We recognise how important parks are for people’s daily exercise and general wellbeing, including the ever-popular paddling pools in Cassiobury Park. Listening to resident’s feedback over the last few months regarding a booking system, I’m glad we now have this facility in place to manage the splash park during peak times, and to help ensure that everyone in the community has equal opportunity to visit the pools.

“If you’re planning to visit over the next few months, be sure to check whether to book in advance, especially if visiting at weekends or during the holidays.”