Council will not meet the Christmas completion deadline for the Long Gully Splash Park, but says plans can now move forward following an assessment of the recreation reserve.

Community well-being director Pauline Gordon expects the centre will open mid-next year. 

She said the delays were caused by unforeseen electricity concerns.

"The existing electricity supply to the site is insufficient, and will need to be upgraded," Ms Gordon said. 

“The city acknowledges it is disappointing the splash park will not be open in time for summer.

"But there are no planning guidelines for a splash park, so it was important to ensure the site could properly cater for the park’s design, construction and ongoing use."

Throughout the process, four sites within the recreation reserve were examined to determine the best and most economical site for development, with the preferred location being land adjacent to the car park and creek on Cuneen Street.

"The site is also big enough to allow for the construction of new infrastructure like footpaths to public transport and a footbridge across the creek to link the walking and cycling trail to the splash park," she said. 

The site underwent a planning report, geotechnical assessment for soil strength and contamination, and power supply and flood level restriction checks. A planning permit application has been submitted.

It is intended that the three design proposals will be shown to the community in December; the tender will be awarded before Christmas.

Ms Gordon said once the equipment was ordered,.construction of the splash park will take four months to complete.

“The community is encouraged to get involved in the development process by voting for their favourite design,” she said.