The World of Water aquatic centre in West Sussex is to reopen next week as Watermeadow Aquatic & Plant Centre following an acquisition by a garden centre entrepreneur.
The site in Turners Hill, near Crawley, has been acquired by Benjamin Tate, executive director of the family-owned business Tates of Sussex, ensuring the long-established centre remains in local family ownership while continuing its specialist focus on aquatics, ponds and water gardening.
The branch originally became part of the World of Water Aquatic Centres group in 1989 when Annette and John Yeomans acquired and developed the three-acre site. Over the past 38 years, the business has grown into a specialist centre featuring mature landscaped show gardens, extensive indoor aquarium displays, outdoor pond facilities and water feature ideas.
Tate said: “Annette has done an amazing job building the business, and we are incredibly grateful to have been given the opportunity to take the reins. World of Water has earned a fantastic reputation over many years, and we’re committed to preserving everything that makes it so special.
“As Watermeadow Aquatic & Plant Centre, we’ll continue to be a destination for aquatic enthusiasts and water gardeners while investing in the site’s future. We see an opportunity to introduce complementary planting and gardening ranges that will enhance the customer experience whilst remaining true to the heritage of the business.
“We’re delighted that every member of the existing team will be staying with us, ensuring customers will continue to receive the same friendly faces and specialist knowledge they’ve come to trust.”
Yeomans added: “John and I came into the business through my brother, Peter Mercer, who founded World of Water. Together we opened the Turners Hill centre, which has now been operating for 38 years. Sadly, John passed away several years ago, and I have continued running the business ever since.
“I’m now ready to retire and hand over the business to a very professional and accomplished company, Tates. I’m delighted they will take it forward, continue caring for all of the livestock, and also look after my family – my wonderful staff. I wish them every success for the future.”
To facilitate the transition, World of Water Crawley will close on Tuesday August 11, before reopening on Wednesday August 12 as Watermeadow Aquatic & Plant Centre.
