Land in the vicinity of Debdale Park was acquired in the 1820's by the local Water Company and the construction of the first of two reservoirs began. The City Council purchased the Water Company's land in 1851 and acquired further land on the south side of one of the reservoirs in 1874 and 1875, initially to safeguard the supply of water to residents of the area. After the Great War of 1914-1918, this area was allocated for recreational use and work was undertaken to transform this area of land into a formal Park. Use of the reservoirs as a water supply for the City lasted until discontinued in 1963.
There is also an outdoor centre with various activities , The centre is open every Saturday from 9am until 4pm - all year round.