
A controversial Aqua Park based at Cosmeston Lakes Country Park welcomed 10,000 visitors during its two-month trial.
Aqua Park Group has praised the trial, which ended on 15th September, saying that it helped to create 30 seasonal jobs for residents and young people, providing lifeguard training for 12 new recruits, who achieved professionally recognised qualifications.
The inflatable water park opened in May, operating on the Eastern Lake until mid-September, but its installation was challenged throughout by the Vale Action Group.
Despite that, Aqua Park Group say its installation helped to increase footfall and spending across the park, proving popular with schools and community groups, with the site attracting over 1,200 students from 27 local schools, clubs and educational organisations.
As the park's summer trial concluded in September, the Penarth Civic Society became the latest group to criticise the Aqua Park, after they observed a fall in the bird population at the Country park.
The Aqua Park also helped raise nearly £1,000 for the Royal Life Saving Society UK, with the funds going to support water safety education initiatives for school-aged children across the Vale of Glamorgan.
Connor James, Marketing Manager at Cosmeston Lakes Aqua Park, said: “We’re really pleased with how the summer trial has gone and thanks to the families, schools and organisations who have visited us for their support.
“We’d like to thank the Vale of Glamorgan Council for the opportunity to introduce this beautiful park and lake to so many new visitors who had never been to Cosmeston before coming to the Aqua Park. It’s been great to see so many people enjoying the water and making the most of what Cosmeston has to offer as a family fun day out.
Whilst the trial has concluded, the future of Aqua Park at Cosmeston Lakes Country Park is unclear.