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Douglas Council consider 'aqua park' for Douglas Bay

The floating play area would be in place for Summer of 2023

Douglas Borough Council is to explore the economic and practical viability of operating an aqua park in Douglas Bay from the Summer of 2023.

An aqua park is essentially a floating play area for children and adults.

It's thought the plan is feasible in principle, but requires further investigation in respect of technical issues, and to establish a viable business plan.

The chairman of the Council's Environmental Services Committee, Falk Horning says it's hoped the plan will enhance the area, and that following the regeneration of the promenade, now is an excellent time to consider improvements to the beach.

As part of the proposals a number of improvements to Port Skillion Beach will also be considered.

It was acknowledged that the addition of an Aqua Park for Douglas beach would require it to be staffed during the summer, but that the presence of a lifeguard service could be the catalyst for Blue Flag accreditation for the beach. Any additional staffing costs could potentially be offset by admission revenue generated from the Aqua Park.

The issues will now be considered by the Council's Executive Committee, along with a plan to place the beach within the remit of the Regeneration and Community Committee to ensure it's managed in a similar vein to the Council's Green Flag parks and gardens.

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