Three mini Alton Towers ?
Clarification by consultants about recent press article
It has recently been reported in the press* that there are plans for "three mini Alton Towers" in the Cotswold Water Park (CWP). This is not the case and we regret that people may now have a false impression of the long-term plans for the area.
The recent review of the CWP has set out a long-term strategic vision for the development of the area over the next 20 years which draws upon the inherent benefits of the environment and the water of the Park. In this respect, our plans do not envisage attractions in the CWP that will either individually or collectively attract millions of visitors. Rather, we are trying to create innovative attractions that compliment and respect the nature of the existing environment and local community, while also raising awareness of the CWP as a visitor destination. The profile we are seeking to build for the Park is based on the area's habitats and the wildlife it supports; the availability of different types of watersports and the range of leisure and recreation amenities available. This will be complimented by the planned integrated cycling and walking network, canals, marinas and wildlife viewing areas.
Within this context, the Plan identifies the scope for several additional attractions that would, if developed, bring visitors to the area. These include:
*a series of designated wildlife reserves, some of which will have dedicated visitor facilities;
*a water sports complex (which has long been planned for Cleveland Lakes) and a designated angling centre; and
*family-orientated leisure developments such as a farm attraction and an aqua-adventure zone consisting of shooting water, plunge pools and a sub-aqua diving pool.
These are simply concepts at this stage, but our plans highlight the clear window of opportunity that exists to realise long-held aspirations for the area to become an important destination for sports, leisure, recreation and the environment, but not forgetting that it is also an area in which 20,000 people live and work. To this end, our plans highlight that any developments should be able to demonstrate mutual benefits in terms for the environment, the residents and the economy.
We now invite you to read the consultation documents and welcome any comments that you may have on the Plan.
* Wiltshire and Gloucestershire Standard, Thursday January 31
