Plans for an aqua park at Cosmeston Lake in Penarth have sparked controversy as over 2,000 people oppose the proposal. This debate stems from the decision to not reopen Aqua Park Cardiff this summer in Cardiff Bay due to concerns over water quality. The Vale of Glamorgan Council was expected to sign a licence agreement with Aqua Park on April 1, 2025, to run a pilot at the eastern side of Cosmeston Lake from May to September 2025. However, local residents have expressed apprehension regarding the potential impact on the lake’s ecosystems and wildlife.
Rachel Morgan, founder of a Change.org petition against the aqua park, highlighted the safety concerns and the threat the park poses to the diverse ecosystems within Cosmeston Lake Country Park. The area is home to various wildlife species and holds designation as Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI), protecting it from potential harm. The introduction of an aqua park could disrupt these sensitive habitats, including endangering species like water voles and the starry stonewort plant.
While water-based leisure activities have been carried out on the lake in the past, the proposal to relocate the aqua park has raised fears among residents. Campaigners, like Kevin Calnan and Max Wallis, are advocating against the park’s placement, citing concerns about water quality, hidden hazards, and potential risks to public safety. The environmental impact of such a development on the lake’s delicate balance is also a point of contention.
During a recent Environment and Regeneration Scrutiny Committee meeting, the council’s director of place, Marcus Goldsworthy, addressed the concerns around water quality and efforts to ensure the safety of proposed activities. He highlighted that water testing is regularly conducted at Cosmeston Lake and assured that measures would be taken to safeguard ecologically important areas from any adverse effects. The council emphasised the need for comprehensive testing and conservation efforts to prevent health risks and protect biodiversity.
The council’s approach to balancing leisure amenities with nature conservation has been met with resistance from local residents seeking a public consultation before finalising the aqua park plans. Their plea for transparency and community involvement underscores the importance of considering public opinion and ecological sustainability in any decision-making process. The council’s commitment to evaluating the potential impact on the environment and wildlife reflects a growing awareness of the need for responsible development practices.
Moving forward, the fate of the aqua park at Cosmeston Lake remains uncertain pending further deliberation by the Vale of Glamorgan Council. The ongoing discussions between stakeholders, residents, and authorities underscore the delicate balance between recreational opportunities and environmental preservation. As the debate continues, the voices of concerned citizens advocating for conscientious decision-making and ecological stewardship will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of Cosmeston Lake and its surrounding areas.