Plans have been submitted for an “inflatable aqua park” and an observation deck for cold water swimming at Kent’s largest shopping centre.
Hangloose Adventure, which already runs various adrenaline-fuelled attractions at Bluewater in Greenhithe, is behind the latest proposals.
Their application to Dartford council seeks permission for a “cold water swimming” route for no more than 30 people at a time, marked by buoys with exit and entry points, to run from 8am.
The leisure company also wants to construct a floating observation deck built on the lake in the style of existing structures with capacity for 153 people.
Lake two at Bluewater, where the structures are earmarked to be built, already hosts the country’s fastest and longest zipwire which is one of Hangloose’s most popular attractions.
The “Summer Aqua Park” is planned to be an inflatable obstacle course for up to 65 people at a time which would operate between May 1 and November 5 and feature “towering water slides” and “tricky obstacle courses”, as well as including a disabled lift, access ramps and steps.
The latest plans, which were first mooted last year and billed as ideal for friends and families, come after previous proposals by a different company for an inflatable aqua park at Bluewater were scrapped in the face of stiff opposition from residents and local politicians.
In 2021, plans were mooted by Aqua Parcs for a similar seasonal based attraction at another part of the Greenhithe destination.
However, it was met by a petition of more than 8000 people calling for it to be ditched as it would have encroached on the Bluewater Nature Trail.
In Hangloose’s new application, at a different location in the complex, they stress that “crucially, the lake does not form part of the Bluewater Nature Trail” and floating reed beds will introduce more wildlife to the lake.
The inflatable obstacle course will allow no more than 65 participants at a time per hour, they add, with lifeguard-trained staff present and a staffed, motorised safety craft moored at the observation deck.
Buoyancy aids will be mandatory, as will wetsuits if the temperature outside is less than 12 degrees.
The “cold water swimming” will be limited to over-18s only, and “is aimed at enthusiasts and adults looking to keep fit or train for an event”.
They add that the observation deck will “be used for general seating, courses, yoga and open air leisure,” as well as for serving drinks and snacks.
Hangloose write that it is “very unlikely to reach” its maximum capacity of 153 people standing, and “it offers a panoramic view of almost all existing activities”.
Brian Phelps, managing director at Hangloose Adventure, said: “We think this would be a great addition to Bluewater, we sought pre-application advice last year and having made several changes submitted a full application earlier in the year.
“It’s a lovely spot away from the nature trail, tucked away in the corner of the cliff and about five metres below the road level so very sheltered.
“It has exceptionally clear water as most of it filters through the rock, we are keen to maintain this lovely site and will increase ecology of the development by 10% as required by Biodiversity Net Gain legislation.
“We hope to open later in the summer and will be offering free swims to locals,” he added.
Dartford council leader Jeremy Kite (Con) has invited people to have their say on the plans ahead of a decision by the local authority.
He said: “I know the Bluewater natural area is greatly valued by the local community as well as visiting shoppers.
“Bluewater deserves huge credit for creating so much green space but it’s right that any future plans they have are put to the public for comment.
“I hope people will take time to share their views.”
At the time of writing just two responses have been lodged with Dartford council regarding the proposals, one against and another in favour.
In support, a resident of Fiddlers Close, Greenhithe wrote: “In support of this idea, especially after losing the equivalent on the garden city side.
“We need more creative outside activities, especially for the younger generation who sit on technology all day.”
But not everyone is convinced with another resident from Hasted Close, also in Greenhithe, voicing concerns over the alleged impact on nature and noise.
They said: “This area has been created as a nature reserve, a safe place for the many birds and animals etc that live there.
“This company has destroyed so many trees in the name of entertaining kids with overpriced activities, and now they want to add this monstrocity to a picturesque lake where the resident swans take their babies when foxes etc are around.”
To see more planning applications and other public notices for your area, click here.
The sprawling shopping centre, which employs thousands, opened in 1999, after five years of construction at the former quarry run by Blue Circle.
To read more about the history of Bluewater shopping centre and how it has changed over time, including its metamorphosis to become an entertainment and leisure-based venue, click here.
It is not yet known when Dartford council will determine the application but a decision is expected no later than August 15.
