**Cosmeston Lake Protesters Unite in Force Against Planned Aqua Park**
In a striking display of unity and environmental concern, hundreds of residents and nature enthusiasts formed a human chain around Cosmeston Lake in Penarth on Saturday morning, expressing strong opposition to the proposed installation of an inflatable aqua park this summer. The demonstration, marked by colourful banners and passionate speech, sought to highlight the deep unease many felt about the project’s potential impact on wildlife and the tranquility of the much–loved local nature reserve.
The planned aqua park, which would see the Cardiff Bay Aqua Park relocated to the eastern lake at Cosmeston Country Park for an initial eight–week trial, has fuelled considerable local debate since its announcement in May. The park, covering over 100 acres of diverse habitats—including those supporting the critically endangered water vole—has long been recognised as a haven for wildlife and a peaceful escape for visitors. A significant portion of the site is also designated a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI), adding to campaigners’ concerns about any development that could compromise the area’s ecological integrity.
Protesters, many of whom had travelled by bicycle or on foot to avoid adding to local congestion, stressed the importance of preserving both the environment and the character of Cosmeston. Residents Mark and Amanda Rosomon, who have lived in Penarth for over three decades, explained, “Cosmeston is a sanctuary for so many. The idea of replacing decades of conservation with a commercial venture for fleeting financial gain is distressing. The park belongs to the people and should remain a space for quiet enjoyment.”
Parking and traffic also emerged as central worries for the group. With limited infrastructure already causing headaches for local people, the prospect of increased visitors driven by the aqua park was met with apprehension. “We’re already struggling with congestion and parking issues,” noted Amanda Rosomon. “Bringing in more outsiders without enhancing infrastructure isn’t sustainable.”
Among the banners held aloft during the protest were creative representations of local wildlife—fish, ducks, and a giant sign reading “Stop the aqua park.” Longtime Cosmeston visitor Elsie Phillips described the plans as “a tragedy for the wildlife,” voicing fears about the disruption to nesting and the loss of the park’s gentle, calming atmosphere. Fellow campaigner Kathie Thomas, from nearby Barry, echoed this, highlighting her frustration at what she characterised as council intransigence: “They don’t seem to listen, and it feels like they are chasing money rather than caring for nature.”
Members of the group Barry Action for Nature emphasised that while they did not oppose aqua parks overall, they believed Cosmeston’s status as a country park and conservation area made it the wrong choice for such a development. Claire Curtis noted, “This is a place for wildlife and quiet reflection. We understand council financial pressures, but protecting nature should come first here.” Her colleague, Robert Curtis, added, “The peace and biodiversity the park offers cannot simply be replaced elsewhere. It’s what makes Cosmeston special.”
The site’s SSSI status was another bone of contention. Local resident Anne Turnbull pointed out that “temporary” projects like the aqua park might circumvent SSSI restrictions, but did not sit easily with many conservation principles. “Allowing a supposedly non–permanent structure on an SSSI sets a worrying precedent. They have found a loophole, but it threatens the integrity of protected sites,” she warned.
Nature writer Marc Harris, who attended the protest following the popularity of his published wildlife photographs from Cosmeston, addressed the crowds by reading from his book. “Cosmeston is a jewel in the region’s natural crown,” he said. “Bringing an aqua park here threatens its delicate ecosystems, especially the rare water voles. I hope the council reconsiders for the sake of future generations.”
Meanwhile, the Vale of Glamorgan Council and Aqua Park Cardiff maintain that the initiative is part of a broader push for sustainable tourism. Cllr Bronwen Brooks, council deputy leader, recently commented, “The new aqua park is intended to offer varied leisure activities and support the council’s re-wilding and conservation ambitions. Consultation has indicated an appetite—especially among younger people—for such attractions.”
Representatives from Aqua Park Cardiff described the venture as an exciting addition aimed at offering supervised fun and outdoor activity for families. Founder Connor James highlighted, “We look forward to welcoming visitors and know the benefits of active experiences for both mental and physical wellbeing.”
As both sides present their arguments, the protest at Cosmeston Lake serves as a powerful reminder of the fervent community and environmental debate such projects can generate. The future of the planned aqua park—and its wider implications for conservation and local recreation—remains to be seen, with demonstrators vowing to continue their campaign in defence of the park’s natural legacy.