Port's Marine Splash re-opens '“ with fee

But for the first time the facility cost £2 per child for every two hours, instead of being free as it was last year.

Controversial plans by Wyre Council to charge people to use the seafront water facility were challenged by Coun Ruth Duffy, the Wyre Labour leader, last week.

But Coun Duffy’s challenge to halt the charges was out-voted by Conservative councillors at a meeting of Wyre’s Overview and Scrutiny Committee.

Coun Duffy, who represents Fleetwood’s Mount ward said: “I knew it would be difficult but it was worth challenging for the sake of Fleetwood residents who don’t want this charge.

“For people who don’t have a lot of money and who have more than one child, it will make a lot of difference.”

Fleetwood Community Association also claim they were told that charges would never be brought for the amenity, which is part of the £1.5m Five For Fleetwood scheme and which replaced the old paddling pool.

However, Wyre Council has defended the charge and says the facility is an excellent attraction for Fleetwood.

Councillor Lynne Bowen, Cabinet member for leisure at Wyre Council, said: “Fleetwood has a promenade to be proud of with an impressive choice of new and traditional attractions for all ages to enjoy.

“Alongside Marine Splash, there’s a modern sunken skate bowl, an all-inclusive play area with facilities for children with disabilities, beautifully landscaped gardens at Marine Hall and Euston Gardens and of course the splendid beach which is patrolled by lifeguards.”

Marine Splash will be open at weekends from June 4 and school holidays until September 5, weather permitting.

There will be two, two hour play sessions starting at 12 noon and 2.30pm at a cost of £2 per child (children aged three and under go free).

Numbers using the facility are limited to 100 paying children per session and they will be admitted on a first come first served basis.