PLANS to create a ‘flagship’ waterpark in Rhyl have been given the go-ahead.

Denbighshire County Council’s planning committee has approved proposals for the centre on the promenade, which will feature square water space, with indoor and outdoor flume rides

It will also boast children’s water play frame and slides, a double-height children’s play activity zone, climbing facilities, party rooms, reception, sales areas, an outside ‘splash pool’, two wet ‘splash pads’, sun lounger areas and cafe terraces.

There will be beach style’ cabanas’ in the outdoor splash zone as well as a bar and terrace to cater for evening trade.

Rhyl Town Council and the Welsh Government are providing financial support for the development, which will create 60 new jobs and is expected to attract 350,000 additional visitors to the town every year.

Work will begin on site in September, with the centre due to open in early 2019.

Mayor of Rhyl Cllr Alan James said: “The water park development promises to bring a range of benefits to Rhyl, increasing visitor spend and establishing the town as a tourism destination.

“With planning permission secured, work can now start on developing what will be an amazing facility for local people and future visitors.

“The winds of change are blowing and the patience of the people of Rhyl will be rewarded with a facility we can all be proud of, one that puts our town firmly on the map.” The town’s skatepark is to be relocated to make room for the waterpark.

Denbighshire Council says it will consult with young people to co-design the skatepark, with the new facility offering new, more attractive design features.

The promenade paddling pool will be replaced by an outdoor ‘splash pad’ and sun terrace as part of the redevelopment.