The owner of an inflatable water park at Erieau Beach is now looking at C.M. Wilson Conservation Area as a backup spot in case provincial and possibly federal approvals don't come through in time to open next month.
During a brief meeting in Erieau Tuesday evening, Chatham-Kent Ward 2 Councillor Ryan Doyle and Aqua City owner/operator Sam Tudorica discussed a couple of new updates about the proposed park.
Tudorica said there is a backup in place if the Ministry of Natural Resources does not approve Erieau has a suitable location.
Councillor Doyle said water testing is underway at C.M. Wilson to determine if the area is feasible. The C.M. Wilson proposal still needs approval from the Lower Thames Valley Conservation Authority.
The water park already had Ministry approvals when it made an unsuccessful pitch for Colchester Beach in Essex County a few weeks ago, but it's unclear if the park needs a new approval because it's in a different spot on Lake Erie or if the previous approval covers the entire shoreline.
The update follows concerns from residents and business owners regarding a number of potential issues surrounding the installation of the park.
Tudorica said the park at Erieau Beach must be set up between 100-150 feet off shore, have an access point, and sit on top of water that is at least nine feet deep, making the area near the pier, the most desired spot.
The park's inflatable components, which are currently being shipped from China, Tudorica said, are expected to arrive by the second week of June. Once it arrives and all permits and approvals are made, she said set up should only take several days keeping on track with Aqua City's and the municipality's previously announced anticipated opening date of sometime during the middle or end of next month.
Tudorica explained the water park's capacity will be much smaller than other inflatable water parks in the province, such as the one in Barrie. She said the park slated to open next month will have a maximum capacity of 60 people at a time, with four life guards expected to be on duty during its operational hours of 11 a.m. and 7 p.m.
Tudorica said the park will only operate weather permitting. Any inclement weather warnings, or strong waves pose as a safety issue and will result in the water park shutting down until the threat(s) clear. Patrons will also be required to sign a waiver ahead of time, with youth between the ages of 10-17 expected to have a waiver signed by a parent or guardian.
As far as security goes, Tudorica mentioned there are talks to have security in the area at night, with plans to install video security as well.