Dunes Splash World in Southport is set to open to the public this weekend.

The £8.5 water park complex will feature slides, rides, lazy river rapids, a spa bath and children’s play areas set around a 25-metre main pool and learner pool, in addition to training and conferencing facilities.

Cllr Lord Ronnie Fearn, Sefton Council’s cabinet member for leisure and tourism, said: “Splash World is set to be a major tourist attraction with exciting slides and rides, plus a bubble pool, to keep the whole family entertained. The facility is expected to attract a quarter of a million visitors in its first year, giving a real tourism boost.”

The new centre – designed by Bradford architects Graham Lambert Robinson – comprises part of the neighbouring Dunes Leisure Centre, which features a fitness suite, badminton court, sports hall, studio and poolside café. Details: www.splashworldsouthport.com