Plans to develop an inflatable aqua park and glamping pods at Barton’s Point Coastal Park on the Isle of Sheppey have been formally abandoned, following the release of an ecological report highlighting the site’s environmental sensitivity.
The project, which began in April 2022 as part of Swale Borough Council’s effort to boost tourism and revitalise the 40-acre former Ministry of Defence site, faced significant delays before ultimately being deemed unfeasible.
The council commissioned a year-long ecological survey, completed in April 2025 by specialist firm Bakerwell, as part of the due diligence required before any planning application could be submitted.
The £28,000 report concluded that Barton’s Point hosts a “rare habitat” with “exceptional biodiversity,” including a rich population of invertebrates, nesting birds, and potentially protected species such as great crested newts.
It noted the lake’s unique salinity supports rare aquatic and semi-aquatic species and described the ecosystem as “fragile” and “highly sensitive to disturbances.”
Martyn Cassell, Swale Council’s head of environment and leisure, told the Sheppey Area Committee meeting at Leysdown Village Hall that due to these findings, the aqua park and glamping development would not be pursued.
“It’s not going to be deliverable,” he said, citing the ecological concerns and anticipated planning obstacles. The unnamed company that had partnered with the council is now seeking alternative sites.
The development was initially expected to progress quickly after a preferred contractor was selected in March 2023 from 17 leisure-sector applicants. However, the requirement for an ecological assessment delayed the submission of any planning proposals.
Councillors and residents have since expressed frustration over the slow pace and ultimate collapse of the initiative.
John Nurden, a Minster parish councillor speaking in a personal capacity, told KentOnline:
“Most Islanders know that Barton’s Point has wonderful wildlife and has a national monument next to it. They would know a big planning issue would have been difficult and that an inflatable water park would never have been suitable for the park.”
Nurden also criticised the process for being conducted “in complete secrecy” and said the public could have flagged ecological concerns earlier.
“I am glad in a way the ecological report has been published, as we can now find out what we can do. But I am disappointed that Islanders and visitors to the Island have seen the last three years wasted.”
Other councillors echoed the sentiment. Cllr Dolley Wooster of Sheerness said the ecology report “should have come first rather than last,” and noted:
“We want the wildlife and the water facilities, but we need to get them both right so different groups can enjoy the park.” Area committee chair Cllr Elliott Jayes described the process as a “sorry saga,” and advocated for non-invasive recreational options like boating and pedalos to return.
The Bakerwell report warned that planning approval for a waterpark would likely face opposition from Natural England and Kent Wildlife Trust. It stated that the project presented “a very substantial challenge” for any commercial operator looking to intensify use of the site.
Although the larger redevelopment project has stalled, Swale Council confirmed that The Boathouse Café at the park, which reopened last summer under temporary management, will continue operating through the 2025 season.
For business owners in the outdoor hospitality sector, the Barton’s Point case highlights the importance of early environmental assessments when planning new developments.
Particularly in ecologically sensitive areas, obtaining regulatory approval can pose a significant risk to both the timeline and feasibility of projects. Stakeholders are advised to prioritise due diligence and community engagement from the outset to avoid costly setbacks.