A popular seaside splash park is reopening this weekend, but it's no longer free to use and families can't book in advance.
In previous years families have flocked to use the Splash zone, which is housed in the former disused paddling pool area in Lytham St Annes' Promenade Gardens.
Parents loved the fact they could book online for a free hour-long session for their children, knowing they'd have guaranteed access on arrival.
But now Fylde Council has introduced a fee to use the facility and visitors can't book in advance, so run the risk of turning up to find the place full.
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Announcing Saturday's opening on its Facebook page on Friday evening, the council said: "Splash park St Annes is set to officially reopen tomorrow! Entry is £1 per child per hour, pay on the door!"
But it wasn't long until concerns were shared.
"From the council website it seems as if you have to go in person to book a slot?" said one. "So if you turn up and it's full your children will be very upset."
Others complained on the Splash Facebook page, with one saying: "So basically you need to queue up at 10am to book a space that day. Not helpful if you're driving an hour to get there and don't want to go in the splash park until after lunch. This needs a rethink."
Another parent, who's previously booked spaces before driving there from Trafford, told the Manchester Evening News: "We've been before and it was great knowing you had a session booked as you didn't have to panic about getting there and there being no room.
"We also loved the fact it was free, so it's a bit annoying to introduce a fee when families are struggling so much. I wouldn't mind the fee if you could guarantee a slot."
Aimed at children aged three to 12, Splash opened in 2019 and offers a range of features including spray loops, water sprays, bucket drops, water domes and a small section for paddling.
The council has issued a statement on its website about the fee introduction.
It says: "The fee of £1 was chosen to ensure that the facility is affordable to all, with similar private beach activities charging significantly higher rates and pricing many visitors out. Please pay on arrival by card – please note no cash is taken. The £1 payment only applies to the children using the facility; there is no charge for accompanying adults.
"The revenue from the small charge will contribute towards the ongoing costs of operating the Splash Park and ensuring its continued sustainability.
"The facility has a restricted capacity and could get booked quickly. The health and safety of our customers and staff is our number one priority."
Splash opens from April 15 and will offer five sessions a day seven days a week - starting at 10am, 11.15am, 12.30pm, 1.45pm and 3pm.
Booking is essential and must be done in person via a card payment for a same-day session. No cash is taken and online booking is currently not available.
For more details, visit the council website, or check the Splash Facebook page for updates.
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