Article
New beach attraction with ‘Ocean Giant’ centrepiece officially opens
19 February 2025
A NEW ADVENTURE playground with a zip wire and spectacular play tower has been officially opened at Aberavon Beach.
The “destination” playground has been created partly out of recycled ocean waste and features an 8.9-metre high play tower known as the ‘Ocean Giant’ along with climbing walls and a thrilling tube slide.
It also boasts a zip wire, swings, an overhead ladder, a carousel and other play equipment.
The development is part of Neath Port Talbot Council's £4.25m 'green up and clean up' fund aimed at enhancing local communities and improving public spaces.
Council Leader Cllr Hunt said: “This eye-catching new development will enhance the beach area by introducing a sustainable, adventure-based attraction that promotes recreation and environmental awareness.”
Cllr Jones added: “The combination of cutting-edge play equipment and a commitment to sustainability makes this project an important addition to Neath Port Talbot’s growing portfolio of green initiatives.”
Kompan, a global leader in outdoor play and fitness site design, constructed the new adventure playground.
A key feature of the attraction has been incorporating ocean waste (such as outworn fishing nets and marine rope) into the construction of various play elements, demonstrating the potential of repurposing materials that might otherwise contribute to marine pollution.
The adventure playground is expected to attract significant attention to the wider seafront area, becoming a focal point for beachgoers, families, and tourists.
Earlier this month, Neath Port Talbot Council’s Cabinet agreed a new ‘masterplan’ for the seafront suggesting wellness gardens, saunas and hot tubs, the expansion of food options, a new dunes park and provision of extra parking and changing facilities.
These were just some of the suggestions contained in the masterplan which will create a cohesive strategy and ‘conceptual plan’ for the future direction of the popular seafront.