PLANS dating back almost 40 years to transform the eastern edge of the Cotswold Water Park into a major tourist attraction have resurfaced.

The idea for a recreational facility around the eastern lakes was initially raised in the 1960s but since then nothing has happened.

Meanwhile the western side has seen major investment and development with projects such as the Gateway Centre and Cleveland Lakes.

The resurrection of the plans has been warmly received by the town councils in nearby Lechlade and Fairford, who had previously voiced concern at the discrepancy between development in the east and west sides of the Water Park.

Michael Cawsey, mayor of Lechlade, explained the eastern side currently felt like the poor relation and would welcome any new projects.

"We have nothing on our side," he said. "But we would like to see something, we would welcome some development. The more public access the better, I think it will be an asset to the town."

Simon Pickering, director of conservation and restoration at CWPS, was confident the current development plans were realistic.

He said: "It's got momentum and with appropriate support it will happen but it will require a lot of support and investment.

"This is an opportunity to work with Fairford and Lechlade, unlike with other areas of the Water Park which we inherited. We have the opportunity to consult so all the communities will understand and support it."

Initial proposals to develop Thornhill Park and nearby Claydon Pike were first made back in 1969.

Now as part of the 2000 to 2006 strategy the Cotswold Water Park Joint Committee are reviving plans in the eastern section of the Water Park.

The scheme is described in the strategy as Project Five. Its aims are to 'provide a country park, or similar facility, giving easy access for the general public to casual countryside recreation and activities in the eastern section of the Cotswold Water Park'.

Among the ideas being considered for the Claydon Pike development are:

- visitor facilities including a cafe and restaurant

- an information centre

- indoor and outdoor play areas

- a sculpture trail around Lake 125

- an archaeological centre/ open air museum

- environmental education facilities

A team from Cotswold Water Park Society (CWPS) is currently carrying out a detailed study which will gauge how realistic the project is in terms of investment and running costs.

Simon Pickering explained: "It is assumed the society will run this country park but before we rush into anything we are doing an initial feasibility study using our own resources.

"We want to check with the parishes that it is still something they want. There is support and enthusiasm for it but the report will give us somewhere to start."