Well look at PortAventura as a prime example. They recently expanded their waterpark, which was VERY small, and was packed. It all felt very cluttered, and compacted. I stayed 2 hours, then left. I didn't like it at all. I returned, this year with the new expansion. Have to say, I loved it. It was very busy, however it could now perform better, with more slides and people spread out across the waterpark. Although, it is warm out there, and waterparks are loved out in Spain, the UK is lacking good, maintained, good looking waterparks, and personally I only see Alton Towers as not being a dirty waterpark. Waterworld, is disgusting. It's all compacted; I hate everything about the place. Alton should learn from how PA are currently doing things with their waterpark. Although, they didn't theme the waterslides towers, they have a huge chance at really becoming a European Destination more, if they expand the waterpark. With the right marketing, which the current marketing director at Towers is doing brilliant after The Smiler's successful bringing, the waterpark could really turn into something big for the park. It would bring more people in for day trips to the park, which I remember back in 2004 I use to do with my family, not so much anymore as nothing is wanting me to go back, but they could then with that, advertise more about the hotels, bringing people back to stop the night. Then, you have the theme park as an extra.
It's a shame really, as it’s mainly down to Merlin that things don't progress. For example, in an interview, John Wardley said himself, there has to be some sort of key factor, like a gimmick. And waterpark gimmicks are very difficult, such as world’s firsts and things. I'd say, that’s the way it worth’s with the waterpark too.
It seems at the moment, all 'theme park' when really it should be that the Waterpark gets a new addition every 3 years, too.
Don't get me wrong, I love the fact the theme park is getting better and is being expanded with new additions, but at the same time it's horrible seeing the waterpark suffer.
I'd wish too, that they would stay open at least until 8pm daily. And 9.30pm during Scarefest and Fireworks. Once again, look at PortAventura as example, they recently had another white night, but for the waterpark instead, keeping it open until 1am. And that is OUTDOOR?! Alton's is mainly indoor, so what excuse is there? Certainly not the fact it gets cold. I do understand, even keeping the theme park or waterpark open for 30 minutes extra, costs a bomb, but they could test the waters with it? See how it goes by keeping it open later?