WORK on the new South Barrule Adventure Park has swung into action.
A team of volunteers, who are not in education, employment or training (NEETS), have been erecting mobile platforms as the work forges ahead.
As planning permission for the site has yet to be granted, project ;leader Steve Salter explained that none of the platforms are permanent and could easily be dismantled.
‘But I would be disappointed if full approval were not granted given the level of positive feedback we have received from the public,’ he said.
The Health and Safety Inspectorate has already paid a site visit and granted its approval.
Fomer UNITE Union representative Mr Salter said: ‘I have been especially happy to see a huge change in the attitude of the volunteers. They have gelled as a team and are really, really motivated.
‘When we open full-time some of these guys will be getting jobs, it would be brilliant to see them come off benefits’
The willing team have started thinking ahead and tasks are being done without prompting.
Steve has to fill three full-time and six full-time seasonal positions before the adventure course opens at Easter next year.
They have been on-site two days a week for nearly two months and he is talking to the Department of Economic Development (DED) about a structured work placement training package.
The package will cover areas such as construction, landscaping, site clearance, joinery skills, first aid and classroom work.
The ‘Ape-Mann Adventure Course’ is billed as the ideal place to release you inner Tarzan or Jane. It will take at least two and half hours to complete.
The grand finale will be an adrenalyn-inducing 250-metre zip wire slide.
Plans include a log cabin, swings, obstacles, scramble nets, vertical climb sections, and a range of high rope activities all set in the magnificent South Barrule plantation.
The park is billed as an example of the reinvention of Manx tourism, basing itself around the island’s natural resources.
Mr Salter added: ‘ I would like to personally thank DEFA Minster Phil Gawne for having the confidence to facilitate this venture, and I don’t say this lightly, but he deserves credit for his involvement.’