Officials at the new USD20m (GBP12.7m, EUR15.3m) Splash Canyon Waterpark being built in Las Vegas, US, have announced its launch date has been pushed back until spring 2013.

The new visitor attraction had been due to open on Memorial Day weekend this year, but it has been decided to delay the unveiling to benefit from a full first-year season.

A large, 'surfable' wave pool; a three-slide complex with multi-rider tube slides; a children's water playground; and a 1,000ft (305m) lazy river will comprise the first phase of the park.

A big slide complex with speed slides and a six-lane mat racer; a four-storey RainFortress playground; and private cabanas are also proposed in stage one of the development.

SPB Partners are leading the scheme in a public-private partnership with Clark County and the Howard Hughes Foundation.

Roger Bulloch, managing partner at SPB Partners, said: "The response to Splash Canyon Waterpark has been tremendous, and nobody wants to open in May more than our own families.

"Moving our opening date to 2013 wasn't an easy decision, but it was the right long-term one. Now we'll be able to more fully enhance the guest experience, engage the community, and develop ideas, partnerships and sponsorships.

Details: www.splashlv.com