Merlin Entertainments has secured a contract to operate Blackpool Sandcastle, the UK's largest indoor waterpark.

The visitor attractions giant will take over the day-to-day management of the property, which is owned by Blackpool Council, a local authority.

Based in South Beach, Blackpool, the indoor park sustains a tropical 84-degree climate and houses more than 18 slides, rides and attractions.

It will become Merlin’s ninth property in Blackpool, joining the likes of Blackpool Tower, Madame Tussauds Blackpool and Sea Life Blackpool in its portfolio.

According to Kate Shane, regional director for Merlin Entertainments, the management deal for the Sandcastle Waterpark Blackpool supports Merlin’s wider strategy to establish clusters of family-friendly attractions in key strategic locations.

"With eight top attractions already in Blackpool, we’re excited to put on our armbands and add a ninth to our guest offering," Shane said.

"We firmly support Blackpool’s ambition to be the UK’s number one family seaside resort and this partnership is another step forward in delivering this vision.”

"Our newest edition will join our other incredible attractions in Blackpool including; The Blackpool Tower, Circus, and Ballroom, as well as Madame Tussauds, The Dungeons, Sea Life and Peter Rabbit Explore and Play."

Blackpool Council leader, Lynn Williams, added: "“The Sandcastle Waterpark is one of the Council’s big success stories.

"Over the years, it has received significant investment to enable it to retain and grow its immense popularity with visitors and residents alike.

"On the national stage it is viewed as an exemplar attraction in terms of its accessibility for people with a disability. We have an established relationship with Merlin Entertainments in terms of operating some of our key tourism assets and we are confident that this appointment will take the Sandcastle Waterpark on to the next level.”