IT IS all happening on Barry Island.

A number of announcements have been made recently that demonstrate the challenges and opportunities that this iconic area presents.

I am delighted that Henry Danter and the wider family are continuing to invest in the fairground site.

The return of the fairground is proving to be a major catalyst for further investment.

I fully support the plans for a new log flume in time for the summer season of 2016.

Like many, I felt a tinge of nostalgia when the old log flume was knocked down – but having worked closely with Mr Danter – I knew that the best was yet to come.

The investment is really moving ahead.

However, it was very disappointing to see that the Vale Council had put up so many barriers to development on the Island.

In regard to the Dolphin Bar site, the Planning Inspectorate found against the local authority – and this decision will have reverberated around the country to developers looking for places to invest.

Whatever the opinion on the project, the Vale Council attempted to place unwarranted burdens on a developer.

This not only damages the reputation of our local authority, but investors will now be more cautious when considering investing in the Vale.

The Nell’s Point site has a huge amount of potential.

I am backing a project that has the ability to create sustainable year round jobs and enhance the growing reputation of Barry Island.

Investors are aware of the potential, but they need have confidence that the Vale Council has a vision that will enable projects to move forward.

If we can achieve that, then not only does the future of the Island look bright, but the Vale of Glamorgan as a whole can benefit.

I had confidence that our efforts in bringing Henry Danter to Barry would be just the start, the next couple of years should demonstrate how potential can be transformed into reality.