One of the sub-contractors responsible for the two flumes at the National Sports Centre (NSC) was expected back on the island as the Manx Independent went to press yesterday.

The firm Barr & Wray was responsible for signing off the two flumes in November 2021.

This sign-off process was delayed for over a month.

It was due to take place on October 28, however a number of issues were flagged.

At the time, the Department of Education, Sport and Culture insisted that none of these issues affected safety, and most had been resolved.

In a statement, the DESC said it hoped that during this visit the sub-contractor will establish the cause of the injuries that ’left us no option but to close one of the two new flumes in December’.

In response to allegations of legal action against the NSC, it added: ’We are not aware of any legal action at this time and the safety of our visitors remains our top priority as we look to find the solution and reopen the slide as soon as possible.’

Currently only one of the flumes is causing an issue - the ’fast’ blue and yellow slide.

The department confirmed that 11 injuries have occurred on or near the flumes since they opened, with a log kept on site of the incidents and their severity.

When asked if any had required hospital treatment, the department said: ’Not at the time - no ambulances were called although we don’t know if people visited hospital subsequently as this is not recorded.’

The slide was ultimately closed ’as a matter of safety due to the pattern of accidents’ and it is hoped that with the arrival of the sub-contractor back on island, the safety issues can be resolved.

The statement concluded: ’We understand the situation is unfortunate and apologise for the inconvenience it has caused our visitors.

’The second flume, leisure pool, splash zone and all other NSC facilities remain open for the public to enjoy.’