A man-made island, currently used as a landfill site, could become a cultural theme park if plans from Italian ride manufacturer Zamperla win the support of the Venetian authorities.

Zamperla wants to invest £68m in converting the uninhabited San Biagio island into a four hectare park with a 55m Ferris wheel, thrill rides and an exhibition about the history and ecology of Venice and the lagoon’s heritage.

The company, which has previously converted a nuclear power plant into a park, has used the scientific knowledge of Ca’ Foscari University to help put together the plans, which aim to restore the lagoon to a natural environment.

The first phase would involve a clear up of the toxic site. The second phase would develop the centre, using augmented reality installations to teach visitors about Venice and the lagoon’s ancient history.

Antonio Zamperla says: “We have realised important projects around the world, while always guaranteeing innovation, environmental sustainability, experience, expertise, meticulous tests, maximum reliability and security of all our architectures. Venice will not be different.”