Monday, 25 April 2016 18:47

Coaster in Long Term Plan for Chessington

Chessington World of Adventures has begun a public consultation on their long term plan for the theme park, including a new family roller coaster, 45 safari-themed lodges, ride/animal attractions and infrastructure work.

The purpose of their emerging Long Term Plan is to guide planned investment over the next 5 to 10 years, with the aim of continuing to grow the resort as a short break destination and keep on attracting day visitors in a competitive market.

The objectives are to:

  • Diversify and increase overnight accommodation
  • Maintain visitor numbers by refreshing the existing theme park and investing in new rides and attractions
  • Retain visitors on the site for longer by providing variety and multi-day attractions
  • Continue to focus on families with children (5 to 12 years as the core age group), with the animal collection central to the future plans

The most exciting part of the vision is a new roller coaster. The large field located to the south of Land of the Dragons and adjacent to Pirates Cove and Transylvania has been identified as a suitable site for a brand new headline ride. The medium sized roller coaster could be either an animal themed ‘wild jungle ride’ or a ‘water coaster’ targeted at families.

Two other sites have been identified for re-development with new ride or animal attractions. The largest is the expanse currently occupied by Peeking Heights, Toadie's Crazy Cars, Tiny Truckers and the Carousel. The smaller site is in front of Hocus Pocus Hall and includes the Wild Wood space and the area used for Halloween and Christmas events.

There is also the potential for a new indoor attraction linked to the Safari Hotel, such as a soft play area or 3D cinema, involving the re-use of an existing building.

An area above the Wanyama Village & Reserve has been identified as a suitable location for up to 45 safari-themed lodges providing additional overnight accommodation, along with an exclusive Giraffe feeding platform. These would join the already popular Safari Hotel, Azteca Hotel and the new Explorer Glamping opening this year.

The closing date for feedback is 9th May, after which they will continue working with the Royal Borough of Kingston Upon Thames before submitting a draft Long Term Plan by mid June, a final version by the end of July, with endorsement by the end of September. Preparation of planning applications for specific projects will commence in November.

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