Fantasy Island amusement park in Lincolnshire has gone into administration following a period of “financial difficulty”.
The Ingoldmells attraction, which includes a market and caravan park, will continue to operate as normal while the process is ongoing.
Administrators Duff & Phelps were called in yesterday to manage and review the park, and London-based firm’s managing director Paul Clark said it was “business as usual” for the time being.
“The business will continue to operate as usual while the administrators review the company’s financial position,” he said.
“No job losses are expected among permanent staff and the seasonal temporary expansion of the payroll during the summer holiday season will continue as usual.”
It is understood that a buyer will eventually be sought for the park, with a statement from the administrators said that registrations of interest were welcome.
‘Important attraction’
Mr Clark said: ““Fantasy Island is an important leisure destination that attracts up to 40,000 visitors a day.
The park features the UK’s tallest Vekoma Suspended Looping Coaster, the Odyssey
“As we head into one of the busiest months of the year it is very much business as usual and customers should be assured that this will not impact their experience, whether they are visiting the rides, market or one of the shows.
“It is also important for employees to know that their jobs will not be impacted during these busy summer months and we look forward to working with the team.”
East Lindsey District Council Portfolio Holder for Economic Development, Craig Leyland, told the Skegness Standard newspaper: “It’s always disappointing when a business finds itself in financial difficulty.
“Fantasy Island is an important visitor attraction for Ingoldmells and the wider District and we hope the administrators are able to find a way forward that secures the future of the site and jobs long term.
“We’re pleased the administrators have confirmed that Fantasy Island remains open as normal during the administration process and that no job loses are to be expected at this time.”
‘Concern’
Executive Member for Economic Development at Lincolnshire County Council, Colin Davie told the Skegness Standard he was concerned by the news, but did not expect the site to close.
“Fantasy Island has been, for many years, a key tourist attraction on the Lincolnshire coast so we are, of course, concerned by today’s news.
“However, local tourism is booming on the coast and across Lincolnshire, so we would be very surprised if the site did close – particularly at this time of year.
“The previous and present owners have invested positively in the area over the past few years and become an important part of the local community, as well as being a significant employer of local people.
“I’m sure many will be shocked by today’s news and will be very sorry to see them go.
“I will be making my full officer team available to help and assist any potential new operator or developer for this key and strategic site, so that they’re aware of the support we can offer to help make the attraction a local and national success.”
Fantasy Island employs more than 170 staff, 52 of whom are full-time employees.