LC12 rollercoaster planning permission approved

Thorpe Park’s planned new rollercoaster, dubbed LC12, has had planning permission approved by Runnymede Council.

The committee meeting of 30 March saw a majority vote pass plans for the £18 million project, which will be constructed by Swiss manufacturers Bolliger & Mabillard.

Concerns were raised regarding the ride’s theme of aircraft disaster and proximity to Heathrow airport.

Councillor Moreton Moore said: “I just find the crash scene somewhat in bad taste, because it is so close to Heathrow. I just wonder if it is necessary.”

Councillor Mike Kusneraitis added: “I agree with Cllr Moore. We have had a big plane crash here in Staines, I lost friends to a helicopter crash too, I don’t agree with this.”

Mr Moore and Mr Kusneraitis did not object to the plans, but abstained from the vote, which saw the application passed by a majority.

The early stages of construction of the ride have already begun and it will open to the public in March next year.