Blackpool flies into future
THE biggest investment in the resort of Blackpool for more than a century will include a flying theatre and an alien diner.
They are part of a £300million revitalisation scheme involving a huge leisure complex on the site of the town’s Central Station, which closed in 1964. It is expected to become a new landmark on the Golden Mile.
At the heart of the project is an indoor adventure park and “fully immersive flying theatre” based on Chariots Of The Gods?, a story written in 1968 by Swiss author Erich von Daniken.
There is also a 150-bedroom hotel, a virtual reality experience with “epic scale” visuals and body tracking, an alien diner themed bar and restaurant, a multi-media exhibition space and indoor interactive entertainment. It is the
‘This has so many possibilities’
brainchild of Austrian-born composer Norbert Reichart, who bought the rights to the book which explored alien encounters and unsolved mysteries of ancient civilisation. It sold 70 million copies.
He said: “The book was a phenomenon and has so many possibilities for this attraction in Blackpool as it touches on ancient history, culture space travel and will appeal to all ages.”
The “flying theatre” will be similar to Soarin’ at Walt Disney World in Florida where thrill seekers are sprayed with water and blown with wind while watching a segment of video. It will be the UK’s first 5D experience, say the developers Nikal.
Council bosses believe the scheme, due to open in 2024, will attract 600,000 visitors a year.
The Eden Project has also unveiled plans for an £80million attraction in Morecambe.