Attraction to remain shut as operator pulls out
DEVON Wildlife Trust is pulling out of running a major tourist attraction on the East Devon coast, citing the coronavirus crisis which has put finances under huge pressure.
After five years of managing Seaton Jurassic, the Trust has said it had taken what it says was a “very tough decision” not to continue in its role as the visitor attraction’s operator.
As a result, Seaton Jurassic will remain closed after the current lockdown restrictions ease. A number of open days and one-off events is planned for the summer, and people are urged to check with Seaton Jurassic’s website and social media for updates.
Devon Wildlife Trust pointed to the “unique and unprecedented challenges posed by the Covid-19 pandemic,” combined with the need to undertake substantial, costly renovations to the attraction’s exhibitions which, it said, were at the heart of its decision.
Seaton Jurassic, which consists of exhibition galleries, education areas, gardens and a café, is owned by East Devon District Council and was opened in 2016. Since then, 250,000 visitors have come to explore its unique interpretation of the story of life and its evolution from the Jurassic to the present day.
However, the past 12 months have presented unique challenges. Devon Wildlife Trust’s chief executive, Harry Barton, said: “We’re very proud of what we have achieved at Seaton Jurassic over the past five years. The team of staff and volunteers we’ve built have done great work establishing the centre.
“However, the past year has been like no other. Visitor attractions throughout the UK have suffered greatly from the restrictions on travel and social distancing measures put in place as a result of Covid-19.
“Seaton Jurassic has faced long periods of enforced closure and visitor numbers have fallen, while significant investment to upgrade and refresh the exhibits is now needed.”
Councillor Nick Hookway, East Devon District Council’s Portfolio Holder for Tourism, Sports, Leisure and Culture, said the local authority was grateful for work of the Wildlife Trust and would be looking at the implications of its pull-out and what the next chapter would bring.