Flamingo Land quits scheme for seafront attraction

THE OWNER of the Flamingo Land theme park has withdrawn its interest in plans for a Scarborough seafront attraction on the site of the former Futurist Theatre, just days after council leader Steve Siddons said work was continuing.

Coun Siddons told a full council meeting that the authority “continues to work” with its preferred bidder, Flamingo Land, but Covid-19 had “got in the way”.

But Flamingo Land’s chief executive, Gordon Gibb, said his company had not discussed the plans with Coun Siddons since shortly after he became council leader several years ago.

He said the comments regarding the council’s continuing work on the plans “could not be further from the truth”. Mr Gibb added that he did not believe the council’s current set-up had the “understanding, knowledge, energy or imagination” to make the project a reality.

He said: “Reluctantly the company has withdrawn its interest in Scarborough as a direct consequence which is, on a personal level, devastating. I was brought up in Scarborough and looked forward to bringing a world class attraction to the town creating jobs, careers and prosperity for the area which would have undoubtedly followed.”

The operator of the theme park in Kirby Misperton, near Malton, revealed plans in 2017 for Flamingo Land Coast, including a building for attractions, restaurants and education facilities. A neighbouring building would have contained a winter garden and viewing area, and a 200ft “cliffhanger tower” ride.

Coun Siddons said while there had been discussions “for some time”, there had never been a formal legal agreement between the parties and Flamingo Land was at liberty to withdraw at any time.

He said its decision “opens up opportunities with alternative investors”, adding: “It is important to ensure whatever is eventually built on the site is appropriate for the location and adds value to the town.”