A proposal to transform the derelict Pleasure Island theme park site in Cleethorpes, Lincolnshire, into a resort described as a 'Center Parcs-by-the-sea' is under consideration by the North East Lincolnshire Council. The £70 million project, which was first submitted in 2023, is scheduled for a planning meeting on July 8. Officials are expected to recommend the proposals for approval.
The 60-acre site, which includes the former Pleasure Island theme park, has been abandoned since its closure in 2016. The park originally opened in 1993 and attracted hundreds of thousands of visitors annually with attractions like Alakazam, Terror Rack, and Gravitron. Recent images show remnants of the park, including broken buildings and arcade machines.
The redevelopment plans involve clearing the existing structures and constructing new facilities. These include two hotels, one with 148 rooms and another with 58 rooms, along with 272 lodges, a holiday park, and retail outlets. Each lodge is designed to have a reception area and offer two to four bedrooms. Additional amenities proposed are restaurants, cafes, a garden centre, and a Lidl supermarket. A drive-through coffee shop and a cycle hire centre are also part of the plan. The site's central lake could be developed into a fishing spot with supporting facilities.
Church Lane Humberston Limited is spearheading the development. Adrian Smith, Director of the company, expressed delight that the proposal has reached the committee stage and is recommended for approval. He stated that the project is expected to create nearly 400 jobs and provide a significant boost to the local economy. The development partners include Lidl UK.
A report to councillors indicates that the scheme would support tourism and the visitor economy, improving the appearance of the currently derelict site. However, the proposal has faced objections from retailers such as Tesco and Aldi, as well as some local residents concerned about the potential impact on wildlife and traffic.
