Thorpe Park’s plans to build a new roller coaster, dubbed ‘Project Exodus’, have been approved by Runnymede Borough Council.
Merlin Entertainments’ latest project was given the green light by Runnymede Borough Council on 2 November, SurreyLive reports.
Consultancy firm Lichfields said in a planning statement: “The redevelopment will refresh the ride offer in this part of the resort and will deliver Thorpe Park Resort’s first roller coaster since The Swarm in 2012.
“The redevelopment will involve the removal of existing rides in operation, namely Lumber Jump, Rocky Express and Timber Tug Boat, as well as Old Town Grill and other theming features.”
Project Exodus
The statement adds that “the buildings and structures of Loggers Leap and Canada Creek Railway, both of which have been closed for some time, will also be removed”.
Opened in 1979, Thorpe Park boasts more than 30 thrilling rides, including the UK’s fastest roller coaster, Stealth. Additional offerings include coasters based on The Walking Dead and SAW.
The new coaster, according to the planning statement, will feature a steel track “partly positioned over water” with a maximum height of 72 metres. The track will be supported by steel columns.
“The proposed roller coaster forms a crucial element of the resort’s post-Covid-19 recovery,” the statement said.
“Investment in the renewal and enhancement of rides and attractions is paramount if the resort is to sustain interest and remain competitive in the leisure and tourism market.”
The new ride, which is located on green belt land, “will not adversely affect views, or the openness of the green belt”, Thorpe Park said in the proposal.
Described as an “exhilarating experience”, the coaster will feature “associated facilities” including a photo shop and F&B outlet.
In the proposal, Merlin Entertainments also said that “without investment in new rides, visitor numbers will decline”.
Images: Merlin Entertainments
