Flambards theme park in Helston, Cornwall has announced its closure “with immediate effect” due to rising costs and declining attendance.
In a statement on its website, Flambards said the “difficult decision was reached only after all possible avenues had been exhausted and we fully recognise the impact of this closure on the local community and the sense of loss that it may bring”.
Flambards said there has been continued investment in the park since it was saved from closing down in 2012 by current owners Livingston Leisure Ltd.
However, “rising costs and a steady decline in visitor numbers have made the park’s operation and further investment unsustainable”, it added.
This year, Flambards had to retire several older rides due to “the increasing difficulty of sourcing specialised parts”, which contributed to the decision to shut down, as did the “extensive remedial work” needed on the park’s Victorian Village exhibition.
The Flambards team will “investigate alternative options to preserve and honour” the unique Victorian Village experience.
Although Flambards has closed, its indoor play centre, Ferdi’s Funland, will reopen later this month as a standalone attraction, the statement said.
“Flambards has been a cherished destination for generations, and it is with a heavy heart that we bid farewell,” it added.
Indoor play centre to reopen
“To our loyal supporters and dedicated team, who have given their unwavering commitment through difficult times, we extend our sincerest gratitude.”
First opened in 1976, Flambards houses family-friendly attractions like the Skyraker drop ride, the Colorado River log flume, and the Western Mine Train.
Local MP Andrew George told the BBC: “After almost half a century, Flambards has been a constant in our lives, for visitor activity, employment, community events and parties.”
Miles Kenchington, Helston’s mayor, told the publication he was “so sorry for those people who are going to be without a job coming up to Christmas”.
Images courtesy of Flambards
