PY Gerbeau has stepped down from his role as CEO of the London Resort, a planned £2.5 billion attraction on the Swanscombe Peninsula in Kent.
Despite Gerbeau’s departure, the London Resort has confirmed that a planning application will be submitted in 2023. However, the proposals will be changed “significantly”.
London Resort Company Holidings (LRCH) withdrew its planning application for the theme park in March, with plans to resubmit an application this year.
The London Resort will no longer spread across the whole of the Swanscombe Peninsula, taking into account the decision by Natural England to designate the land as a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI).
Steve Norris, chairman of LRCH, said (via KentOnline): “I’ve had the pleasure of working with LRCH for more than a decade now. Progress has not been easy or straightforward.
“We have faced a number of issues which have delayed us including a designation by Natural England as a SSSI, and being forced to revise our entire transport strategy.”
He added: “PY was a great leader and we are very grateful to him for his contribution.
“He helped us develop our business plan and brought some great insight into the history of the leisure industry.”
Norris said the project will undergo “further financial restructuring”. “It will be funded, has a realistic and deliverable business plan and compelling partnerships with global brands. It’s time to move forward at pace with our new application,” he said.
Plans to be changed “significantly”
Norris continued: “We have benefitted from a first-class team at the London Resort, but after this tumultuous year, it’s time for a comprehensive reset and refocus.
“We will be changing the proposals significantly, but remain wholly committed to delivering in Swanscombe.
“There is huge scope for exciting destination leisure development and we will share more as we move forward next year.”
Save Swanscombe Peninsula recently unveiled an alternative vision for the site in Kent where the London Resort was set to be built.
Images: London Resort Company Holidings
