RCCGB FORUM

Maxine · Posted: Sun Jun 15, 2008 2:28 pm Post subject: BPB going downhill?

I was at BPB yesterday and was alarmed to see how much the park has deteriorated. The south gate has been permanently closed forcing everyone to enter via the north gate and pass through x-ray machines and bag searches - not very welcoming. I noticed the Grand National was going round completely empty. Not testing the ride, just no riders on a summer Saturday. The only upgrades to the park seem to be the ice rink (Amanda's only real passion, I feel) and the addition of numerous food/retail outlets. If/when BPB start charing £5 admission next year I think the park as well as the resort itself will die. Friends who live in Blackpool say that every week someone from outside the resort is writing to the Gazette complaining about the proposed £5 entrance fee and saying it will increase the cost of their holiday/weekend break and they simply won't visit the town any more. All very sad. Sad

Magic · Posted: Sun Jun 15, 2008 4:06 pm Post subject:

To be fair metal detectors and a parks entrance is becoming more and more common. The way they are used at Blackpool are nothing compared to US parks, especially Six Flags Great Adventure who practically do a full strip search to get in the park.

I fear this year will be bad for all UK parks, with rises in gas, electricity, petrol, food etc. people just don't have the dispossable income to go to theme parks. I'm sure what you are seeing in Blackpool is happening all voer the country.

As for the £5 admission I personally feel it could be a good idea and am prepared to see how it goes. If it reduces the violent and thuggish element entering the park and turn it into something more family friendly then it'll be a good idea. Don't forget the £5 gets you a few rides that families can enjoy together and for those buying a ride wristband the £5 is included. Of course if it goes all Pete Tong then I'll accept it was a bad decision, but don't judge Blackpool by Southport.
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butler · Posted: Mon Jun 16, 2008 6:03 pm Post subject:

With regards the £5 I think it is a bad idea. When my family and I go to the pleasure beach we only pay for the 2 of us that ride. My wife who dose not ride dose not pay this will now all stop.
I also think entry prices across the board in the uk are way too high. Entry to Cedar point and parking works out at approx £28/29 now compere that to the £32 it costs to go to thorpe park or alton towers.

bluea61 · Posted: Mon Jun 16, 2008 9:14 pm Post subject:

The problem over here is things are just generally more expensive.
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Steve
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chewie · Posted: Wed Jun 25, 2008 7:31 pm Post subject:

stevencaine · Junior Hyper Poster Joined: 07 Oct 2007 Posts: 139

unless its owned by sixflags