Blackpool Pleasure Beach cuts rides and hours after losses

A famous theme park in Lancashire, Blackpool Pleasure Beach, has announced it will close some rides and reduce opening hours due to financial difficulties. The park recently reported a pre-tax loss of £2.7 million, a significant increase from a loss of £520,000 the previous year. Opened in 1896, the park has seen visitor numbers not rebound since the COVID-19 pandemic. Rising staff costs and the ongoing cost-of-living crisis have made it challenging to attract guests. Some rides will now open later and close earlier in an effort to cut costs. The park's director said the current trading environment is very tough. He noted that the company is reviewing its operations to become more efficient. Blackpool Pleasure Beach is also planning to introduce a new ride called "Project MMXXVI," which will be a spinning pendulum reaching 138 feet. Despite an increase in revenue from £31.8 million to £32.1 million, the financial losses have raised concerns about the park's future. Similar attractions in the UK have also closed recently due to rising costs and declining visitors. Overall, Blackpool Pleasure Beach is trying to balance business needs with providing a quality experience for guests as it navigates these challenging times.