Great Yarmouth’s Pleasure Beach has taken to social media to explain the decision makinhg process behind retaining an entry fee this year, citing the financial demands of maintaining a seasonal attraction with heritage rides at a time of “dramatically” rising costs.
Great Yarmouth Pleasure Beach has responded to commentary on its entry fee this week, taking to social media to acknowledge the outgoings associated with running a seasonal business amid rising maintenance, wage and energy costs.
In a post announcing its reopening for the 2025 season, the park reiterated its commitment to providing affordable family entertainment, but explained that a return to a free-entry model would be impossible in the current economic environment.
“We understand that times are tough, and we’re committed to keeping the park as affordable as possible,” said a spokesperson. “The cost of operating an amusement park has risen dramatically, from rising wages and national insurance contributions to higher electricity, utility bills, and the cost of parts and materials. Unfortunately, profit margins are getting tighter each year.”
“We see comments on social media about how people long for the days when entry was free. While we agree that the eighties and nineties were a magical time, the circumstances have changed significantly since then. We’ve had to adapt to keep the park sustainable.”
The Pleasure Beach has made significant investments this winter in new audio equipment, booking facilities, new rides and staff training, alongside maintaining its heritage attractions such as the 1932 Scenic Railway, and the park added that for the cost of its £5 Fun Card, customers can still enjoy “unlimited free access to the park all season long.”
“It’s a challenging time for many, and we’ve sadly seen numerous beloved local businesses close their doors. Please continue to support independent businesses – they are the heart of our communities.”
It’s been said, not just by this paper, but in business circles around the industry that the cocktail of rising costs and a jittery economy spooked at home by a budget of tax hikes and globally by an irresponsible loon in the White House, is pushing the hospitality sector to the edge. Pleasure Beach Resort, Brighton Palace Pier, Joyland, Oakwood, Britannia Pier – they can’t all be wrong. Neither can the pub sector nor the high street economy – British businesses need a government with a growth plan – and it’s not the growth in taxation that’s needed.
Will someone please shake some sense into the Chancellor of the Exchequer?
