Having fulfilled his childhood dream of purchasing Lightwater Valley when it came on the market last year, James Mellors is keen to keep that dream rolling, announcing ambitious plans for the Ripon theme park to expand its appeal to families of all ages, including new rollercoaster Spinning Racer.
The Mellors Group has unveiled ambitious plans to revitalise Lightwater Valley theme park after purchasing the Ripon attraction last year, with the park’s new roller coaster Spinning Racer already opening to great acclaim.
Speaking to the BBC, director James Mellors explained his vision to create an experience akin to Disneyland at the 175 acre site, including thrill rides and attractions similar to those he remembers from regular visits as a child.
“My auntie and uncle live in Dinnington, so this is where they would bring us for a day out,” said Mellors. “We’ve visited the park throughout the years, so now it’s really nice to actually say it’s ours and think about what we can do with it.”
“It’s changed massively and, unfortunately, I don’t think it’s seen the investment it needed… In my opinion, the previous owners really went in the wrong direction and went down to more of a younger age group. You have to remember that the 12 and unders still have parents that are in their mid-20s, 30s, 40s and they still want to have a great time as well.”
Recalling past Lightwater Valley rides such as The Ultimate and The Rat, which were the world’s longest rollercoaster and the world’s first and only subterranean roller coaster respectively, Mellors confirmed his hopes to restore the park to its former glory.
“If you can imagine it almost being like a Disneyland, that’s where our vision is,” said Mellors. “It’s very difficult because the vision is unaffordable at the moment but we’ve got so many great ideas, things we want to do with the park, utilising more of the space to its full potential.”
A vision in search of affordability
James Mellors said… “If you can imagine it almost being like a Disneyland, that’s where our vision is. It’s very difficult because the vision is unaffordable at the moment but we’ve got so many great ideas, things we want to do with the park, utilising more of the space to its full potential…
