ICON-IC funding deal for Blackpool thrill seekers
Visitors to Blackpool Pleasure Beach are going head over heels for the UK’s first double launch rollercoaster, thanks to £6m in funding from NatWest and Lombard.
The ICON rollercoaster has officially opened to the public at a cost of £16.25m, with construction expenses met by the £6m asset finance package provided by the bank.
ICON launches visitors on an exhilarating two-and-a-half-minute journey where they will feel the same acceleration as a Formula 1 driver, before twisting and turning at speeds of up to 85km/h across the park.
The ride took 16 months and 100,000 hours to complete, with thousands of tonnes of steel imported from leading German ride manufacturer, Mack Rides, to construct it.
ICON’s addition to the park is expected to appeal to thrill seekers and boost visitor numbers at the amusement park.
Founded in 1896, and still owned by the fourth generation of the same family, Blackpool Pleasure Beach is one of the biggest employers in the area, providing work for around 220 permanent staff and 440 seasonal workers every year.
Jonathan Gray, finance director at Blackpool Pleasure Beach, said: “We are all thrilled ICON is now open. After a long 16 months it is great to see all our hard work pay off.
“The ride’s arrival represents a significant investment for the business, which will not only increase visitor numbers, but cement our position as one of the top leisure destinations in the UK.
“The funding and support from NatWest and Lombard enabled us to progress a significant part of the build, and ensured we had the means to have the ride finished on time.”
Chris Thomas, relationship manager at NatWest, said: “After seeing the ride in action, I can say it was well worth the wait.
“From working with Jonathan and the Blackpool Pleasure Beach team, I know there was so much work that went on behind the scenes to ensure the ride was completed on time. It will be a welcome addition to an already iconic theme park.”
