Summary
The deputy leader of Thanet District Council is urging the Culture Secretary to save Britain's oldest rollercoaster, the Scenic Railway, from closure. Dreamland Margate, the amusement park where the rollercoaster is located, has announced the ride is no longer viable and is considering new purposes for it. The rollercoaster, which opened in 1920, is a listed historical structure and has been out of action since 2024 due to structural issues.
Key Facts
- Britain's oldest rollercoaster, the Scenic Railway, is located at Dreamland Margate and first opened in 1920.
- The rollercoaster is a Grade II* listed structure, meaning it is protected due to its historical significance.
- The rollercoaster developed a structural fault in 2024 and has been out of operation since then.
- Helen Whitehead, deputy leader of Thanet District Council, is asking the Culture Secretary to get involved and help save the rollercoaster.
- Dreamland Margate announced that the ride is no longer viable and is seeking ideas from the public for its future use.
- The ride was severely damaged by an arson attack in 2008 and was restored in 2015 as part of a larger investment in the park.
- Any changes to the rollercoaster would need planning permission and listed building consent.
- The Department for Culture, Media and Sport has been contacted for a response on the situation.
