Grand Pier Latest News
In Collaboration with Weston & Somerset Mercury
New thrill-seeking rides for Grand Pier
07th May 2009
A THREE-STOREY fun house, a laser room and a mirror maze are among the thrilling attractions that will be found on Weston's multi-million pound Grand Pier.
The revamped state-of-the-art pavilion will feature some of the most technologically-advanced rides in the world, it has been revealed this week.
Co-owner Kerry Michael says he has plans to have a ghost train three times bigger than the one on the old pier, as well as Psychadelia, a crazy house-type attraction designed to 'blow your mind' according to designers.
Visitors will be able to explore the inside of the ride wearing 60s-style glasses.
In addition there are plans to have a new 300m go-kart track to replace the one that went up in flames, as well as a paintballing area, helter skelter, a helicopter ride for children and a drop-ride that takes thrill-seekers 12m in the air before letting them fall.
There will also be a sidewinder attraction, where riders spin around and a double wave, which is a W-shaped ride that would run along the top of the canopy along the boardwalk carrying 20 people standing on a surfboard.
Mr Michael said: "We have travelled thousands of miles to source the most exciting rides and attractions for the pier that we can find.
"That has involved trips to the USA and throughout Europe, as well as the best of the UK theme parks.
"We will continue those travels throughout this year, so that when the pier reopens it will have the very latest amusements and rides available. It is important to cater for every age group.
"We will have the traditional Victorian tea room where the older members of the family can sit and enjoy the view.
"There will be three rides specifically for the youngest members of the family, as well as a soft play area.
"There will be adrenaline rides for teenagers and those who like their thrills.
"The crazy house will be three stories high and twice the size of the one that was in the old pavilion and the go-kart track will be 300m-long and wider so there will be more overtaking with the ability to programme the cars remotely to suit the age group of the riders.
"All our efforts are geared to making it the best pier in the world and with our current list of rides we believe we will achieve that."
Work has already started on strengthening the structure, so that the main construction can start on the £34million attraction.
Kerry and Michelle Michael hope to have the Grand Pier open by next summer.
Please go to the Weston Mercury to read article.
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