Fashion show to replaced with rides?

[Martyn]

Apparently, the Fashion Show isn't returning to Fantasy Island this year, and it's apparently being replaced with fair ground rides?

We've heard before that the Waltzers maybe returning for this year, so I guess they may be placed on the old Fashion Show plot? Or maybe there will be more than just the Waltzers this year?

None of this is confirmed by the way, just 'word of mouth'.

[Chris]

With the way the park seems to be going, I wouldn't be surprised if sooner or later they end up selling their rides and either hiring or pitching their land to travelling fairs. It'd work on a similar principle to their business strategy for the market, and wouldn't require expenses for ride maintenance repairs. On the other hand, they could transport some of their own rides to other places (such as the Hyde Park Winter Wonderland/02 Arena/Nottingham Goose Fair) during closed season to make extra cash.

[Martyn]

Apparently the Waltzers are definitely coming back this year and there *should* be more rides with them!

Hmm, its becoming a bit ridiculous now, having a mini fair ground opposite Fantasy Island. Talk about shoot yourself in the foot!

[Chris]

As I said above though, I think it's a good move. They probably make more from the rent than they do on the profits of their own rides. If they could somehow negotiate to allow wristbands to be used on all rides (whether owned by the park or not) it could benefit the public, the park and travelling showmen.

[Martyn]

Yeah I get what you're saying, but this is Fantasy Island, they don't do things the normal way!

Chances are these new rides wont be included in wristbands and the place will start to look a mess. I can just see these new rides opposite Fantasy Island, looking a right state, with mess everywhere!

I think I'd feel a lot better about it if the rides were actually placed on Fantasy Island's property, like by Jubilee Odyssey and AC. At the end of the day, whats wrong with putting them there? They'll only take up parking spaces, which is what they'll be doing opposite anyway.

[vectra]

if i may remember a few years ago im sure that fantasy island did have a few travelling rides near where the go carts are situated. can anyone rember them?. well with the fashion show im glad its going to be haunest its a shambles in that part. i do think that fantasy island really needs to sit down and think properly about the running of the complex. i know that the market is tacky but then on the other hand it draws the holiday makers but why have the same crap sold in another stall say around the corner. so if this was stopped this would then generate more space for more rides etc. if they really thought about the place i do think they could really make a go of it. but for the travelling rides i think they should be best kept to a travelling fair and not a theme park. maybe this is a ploy to pay off their debts who knows. i have been going to fantasy island for a few years now and my little one loves it but im really starting to consider my options on going elsewhere as there is nothing new that seems to be attracting me to the place. which is a shame.

[Martyn]

At the end of the day, I suppose getting rid of the Fashion show is another one of them small steps to make the place 'tidier', as it was very messy and tacky.

if i may remember a few years ago im sure that fantasy island did have a few travelling rides near where the go carts are situated. can anyone rember them?.

No I cant remember that, the only thing I can think of is the House of Horror's from last year, and that small selection of Kiddie rides next to the maintenance shed.

i do think that fantasy island really needs to sit down and think properly about the running of the complex.

Yes we all think that I'm sure. Its extra annoying too because its the real simple things that let Fantasy Island down, and it just makes you think 'what on earth are they doing?'

but why have the same crap sold in another stall say around the corner. so if this was stopped this would then generate more space for more rides etc.

But at the end of the day, when they charge as much as they do for the rent, they cant really tell that person what they can and cant sell.

im really starting to consider my options on going elsewhere as there is nothing new that seems to be attracting me to the place. which is a shame.

I know what you mean. Skegness sea front is booming at the moment, with the new Bell's complex open, the SkyPier complex in construction and the new Grand Central complex on its way, as well as the new thrill ride at Botton's and the Waterway re-opening. Yet Ingoldmells nowadays is a tip. I think this year will be probably be the first year we dont visit Fantasy Island that much. I will just to be nosey and get rides on Jubilee Odyssey, but thats probably it.

[Martyn]

Apparently the Waltzers are being constructed already! T'is a bit early if you ask me!

The park doesn't open for over 2 weeks, but then I suppose thats irrelivant actually as they can operate when ever!

Still, cant see them doing much business really, not at least until Easter.

[Martyn]

Yeah, as it stands, these other 'rides' are kiddie rides.....

And they're already up.

[tom.com]

Can you post some pics please