‘I bought the theme park I loved growing up’

I bought the theme park I loved growing up

James Mellors, a director at the Mellors Group, has transformed a childhood memory into a tangible reality by acquiring Lightwater Valley. The decision came after the park was put up for sale last year, and Mellors says he was eager to take ownership. “His aunt and uncle reside in Dinnington, so they used to take us there for outings,” he recalls. “We’ve spent countless years at the park, and it’s satisfying to finally claim it as our own and consider its future.”

Lightwater Valley’s Legacy and Rebranding

Located in North Yorkshire, Lightwater Valley opened near Ripon in 1969. It once housed the Ultimate, the world’s longest rollercoaster, which held the record from 1991 to 2000. After the Ultimate was dismantled in 2023, the park shifted its focus to younger visitors. Mellors notes that the transformation has been significant, though he feels the park lacked necessary investment. “The previous operators moved toward a younger demographic, which was a departure from the innovation of the Ultimate or the Rat, the first subterranean coaster built in 1987,” he explains.

A Vision for Growth and Challenges

Mellors also owns Fantasy Island in Ingoldmells, which he acquired in 2016. Yet, Lightwater Valley has always been a priority. “We aim for a Disneyland-like experience, but we’re realistic,” he says with a chuckle. “Our budget isn’t as vast as Disney’s, and we don’t have the same iconic characters. Still, we have ambitious plans to maximize the park’s potential and create something special.” The recent launch of the Spinning Racer marks the start of this new phase. “We wanted to refresh the park quickly to make it more appealing this season,” Mellors adds.

Costs and the Future of the Park

Mellors highlights the financial hurdles of operating a theme park. “Maintaining large rides requires substantial energy and labor, along with hidden expenses like land rent,” he says. “Entrance fees must cover all these costs, which can be tough for middle-income families.” Despite rising fuel prices affecting visitor travel, he remains optimistic. “You can’t replicate this experience online, so families will still choose to visit,” he argues. The path forward involves balancing creativity with practicality, ensuring the park stays a beloved destination for generations.