Theme Park Owner Blasts Rachel Reeves Over Budget Impact on Revenue
Adventure Island’s owner criticizes Rachel Reeves, citing a £600,000 revenue loss impacting staffing and investments.
Rachel Reeves, Adventure Island, Philip Miller, Budget, Southend, Wicksteed Park, Northamptonshire, Inheritance Tax, UK
Miller reduced his staff size because of this. He plans to hire 200 fewer seasonal workers this summer. He has also stopped major investments and usually seeks new rides or attractions, but he needs to wait on those plans.
Adventure Island is free to enter. It has about 450 permanent employees. They had to increase prices to adjust. An independent group called them the “best value” park last year.
Annual passes rose 25% for most customers. Miller hopes that increase helps, but it may not fully reach the £600,000 needed. They tried to keep prices low until now.
Miller feels targeted by the government due to the budget and inheritance tax changes. His park sits near Southend’s long pier. He stated he cannot afford to die currently because taxes would force his family to sell the business, as they would need the money to pay the bill.
Wicksteed Park faces potential closure, also due to rising costs partly from the Budget. It is one of the oldest UK theme parks. This park sits in Northamptonshire and has over 281 acres of grounds with trails.
Wicksteed Park has more than 25 rides and attractions available. The park aims to benefit the local community. One visitor called Wicksteed Park a “lifeline”. It supports people’s well-being.