This question’s harder than it looks. £10million could bring a lot to any theme park. Here’s what I’d do...
1: Overhaul of Drayton Manor Zoo. The concept art on the fences towards the back of the Zoo look really smart - and could bring it up to standards of a lot of UK zoos/ safari parks. Not too sure how much it’d cost to bring the concepts to life, however I’d imagine it’d be no more than £2million, especially considering the infrastructure and animals are already there.
2: G-Force’s replacement. I’ve said this a few times on this forum, a Vekoma ‘Family Suspended’ coaster (the 400 model) would be a perfect, family-friendly addition to the park. With the track being suspended, you could probably fit a handful of smaller rides underneath it too. As for a theme, I’ve always said seagulls would be a good fit for the surrounding Fisherman’s Wharf. Not too sure on costs however, I’d imagine one that’d fit G-Force’s site wouldn’t cost more that £1.5-£3million? Yet again unless it’s an operational ride, I’m not sure on ride costs from manufacturers.
3: Pirate Adventure’s replacement. If I’m being realistic, I’m 99% sure Pirate Adventure (the 1990 dark ride) isn’t coming back. With the park selling lots of the ride’s props in January’s 70th Anniversary auction, and attempting to sell it’s boats, it’s clear that they can’t/ don’t want to operate the ride. An indoor area with rides is something I’ve thought would be good for Drayton, especially with them opening during Christmas and February Half Term - when it gets very cold at some points. Imagine if the Pirate Adventure warehouse was used as an indoor area, with 3-5 rides, a show, shop and cafe. I’m probably being way too optimistic, but surely something around the size of Fantasy Island’s Pyramid wouldn’t cost as much as you’d think. I’d think a Pirate theme would work, however we all know that the building’s located right next to a certain area that is very popular and often expanded on...
