Isle of Wight: Bank funds Victorian attraction
The Needles Park at Alum Bay on the Isle of Wight has had a makeover as part of a multi-million-pound deal with Heritage Great Britain PLC, funded by Alliance & Leicester Commercial Bank.
The new look Needles Park has a Victorian theme, marking the return of the traditional family day out at the coast. The Victorian theme is in keeping with the attraction's new Pier Head Shopping Emporium which opened on 15th March 2008, where you can browse the many gifts and souvenirs on offer in the traditional style shops.
In 2007, the park unveiled a new coffee shop Needles Perks and the 'Spins and Needles' teacup ride in the children's play area, in the lead up to Heritage Great Britain's plans for The Needles Park makeover. In addition, the Alum Bay Glass Factory, Chairlift, Sweet Manufactory, Sand Shop and boat trips are all available to visitors.
Allan Leech, chief executive of Heritage Great Britain, said: "Needles Park is a key site for Heritage Great Britain and we will continue to invest in its success going forward. The Victorian makeover will breathe new life into the attraction and secure its place as one of the top visitor destinations in the region. The makeover of The Needles Park will be a terrific boost to the park and the local economy."
Attracting around 400,000 visitors each year, The Needles Park remains one of the Isle of Wight's top visitor destinations. Heritage Great Britain took ownership of the park in 1999 and has since invested over £1.2 million to maintain and develop the site.
Debbie Thompson of Alliance & Leicester Commercial Bank said: "Heritage Great Britain owns and operates some of the country's best known tourist attractions and they are investing millions to maintain and develop their key sites across the UK. We are delighted to be able to play a part in the success and development of these important landmarks, and look forward to working with Heritage Great Britain to protect them for many years to come."
