A derelict theme park on the Lincolnshire coast could soon be transformed into a major luxury seaside resort, dubbed a 'Center Parcs by the sea'. Plans submitted to councillors in Cleethorpes outline a £70 million redevelopment of the former Pleasure Island Theme Park, which has stood abandoned for a decade since its closure in 2016. The ambitious proposal aims to breathe new life into the 60-acre site, promising a significant economic boost to the region.
The comprehensive development envisions 272 holiday lodges, two hotels with a combined 206 rooms, a conference centre, and a casino. The plans also include a cycle hire facility, a Lidl supermarket, and a drive-through coffee shop, creating a diverse leisure and retail complex. Developers anticipate the project will generate more than 800 jobs during the construction phase, following the demolition of the remaining theme park structures.
The regeneration scheme, which was first put forward in January 2023, has undergone extensive environmental assessments and ecological impact reports. These studies were prompted by objections from local residents and rival supermarket chains Tesco and Aldi. Despite these initial hurdles, case officers have recommended the proposal for approval, highlighting its potential to enhance local tourism and provide new attractions for residents.
However, a final decision on the complex was deferred by North East Lincolnshire Council officials at a planning committee meeting on 8 July 2026. This delay was a result of a last-minute legal challenge lodged by Tesco. Council officials are now reviewing the implications of this challenge before proceeding with a definitive vote on the project's future.
If approved, the 'Center Parcs by the sea' concept would mark a significant shift for the Cleethorpes area, moving away from its traditional amusement park roots towards a more upscale, year-round holiday destination. The development is expected to not only attract tourists but also provide new amenities and a key pedestrian route to the beach for the local community.