Why is Blackpool part of that group of European Parks where you can use the annual pass?
That is an agreement between a number of independent parks. PB's involvement is likely down to Amanda's involvement with groups such as IAAPA. It is a reciprocal agreement so no doubt the parks all feel it adds some sort of value to their offering.
Also is it coincidence that Mack provided Icon?
It depends what you mean by 'coincidence'? Amanda has stated her family has a friendship with the Mack family. Icon was a bespoke coaster designed for BPB, it was not inexpensive and as far as we know there was no special agreements between the two parties. It is normal for a number manufacturers to submit proposals for rides, and the park to choose the best. It is then the case that the book a 'slot' for manufacture which will be a few years down the line.
Mack is one of the more notable manufacturers at the moment, and as such I am sure it was felt that the park would be purchasing a quality attraction.
Could we see more of a long term plan to develop the park with better theming, rides, but this might be bumpy bit of needing to raise funds?
My view is the park is an Amusement park and should stick with that as it could offer a more unique USP. In terms of theming, I am sure you will see themed rides, and themed buildings - I doubt you will see themed areas out with the kids stuff. You talk about 'better rides' - I would argue that the ride line-up is better than the likes of Towers - so 'better' is subjective.
We have discussed funding at length in this topic. BPB fund new attractions through borrowing. This borrowing can come from a number of areas, and due to the council's reliance on the park for visitor numbers, deals have been done in the past to guarantee loans through government an the likes. So, raising funds is not the issue you think it would be - they would just need to have a robust business plan in place.
Things at BPB seem very rocky and 'in flux' at the moment. I'm sure it's most of our hopes that this could be down to a change in direction or some sort of restructuring. The worry is that it could be down to Amanda being... well... Amanda.
You cannot blame the management, while the owner of the park overrules them.
Simple.
Known some ace management over the years at the Beach, going back fifty years.
All the really good ones walk in the end out of frustration.
Recent good managers have walked, the old South park manager walked out of frustration...made far more money flogging mobile phones.
No names, but he was very good indeed.
Likewise able staff and supervisors, what happened to the long line of Icon supervisors...seem to have got through quite a few...one now makes more money, and greater job satisfaction, cleaning trams...says a lot about how the park is run.
The old admissions manager was absolutely ace...walked...I don't think he ever failed to help when we had admissions issues...good, polite and efficient.
Wonder why all the good management seem to walk in the end???
Maybe they just can't deal with the owner.
@rob666 you do speak the truth in a number of cases, however, I think it is important to remember that PB is a seasonal job. The likes of cleaning trams and selling phones is permanent - and comes with the benefits of that.
I've helped hire a number of people who previously worked at PB, and what I got from them is that a number of people at PB seem to have the same mentality as when the park was operating in the 80's and 90's. Ultimately, they treat people as a commodity who have should do exactly what is asked of them [even when to their massive detriment] and give nothing back. The management certainly need management training.
