They are removing all visible branding and logos even painted oneson the floor in the pit, that makes no sense to only repaint them in the closed season, no sense at all.
Removing the ride sign makes some sense, but that is it. As you said removing a Gerstlauer is indeed simple.
I do not think removal is going to happen, but if i was having a strategy meeting at HQ i am telling you that they have at least considered relocation to another park outside of the uk as an option, i would consider that and i have a degree in business and business management.
I think an attempt at a rebrand may be the way forward here, i don't see "the smiler" operating again, though they could be ballsy and reopen as is. Though i doubt it.
I imagine the prohibition order is already lifted, as i stated before you can operate a ride during a HSE investigation, as Flamingoland are currently doing with Hero. Which is still under investigation though the prohibition has been lifted and is running again.
Merlin are now deciding how to move forward, and what is the best way to save their reputation as a safe and reputable corporation, removing the smiler branding is honestly a no brainer, they need to separate themselves from the brand as the rides name has hit the media hard and negatively. Expect a new name at the very least.
They may go one step further and rebrand the whole X sector, but i doubt it.
And ultimately the worst case scenario will be to relocate it, if it is indeed doomed in the eyes of the public and they refuse to ride despite a rename or rebrand, it will not be scrapped, that i can guarantee, it can still be a money maker with a new name in a new park that Merlin still own, and i for one could not justify scrapping an expensive major asset.
Look to next season, or even scarefest. The prohibition notice is probably lifted so it is likely down to the head office as to why it remains closed whilst they consider the rides future, the day the ride was operating would have been to get the prohibition order lifted by demonstrating it is safe.