FURIOUS locals have criticised the planned closure of the UK’s oldest rollercoaster, calling the decision a “disgrace”.
Residents and regulars expressed their outrage after it was announced the ride would close for good.
The Scenic Railway ride has delighted seaside visitors at Dreamland in Margate since it first opened in 1920.
Local resident Susan Jordan told BBC South East: “It’s a disgrace. Dreamland has been here for so long. It’s part of our heritage. Everybody that is in Margate loves the rollercoaster.”
Another labelled the Scenic Railway the “heart of Margate”, saying the amusement park will not be the same without the historic ride.
One comment on a Facebook post calling for the rollercoaster to continue to function said the news was “heartbreaking”, adding it would be “such a loss” to the town.
Now Grade II listed, the rickety wooden ride has seen many ups and downs through the years, having been damaged by fires in 1948 and 2008.
It was forced to shut back in 2024 due to damage to the famous wooden track, with parts of it breaking off.
Not only that, but due to its age and design, it was advised that it would need a daily inspection.
With these estimated to take around five hours, it has since been deemed not viable to stay open.
Margate Councillor Rob Yates told Kent Online the decision had left him “absolutely fuming”.
“It’s killing the tradition of it being a theme park. I want Live Nation to rethink this decision,” he added.
On Tuesday the theme park said: “The Scenic Railway has completed its journey as a roller coaster and will now take well-earned retirement from operation as a ride.
“This is not the end but a new beginning.
“We are committed to developing a new long-term vision that will not only showcase this remarkable Grade II listed structure, but reimagine its purpose so it can continue to be enjoyed by future generations in a fresh and meaningful way.
“This summer we will be hosting a pop-up exhibit celebrating the history of the Scenic Railway. In the longer term, it will be re-invented for people to enjoy in a different way.”
Dreamland Margate has been approached for further comment.
