The company behind the £3.5 billion theme park proposal confirmed the news in a statement on Tuesday.
The South-East England site is equivalent to the size of 136 Wembley stadiums and would be located across the Thames on the Swanscombe Peninsula in Kent
It was due to open to the public in 2025 but the future of the theme park was brought into question following the statement from London Resort’s CEO on Thursday.
£3.5 billion theme park plans withdrawn. Credit: London Resort
Among a series of reasons, PY Gerbeau, noted that the Freeport status being introduced in Tilbury was one of the factors behind the decision.
PY Gerbeau said: “In the best interests of the London Resort, we are withdrawing the current application; as a result of the classification of Tilbury as a Freeport which has meant revisions are required in moving the ferry terminal from Tilbury to Grays. We are working closely and collaborating with Thurrock Council on that matter.
“This issue, combined with the decision by Natural England to designate a brownfield contaminated site as a SSSI has impacted the project. We in turn have acquired significant land holdings as part of our mitigation strategy combined with our commitment to spend £150m on environmental improvements on the peninsula.
“These changes are considered material and as such require withdrawal and resubmission. We have repeatedly petitioned for latitude, extensions of time and of course understanding from the Examining Authority and the Planning Inspectorate.”
It is understood that the theme park’s creators are working with the relevant groups and are currently planning to renew their application later this year.
Mr Gerbeau added: ““We will continue our engagement with the local community, statutory bodies, landowners and others to make sure we can reach as many agreements as possible before resubmission. Make no mistake we are still 100% committed to this amazing project and we…
Source : times
