COUNCIL chiefs have said they will continue to work with Diggerland to find them a ‘suitable site’ in Wychavon after theme park bosses withdrew their plans for a park at The Valley.
As the Observer reported last week, Diggerland pulled out of the site in Evesham due to ‘unexpected and unforeseen circumstances’ – however the reasons behind this decision were never given.
The town was set to welcome the Midlands only Diggerland after planning chiefs gave the green light to the plans back in October 2015 but Wychavon District Council still hope they can keep the theme park in the district.
Following Diggerland’s announcement last week, council bosses said they would ‘love’ to see Diggerland in the district and are working with theme park bosses to find them another piece of land.
Council chiefs weren’t the only ones disappointed by the news, Evesham residents also expressed their disappointment at the announcement by taking to the Observer’s Facebook page to voice their views.
One resident said: “That’s a shame, would be lovely for something like this in the area. It would have benefited so many local businesses.”
However another resident said: “Not surprised! The traffic problem needs sorting there before anyone will consider being there.”
Chris Brooks, Regeneration Manager at Wychavon District Council, said: “We’d love to see Diggerland in Wychavon and will continue to work with them to try and identify a suitable site.”
In a statement, Diggerland said: “Unfortunately due to unexpected and unforeseen circumstances beyond our control, the Diggerland Worcestershire site that was planned for opening at The Valley in Evesham has been withdrawn.
“We are working with Worcestershire County Council to find suitable land.
“It is unlikely that a new park in the Midlands will be open this 2017 season. We sincerely apologise for any inconvenience caused.”
