‘I bought the theme park I loved growing up’
I bought the theme park I loved growing up
For James Mellors, the idea of owning a theme park was once a childhood fantasy. Last year, when Lightwater Valley became available for purchase, the Mellors Group director saw an opportunity to turn that dream into reality. “My auntie and uncle lived in Dinnington, so they used to take us there for a day out,” he recalls. “We’ve been to the park over the years, and now it’s wonderful to say it’s ours and consider the possibilities.” The North Yorkshire attraction, which opened near Ripon in 1969, once boasted the world’s longest rollercoaster, the Ultimate, a title it held from 1991 to 2000. After its dismantling in 2023, the park shifted its focus to younger visitors, under 12 years old.
Mellors acquired another theme park, Fantasy Island, in Ingoldmells, in 2016. However, he has always had a particular fondness for Lightwater Valley. “If you picture it as something resembling a Disneyland, that’s the direction we’re heading,” Mellors says with a laugh. “We’re realistic though—we don’t have Disney’s budgets or the same cartoon character support. It’s tough to meet the vision’s demands, but we’re full of ideas to maximize the space.” The park recently launched its Spinning Racer rollercoaster as part of a “new era” initiative. “We needed to act swiftly to make progress this year, so introducing a coaster was a priority,” he explains.
A Shift in Focus
Lightwater Valley’s transformation has been significant. “It’s changed a lot, and I think it missed out on the investment it required,” Mellors notes. “When I think back to the Ultimate or the Rat—the first and only underground rollercoaster built in 1987—those were unique experiences people hadn’t seen before.” He believes the previous owners leaned too heavily toward a younger demographic. “The 12 and unders still have parents in their 20s, 30s, and 40s who want to enjoy the park too.”
Mellors acknowledges the financial hurdles. “Running a large site means paying substantial land rent. Plus, these big rollercoasters need a lot of power and maintenance, which adds hidden costs.” He adds, “Entrance fees must cover everything else, but we’re passionate about this business. As long as you enjoy what you do, you never feel like you’re working a day in your life.” With rising fuel prices and families tightening their budgets, Mellors remains hopeful for summer crowds. “You can’t get this kind of experience online, so if people want to spend time with their families, theme parks will always have a place.” Listen to highlights from North Yorkshire on BBC Sounds, catch up with the latest episode of Look North.
