Dream or nightmare?
Holidaymakers
JEZ and CHERYL O'CARROLL from Birmingham: Jez said: "We are thrilled to hear Dreamland is returning. I proposed to Cheryl on the Big Wheel here. It holds so many happy memories. It is sad to see it like this today.
"In the evenings the park was buzzing with such a great atmosphere. We came for a day trip but with Dreamland open we would bring our sons here for a longer stay."
Cheryl said: "I have been coming to Margate with my family since I was a baby. I loved the Scenic Railway and the Topsy Turvy house. Some of the attractions were white-knuckle rides like you get at modern theme parks. There was always something for everyone."
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Industry
GARY SMART is managing director of Harbour Park in Littlehampton, West Sussex and a member of British Association of Leisure Parks, Piers and Attractions (BALPPA). The Dreamland Trust visited Mr Smart's attraction during the preparation of its business plan.
Mr Smart said: "The rides will bring people but it is only a small part of how to make the park pay. You must think about secondary spend items like catering, indoor facilities and gift shops to keep people's interest and increase revenues.
"The trust will need to watch overheads very carefully. It needs to be flexible with staff and supplies according to seasonal demand. Weather is a key factor.
"We had more than 30 coaches turn up unannounced at the weekend and had to cater for them. You need to be prepared for that. If the trust gets the mix right then Dreamland has a lot to offer with all the memories people have from visiting in its heyday."
Staff
DAVE COLLARD worked as a brakeman and engineer on the Scenic Railway for more than a decade. He was one of the founder members of the Save Dreamland campaign.
He said: "I'm delighted as it was so devastating to see the Scenic Railway burn down after spending so long working on the ride. We started the campaign when the site's future was in doubt when Jimmy Godden announced plans to redevelop the site. There has been so much going on behind the scenes but it will be worth it when the park finally opens."
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