Jonathan is the man to lead Dreamland
THE project director who will lead plans for a multi-million pound redevelopment of Margate’s Dreamland has been appointed.
Jonathan Bryant, who has run several museums, was named by the Dreamland Trust as their chosen man yesterday (Thursday, December 10).
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He said: “I am so excited to be involved with this project because I was amazed at the hard work and enthusiasm that the volunteers of the trust, headed by Nick Laister and Sarah Vickery, have put in over the last few years.
“Britain’s seaside heritage is an aspect of our history that has been neglected and I think Dreamland will correct that.”
Mr Bryant, 57, who managed the award-winning Henley River and Rowing Museum and directed the Thinktank Science Centre in Birmingham.
He said: “I have worked on a number of heritage projects in the past but too many museums take themselves too seriously. I like this project because it is rooted in fun.
“I also believe a heritage project like this needs to be run as a business that stands on its own two feet, and that means making a place that people want to go to and will be willing to part with money to visit.”
He is not the only one who is excited about his new job – his six-year-old daughter Ella is looking forward to coming to Margate too.
Mr Bryant said: “When we came down to see the site for the first time, Ella learnt to roller-skate along the seafront. Since then she’s been saying Margate’s a great place and can’t wait to come back.”
Mr Laister, chairman of the trust, said: “Jonathan has a reputation for action and for successfully bringing forward first-class heritage attractions delivered with commercial and creative flair.
“With Jonathan’s excellent track record, I am sure that we will be able to deliver a Dreamland that Margate can be proud of.”
The trust has also appointed Jan Leandro as audience development officer and Graham Ward as project archivist, both of whom start in January 2010.
3 Comments
by rob, Winterton N Lincs ex strood
Thursday, January 07 2010, 10:11PM
“I to have fond memories of Dreamland in the early 70s. I won a toy Handgrenade in hook-a-duck. And then lost it. They dont make toys like that any more.”
by daniel lister, eastborune
Thursday, January 07 2010, 6:56PM
“hey what great news when will the opening date be/ planned for cant wait to come along”
by Mark, China
Thursday, January 07 2010, 3:21AM
“Well this is good news for Thanet - Let's hope once and for all that the project is planned well. I lived in Margate several years ago and despite the fact I live in China now I still consider Margate to be my home. I remember the Golden years of Dreamland and the fun times I had in my youth. The many Journeys inside the water tubs that took me along an enchanted dark twisting underground water path, one surprise after an other. I remember throwing the wooden hoops at the bottles trying to hook the neck of the bottle in order to win a gold fish. I remember pushing the penny slot machines to make one coin fall against another coin in order to win some pocket money - Often the alarm on the machine would ring and we would all run away......ahhhhh the care free days of our youth. On a serious note I hope that the project goes well and that the money is enough to actually finish the project on time in a professional way. Actions speak loader than words and time will reveal all. Keep the entrance fee at a reasonable price and I am sure the concept will be a Hit with all. Let's all hope too that this will create JOBS & more JOBS - With fantasy - Willingness and naturally money margate could become the Las Vegas of the UK and in fact a Hot spot once again as an important International Holiday spot. Happy 2010 Margate”