Theme park makes U-turn on disabled pass after backlash

Plans to restrict access sparks apology and rethink pledge

- Ben Hurst

ALTON Towers has reversed its controversial decision to restrict access to its disability queuing system at the theme park.

Owner Merlin Entertainments made the decision after a backlash from people with autism, ADHD and anxiety.

The business had intended to introduce stricter eligibility criteria for its Ride Access Pass (RAP), which offers a non-queuing alternative for those unable to wait in lengthy lines.

Under the proposed changes, half-term visitors who solely experienced 'difficulty with crowds' would no longer have been eligible.

The policy would also apply to Merlin's other sites at Chessington World of Adventures and Legoland Windsor.