Former Funworld owner questions viability of new amusement park

FORMER Durban Funworld owner Nic Steyn has weighed in on the proposed Durban Amusement Theme Park, offering a reminder that thrills don't come cheap, especially when the machinery isn't properly maintained.

- ZAINUL DAWOOD

AN ARTIST'S impression of the proposed Durban Amusement Theme Park along the Durban beachfront. Former Funworld owner Nic Steyn voices concerns about the project's financial projections and sustainability. | Supplied

(Supplied)

Reacting to Wednesday's announcement of the park, planned for the old Funworld site and set to open in 2027, Steyn suggested that excitement alone won't keep the rides running.

Acknowledging that his comments may not earn him any free tickets with the developers, he nonetheless urged them to rethink the project, warning that long-term success depends as much on maintenance budgets as it does on big ideas.

The Durban Amusement Park will introduce a globally benchmarked collection of attractions, including:

· Lighting Roller Coaster: a neon-lit 500m track reaching speeds of up to 86km/h.

· Disco 24 and Vertical Swing: high-adrenaline signature rides.

· A 1500m2 Virtual Reality Theme Park featuring more than 160 interactive games and global e-sports activations.