Discussions NOT ongoing about Scarborough's Futurist, says Flamingo Land
Chief Executive, Gordon Gibb, says council leader, Steve Siddons, has not been in communication about the site.
Last updated 27th Jan 2022
It seems discussions have not been ongoing about the site of Scarborough's Futurist Theatre.
In a council meeting this week, leader Steve Siddons, asserted that several projects in the town were still being talked about - including the one on Foreshore Road.
He was responding to a question by Cllr. Derek Bastiman, leader of the Conservative group, after we put out a story of Cllr. Janet Jefferson, Cabinet Member for Corporate Resources, saying no progress has been made on Flamingo Land's plans for the site.
We reported how Cllr. Siddons said conversations were still being held with preferred bidder, Flamingo Land on the future of that site.
But, this is being disputed by the company.
Here is a statement from Flamingo Land Chief Executive, Gordon Gibb:
"Flamingo Land has not discussed our plans for the Futurist with Cllr. Siddons since shortly after he became Council Leader a number of years ago.
Unlike the other Council representatives (employed and elected) that had shared Flamingo Land's dream to deliver a world class entertainment facility to Scarborough, the new leader (Siddons) was not engaged, seemed dismissive and has never made contact with us since.
Cllr. Siddons' recent comments regarding the Scarborough Councils continuing work with Flamingo Land on proposals for the former Futurist site could not be further from the truth. I have spoken directly to The Council and told them that we will not work with Scarborough Council on our development plans with the Council as it is currently structured. We do not believe they have the understanding, knowledge, energy or imagination to make this project happen.
Reluctantly the Company has withdrawn its interest in Scarborough as a direct consequence which is, on a personal level devastating as I was brought up in Scarborough and looked forward to bringing a world class attraction to the town creating jobs, careers and prosperity for the area which would have undoubtedly followed."
Councillor Steve Siddons, leader of Scarborough Borough Council, said:
“While we have been in discussions with Flamingo Land as our preferred bidder for some time, there has never been a formal legal agreement between us for the site.
"Flamingo Land is therefore at liberty to withdraw its interest in developing the site at any time.
"Flamingo Land's decision opens up opportunities with alternative investors and we will continue to work up acceptable proposals.
"It is important to ensure whatever is eventually built on the site is appropriate for the location and adds value to the town."