The former Seaton Jurassic building is set to reopen this spring as “Jurassic Discovery” after its purchase by Seaton Tramway was confirmed at the start of 2024. Building on the success of the Tramway’s dinosaur inspired events which have been popular with families the new attraction will initially open with a soft play area and café before expanding in the summer with an immersive dinosaur exhibition.
Seaton Jurassic – which is located next to Seaton Tramway’s station building – closed in September 2021 following the effects of the pandemic and since then has remain shut with decisions needed on its future. After negotiations Seaton Tramway have now concluded a deal to purchase the building and to reopen it, boosting the local economy and creating extra jobs.
Due to reopen in Spring 2024, the newly renamed “Jurassic Discovery” will first see a family friendly café and a soft play area designed for children aged 1-12. Seaton Tramway had purchased this soft play equipment from Pecorama (in nearly Beer) back in 2021 and it will now be used once again. Then by Summer 2024, the centre will unveil an immersive dinosaur exhibition which will feature state of the art animatronic exhibits from the Natural History Museum.
Jenny Nunn, CEO of Seaton Tramway, said: “The council’s decision marks a new era for Seaton and its visitors. Jurassic Discovery isn’t just an attraction; it’s a leap into the world of dinosaurs and prehistoric life. Our plans include a Dino-themed soft play area for the young explorers and a cutting-edge visitor experience that narrates the story of dinosaurs, their extinction, and their connection to our current environmental challenges. We are committed to creating an engaging, educational, and entertaining space that resonates with all age groups.”
East Devon District Council made an unanimous decision to agree to the freehold disposal of the Jurassic Centre to Seaton Tramway. Cllr Paul Arnott, Council Leader, said: “Handing over the keys to Seaton Tramway, and a fresh start for the stewardship of this crucial attraction, is a great privilege. I’d like to take this last opportunity to thank the many volunteers who gave their all to the centre before, and I’m sure they’ll join me in wishing Jenny and her team the very best for the future. The Jurassic Discovery Centre could not now be in better hands.”
Jurassic Discovery will promote the Jurassic Coast World Heritage Site and explore 65 million years and 95 miles of history. Seaton Tramway will be expanding their offering to schools and educational groups with the opening of the new attraction and are now developing new learning and activity sessions.
- A new website has been launched which will give updates on Jurassic Discovery – http://www.jurassicdiscovery.co.uk/
Whilst I welcome Seaton Tramway’s expansion in this area and adding a new string to their bow I can’t help but wonder if money is available for that should it not be spent on restoring the likes of Tram 7 or building more Trams? The summer holiday queues are now exceeding capacity by a long way.