Campaign launched to save much-loved West Sands Fun Fair at Seal Bay Resort in Selsey
A campaign has been launched to save the much-loved West Sands Fun Fair at Seal Bay Resort in Selsey after new owners Haven confirmed that the fair's operating contract will not be renewed.
Following Haven's decision, a petition titled 'Save West Sands Fun Fair from Closure' has been launched on Change.org, calling on the holiday park operator to reconsider its plans and allow the attraction to continue.
The petition highlights the fair's importance to the local community, describing it as much more than somewhere to enjoy rides and games, but a cherished landmark where countless childhood memories have been made.
It states: "West Sands Fun Fair is not just about rides and entertainment; it offers employment to local residents and draws visitors to our area, beneficially impacting our local economy. The discontinuation of this fair is not just the loss of entertainment but a cultural and economic blow to Selsey."
At the time of writing, the petition has attracted more than 1,000 signatures, with support continuing to grow.
Haven, which recently acquired Seal Bay Resort as part of its expansion, has confirmed that it intends to invest millions of pounds in the holiday destination over the coming years.
In a statement, a Haven spokesperson said: "We recognise the funfair's long history at Seal Bay and the enjoyment it's brought visitors over the years.
"This winter and in the coming years, Haven will be investing millions of pounds in Seal Bay to update its offering, creating a modern holiday destination which all our guests and owners will enjoy.
"As part of this evolution, we've decided not to renew the funfair operator's contract when it ends.
"We understand some people will be disappointed by this news, and we look forward to sharing more about our plans soon."
However, campaigners are hoping Haven will reconsider its decision and work with the local community to find a way of keeping the attraction.
The petition calls for Haven to open discussions with community representatives and reconsider its decision, exploring whether a solution could be found that would allow the fair to remain while also supporting the company's plans for the future of Seal Bay.
It also suggests that the funfair could continue operating while meeting appropriate safety standards, encouraging community involvement and complementing the wider development of the resort.
Those behind the campaign are hoping that growing public support will encourage Haven to reconsider its decision and recognise the importance of the funfair to generations of visitors and the wider Selsey community.
As Haven prepares to begin its investment in Seal Bay, campaigners will be hoping their voices are heard before the funfair's contract comes to an end.