Toy manufacturing giant Mattel delights children and children at heart as the £1.5m Mattel Play! family entertainment park is finally coming to Liverpool and it's just an hour's drive from Manchester!
The much-awaited first branded attraction of its kind in Europe is set to open in Spring 2016 and will feature Mattel's famous beloved characters such as Thomas & Friends, Bob the Builder and Fireman Sam.
According to a press release in Manchester Evening News, the new 13,000 square foot entertainment park installed in the Grand Hall at the Albert Dock will be operated by Heritage Great Britain plc, the group behind the famous tourist destinations Land's End and Snowdon Mountain Railway.
Why did Mattel chose Liverpool? "Liverpool is the perfect location and Heritage Great Britain the perfect partner for this new world-class attraction... our brands are known and loved by children around the world and the architectural splendour of Albert Dock provides the perfect backdrop for launching our first Mattel Play!" Julie Freeland, senior director for Global Live Events and Attractions for Mattel said.
Sue Grindrod chairman of the Albert Dock affirmed this move by Mattel, so as the Heritage Great Britain: "The investment made by Heritage Great Britain plc in Mattel Play! Liverpool is considerable... this attraction adds an exciting new dimension to the diverse and family-friendly offer at Albert Dock which is the north west's most visited tourist attraction." Grind rod adds, "We are confident that this addition will bring a positive impact on the wider waterfront."
So what is in store at Mattel Play Liverpool?
Freeland said that visitors can experience Thomas, Bob and Sam in many different ways. "This is a relatively new concept for us. We know this is going to be extremely successful and then we will plan to roll the centres out hopefully across the world." Apart from the interactive games, rides, and activities prepared, there will be a shop and a cafe as well as green screen experiences for the whole family to enjoy.
