Dreamland park opens for summer

Most of the Dreamland rides are still running, operators say

The Dreamland theme park in Kent has opened for the summer in a temporary reprieve after its closure last year.

The Margate attraction, which first opened in the 1920s and is currently at the centre of a planning inquiry, re-opened on Saturday.

David Wallis, spokesman for ride operator Carousel Leisure said most rides were still running, including the Wild Mouse.

He said: "One or two have gone, but we fetched some in from travelling fairs."

"Apart from that, the park looks presentable with everything here - it's a good family park again."

He said a token system was in operation this year with most rides costing either 50p or £1.

Planning inquiry

This week campaigners fighting to save the park gave evidence to a planning inspector.

Campaigners say they want Thanet District Council to change the local plan to allow the site to remain as an amusement park instead of being redeveloped.

The council has said the planning inspector will be looking at using the site as an amusement park and also for other activities.

The Scenic Railway - the UK's only listed rollercoaster and the oldest in Britain - is still at the site.