Sherlock May Come Life At New London Theme Park
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These are some of the rides you might find at the BBC-inspired theme park in the works for London.
The British broadcaster’s commercial arm, BBC Worldwide, has struck a deal with developers that will allow the park to feature its programs and stars.
Park developer London Resort Holding Company has a separate agreement with Hollywood studio Paramount Pictures that gives it access to blockbusters like “Mission: Impossible,” “Star Trek” and “The Godfather.”
That means some of the BBC’s most popular shows like Doctor Who and Sherlock could appear alongside big names from Tinseltown. Global audiences also love the “Dancing with the Stars” franchise — known as “Strictly Come Dancing in the U.K.” — as well David Attenborough’s wildlife documentaries.
Gates to the “London Paramount Entertainment Resort” are due to open it 2020. It promises water and adrenaline rides, plus entertainment shows and other attractions.
London Resort director David Testa said the theme park will combine the “glamor of Hollywood with the best of British culture.”
“The BBC has played an instrumental role in shaping the British entertainment industry for nearly a century, creating some of the most iconic and cherished characters on TV and radio,” said Testa.
The company hopes to attract up to 15 million visitors a year to the site near London. The park will rival Euro Disney in Paris, which has struggled in recent years as the economic crisis crimped visitor numbers. In October owner Walt Disney was forced to lead a billion euro ($1.2 billion) refinancing of the park operator.
