Devastated theme park fans are experiencing a rollercoaster of emotions this week after it was announced a beloved 100-year-old funfair was being demolished. Now just days later, it has been revealed that a brand new "seasonal one" is set to open. Coney Beach Amusement Park in Porthcawl, South Wales, welcomed generations of thrillseekers before shutting its gates for the final time in October 2025.

Coney Beach had become a landmark location for the people of Porthcawl after it first opened to the public just after the First World War. Now the sound of bulldozers and demolition work will replace the excited squeals of fairground crowds as the site is set for a complete rebuild. A mixed-use redevelopment in the area is expected to feature a new housing estate, retail business facilities, a new primary school, and a number of recreational and leisure opportunities.

But all is not lost for funfair fans as Bridgend council announced that Porthcawl was set to get another fair this year as part of the plans to regenerate the waterfront area of the town.

WalesOnline reports the new venue Fun Land Porthcawl, operated by Studt's Events, is set to open within weeks at Salt Lake on the Eastern Promenade.

The council said the funfair will be set up in time for Easter and will remain in place throughout the summer season.

Studt's Events said Fun Land will be open daily from Saturday, March 28 to Sunday, April 12 and then will be open for weekends and school holidays "throughout the season".

Entry to the fair will be free, with rides operated by tokens which will be available to buy. As well as the funfair rides, Studt's said there will be free event days and "gigantic" fireworks displays.

"As a family-run business with a long heritage in the funfair and events industry, we have extensive experience in delivering both small community attractions and larger-scale events," said Henry Studt, of Studt's Events.

"We are genuinely delighted to be bringing a family funfair to Porthcawl and are looking forward to playing a positive part in the town’s seasonal offer for residents and visitors."

The council said Fun Land is designed to be "accessible and inclusive" and will be staffed by professional stewards. "With ample on-site parking, a secure fence will help ensure access is carefully managed, and arrangements are in place to help keep the fair clean and free of litter," the announcement from the council added.

Fun Lane will share the Salt Lake site with the NoFit State contemporary circus, which will also be in the town from April 11 to 19.