The BBC is always looking for clever merchandising ideas to keep interest up for ‘Doctor Who’ and its other shows, but one a new one is the possibility of a theme park, which will feature two of the broadcasting channels most popular genre shows.
According to a report in Radio Times the BBC is is in talks with Paramount about licensing top BBC shows to a proposed new theme park with Sherlock, Doctor Who and Top Gear most likely to feature.
The BEEB is brainstorming ideas for a whopping £2bn theme park in Kent which could turn popular dramas such as Doctor Who and Sherlock into major attractions.
The commercial arm BBC Worldwide has inked a preliminary agreement over the use of its shows at the theme park and holiday resort, which is due to open in north Kent in 2020. Though unfortunately they cannot account for severe whether or rain. Which begs the question of whether these attractions will be outdoors or under shelter.
A BBC source said that the discussions were in the early stages but that hit shows including Doctor Who, Top Gear and Sherlock were all being considered as subjects for rides or other attractions at the park, which is backed by Hollywood studio Paramount.
Our traditional unpredictable whether aside. This move is not without merit. Earlier this year CBeebies’ Land opened as an attraction at Alton Towers, and has proved popular with parents and under-sixes alike.
The new park is to be built on the Swanscombe Peninsula in north Kent and is due to open by Easter 2020.
Stephen Davies, BBC Worldwide’s director of Live Events, said: “We’re always looking for opportunities to extend fans’ enjoyment of their favourite shows and the idea behind this resort is a really exciting way of celebrating the very special place the BBC has in British culture.”
A statement from the developers said that the resort will “combine the glamour of Hollywood with the best of British culture”.
Mike Bartok, executive vice president of licensing at Paramount – which makes Mission Impossible and Star Trek – added: “It is outstanding to be working with a globally recognised brand with such a rich, respected history.”
