Want to bookmark your favourite articles and stories to read or reference later? Start your Independent Membership today.
Already a member?
Log in
Chessington World of Adventures has been evacuated and forced to announce closure as police responded to an incident.
Metropolitan Police said it was made aware of a threat against the theme park on Sunday morning but assessed no security issues.
A Met spokesperson said: “We are aware of a threat made on the morning of Sunday, 8 November against a theme park in Chessington.
“The matter has been assessed, and no security issues have been identified. This is believed to be an isolated incident with no wider risk to the public.”
(FILE) The incident at Chessington World of Adventures Resort has been resolved (PA)
People on social media reported being turned away from the theme park on Sunday morning as they were evacuated from the premises. Images posted on social media at the resort show police at the scene.
The theme park put a statement on social media where they advised guests to go to Legoland in Windsor instead.
“Chessington World of Adventures Resort is currently closed. Guests due to visit today are advised that tickets are being accepted at LEGOLAND Windsor or, alternatively, you can contact our Customer Services team after 2pm today,” they said.
“We apologise for any inconvenience caused and will provide a further update as soon as possible.”
Delays continue on the A243 Leatherhead Road out of the theme park, between B280 Fairoak Lane and Barwell Business Park, due to ongoing roadworks.
The hotel is set to reopen on Monday, and the resort will reopen next weekend, The Independent heard from a spokesperson for Merlin Entertainments, which manages the theme park.
Merlin Entertainments spokesperson said: “Following a security incident earlier today, and in close coordination with the Metropolitan Police, we immediately implemented our well-rehearsed safety procedures and closed the resort as a precaution. The incident has now been resolved.
“The hotel will reopen tomorrow, Monday 9 November, and the Resort will reopen as planned on Saturday 14 November. The safety and wellbeing of our guests and staff remain our highest priority. We would like to thank our guests for their patience and understanding, and our teams for their swift response and support.”