Holyrood says it will allow funfairs to return 'as soon as it's safe'

The Scottish Government says it will allow funfairs to reopen as soon as it is safe to do so.

It comes after the operator of Cadona's amusement park in Aberdeen hit out - amid claims its rides were forced to close due to coronavirus restrictions.

The company reopened on July 15, in line with other tourism businesses, and says it was later told by local environment health officers that it could keep operating - but to seek clarification on the rules from the Scottish Government.

According to Codona's, officials from Holyrood then said last night that several rides at the site had to close - because they were in the same category as a travelling funfair.

Some attractions, including the adventure golf and go karts, remain unaffected.

The company is now asking for a review of the decision - warning that almost 200 people could be made redundant if it is forced to stay shut.

Alfred Codona, from the company, said: "We find the decision to close our outdoor rides astounding, considering outdoor playgrounds are now open with no Covid-19 policies or procedures in place.

"Additionally indoor restaurants, cinemas, shops, shopping centres, indoor and outdoor bars are now open all over Scotland. And yet, our outdoor attraction with all the appropriate Covid-19 policies and procedures, inspected and approved, is instructed to close.

"We have requested the Scottish Government review this decision immediately or risk the future of a business which has been the mainstay of Aberdeen Beach for 50 years, leaving a gaping hole in the community and up to 180 people losing their jobs."

A Scottish Government spokesperson said: "We don’t want any business to remain closed, or open with restrictions in place, for a day longer than is necessary but public health is paramount. We will move to reopen Scotland’s funfairs, as soon as it is safe to do so.

"As we continue to ease lockdown measures and we see the tourism sector resume, it is imperative that the changes we make continue to suppress the virus.

"Throughout the process, we have made clear that not all changes in each phase will be implemented at once.

"Our priority is to keep people safe and we have issued updated guidance to reflect concerns around funfairs.

"We will continue to assess the situation and make a further decision when it is safe to do so."

An Aberdeen City Council spokesperson said: "All funfairs are to remain closed at present in line with Scottish Government regulations. 

"Aberdeen City Council remains committed to working with all businesses in Aberdeen to ensure that they can safely re open when government guidance allows."