Fantasy Island, a major tourist attraction in Ingoldmells near Skegness, is scaling back its operations during off-peak periods due to mounting operational costs and economic pressures. While the theme park will remain open daily throughout the summer, it will now close on Mondays and Tuesdays during quieter seasons.

The business cited rising wage obligations, higher electricity bills, and shifting consumer spending habits as key drivers behind the decision. The timing coincides with recent changes to employer national insurance contributions introduced in April, which many coastal and tourism-related businesses say have intensified financial strain.

This move reflects broader concerns in the UK tourism and hospitality sector, particularly for seasonal businesses in coastal areas. Local operators have reported reduced staffing levels, a drop in visitor spending, and an increase in closures and sales of hospitality properties.

Industry leaders are calling for targeted government support to protect jobs and maintain the viability of coastal attractions, which are vital to regional employment and economic activity.

Grimsby Ice Rink is undergoing a major refurbishment thanks to a £150,000 investment secured by the community group managing the facility. The funds, raised through a combination of local fundraising efforts and financial reserves, will cover critical infrastructure upgrades to keep the 50-year-old venue operational.

The refurbishment project, due to begin on 31 July and expected to last around a month, includes a full replacement of the rink’s ageing barrier system and the installation of a more energy-efficient chiller unit. The work aims to extend the lifespan of the facility, ensuring continued access to ice sports in the region.

The project is led by Grimsby Ice Rink Community Group, which took over operations in 2017 after the site faced closure. In addition to structural repairs and general maintenance, the group has ambitions to eventually develop a new ice rink, thereby future-proofing skating and ice sports locally.

4D Capital Partners has acquired Hepworth Clay, the UK’s last remaining producer of vitrified clay drainage systems, in a move that signals renewed investor interest in vertically integrated manufacturing assets.

The Yorkshire-based firm, formerly part of Orbia subsidiary Wavin, operates across two production sites totalling over half a million square feet. Its operations span the full value chain, drawing raw materials from its own 18-million-tonne clay reserves, an increasingly rare advantage in UK industry. Alongside its core drainage systems, Hepworth also produces terracotta components for flue and chimney ventilation.

The acquisition positions Hepworth as a standalone business under private equity ownership, with 4D Capital expected to focus on expanding its capacity, modernising operations, and driving long-term value through operational independence.

The deal was supported by advisers including Quantuma, Shoosmiths, Dickson Minto, K3, and Ford Campbell Freedman.