Bear Grylls-inspired activity centre to close

A £20m activity centre in Birmingham inspired by explorer and TV presenter Bear Grylls is to close on 11 December.

The Bear Grylls Adventure, based at the National Exhibition Centre (NEC), offers 11 experiences including a 65ft-tall high-rope course and shark dives.

The closure is due to "commercial challenges" and lasting financial effects following the coronavirus pandemic, according to a statement on the centre's website.

"The decision to close the attraction has not been taken lightly," it said.

The site is run by Merlin Entertainments, which also runs the city's Sea Life Centre and Cadbury World and theme parks including Alton Towers.

In the statement, the company said a contributing factor had been the site's temporary closure during the pandemic.

"This is the right commercial decision which enables us to prioritise our other Midlands-based attractions."

It added that it had examined "all other viable options".

About 1,000 marine animals including sharks, rays, and tropical fish will be re-homed to the nearby National Sea Life Centre Birmingham, as well as other UK Sea Life sites.

The company added that staff would be supported over the coming weeks, including advice on roles at other attractions across the Merlin group.

Guests with pre-booked tickets before 11 December should visit as normal, and those with bookings after the closing date should request a refund.

"We are proud of the positive impact The Bear Grylls Adventure has had on thousands of children and families that have visited over the last six years, showing guests first-hand the power of immersive activity in escaping the ordinary, and how adventure is for everyone," it said.

"We want to thank our amazing team and guests who have made this time so memorable."

The BBC has contacted the NEC group for comment.

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