Traders 'really happy' after holiday park sale

Independent business owners based at a holiday and retail park bought out of administration say the future is "very bright" following the take over.

Stonham Barns Holiday Park, in Suffolk, called in administrators from FRP Advisory and was put up the for sale back in February due to financial pressures.

But the complex is set to remain after being purchased by Cosgrove Leisure Parks UK, owners of a number of holiday and residential parks.

The sale had raised concerns over the future of the complex's leisure and retail facilities, which have welcomed the news of the takeover.

And managing director Patrick Cosgrove said the park was set to "reach new heights" following the deal.

Luke Hughes, who runs the Legends Sports Bar and the garden centre, said he was "really happy" with the new owners and it was a "big relief".

"We've had a few meetings with the new owners and they are really supportive of what we do and want to help us move forward," he said.

"They seem really nice people who know what they are doing and are keen to get behind all independent retailers, so it's going to be a massive difference."

Glen Wade, who runs Glen's Collectables Shop and has been at the site over a year, said while the last few months had felt like "entering the unknown", the administrators had been confident of finding a good buyer who would take it from "strength to strength".

"We have spoken to the new owners a few times and they're very, very upbeat that they're going to be improving the park and spending money, which is great news.

"So, I'm very confident about the future."

Josh Cantwell, a manager at the Stonham Barns Golf Park, felt people who may have been put off visiting when it was under administration, would soon return.

"I would imagine we'll probably see a little bit of a jump in the summer holidays of people coming back up again and there'll be more people around, which will be nice.

"There's been a bit of a question mark for the last few months, but people know where they stand now."

Cosgrove Leisure Parks UK officially acquired the complex, which boasts a wide range of amenities and recreational activities and hosts about 30 events, on 29 June.

Managing director Patrick Cosgrove said he was "delighted" to have added Stonham Barns to his portfolio and would look to "introduce fresh ideas and improvements".

"The vision is to build on the park's existing strengths and create even more unforgettable moments for visitors," he said.

"Stonham Barns Park is a heritage venue with so much to offer guests and visitors which has a place in the hearts of so many people.

"The community will benefit from increased employment opportunities and a boost in tourism, as the reputation of this Suffolk gem continues to grow."

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