Zip World has unveiled a new rollercoaster at its Zip World Tower attraction in the Cynon Valley.
It launched Zip World Tower, at the former Tower Colliery site in Hirwaun in April with zip wire attractions which has already welcomed over 10,000 visitors and created 56 new jobs. Its new attraction, Tower Coaster, is creating a further 25 jobs
The industrial style toboggan rollercoaster has a one kilometre track and can reach speeds of up to 25mph.
Zip World Tower is the first venture in South Wales for Gwynedd-based Zip World.
Its founder Sean Taylor said: “Over the past couple of months, it’s been fantastic to see this new chapter in the Tower Colliery story and the excitement Zip World Tower has created in the local community and beyond.
"The Welsh tourism sector is bouncing back after going through some really tough times and it’s been incredible to see people come together to create special memories at our sites across the country once again.
“As we continue to grow our brand, we have big ambitions to keep investing in our sites to push the limits and further establish them as the best adventure locations in the world. The Tower Coaster is a result of lots of hard work by the team and we can’t wait to see you all there.”
On expansion plans Mr Taylor is currently in talks with councils in England, Scotland, and Ireland. Devon is the leading contender for the next Zip World site and the first outside of Wales.
He said he has four or five expressions of interest a week., including from locations such as Saudi Arabia, Dubai, the Mediterranean and the Far East.
He added: “We don’t want 35 Zip World sites in the UK. We want to create probably eight to 10 world-class destinations in key regions of the UK, the prerequisite being iconic areas you get a wow in.
“I’m incredibly confident of where we’re going. We offer something different from an amusement park. And, I think it’s generally a pleasurable journey to get to us, which helps.
“Having that world-class experience, and having a great team with the pure focus to keep you safe and give you a great time.”
