Pleasure Beach Resort in Blackpool, UK, has announced the reopening of its iconic S&S Space Shot tower ride, now rebranded as “Launch Pad,” scheduled for May 7, 2025. This refurbishment marks a significant milestone in the park’s ongoing efforts to modernize and enhance its attractions.
Originally introduced in 1997 as “PlayStation: The Ride,” the attraction has undergone several transformations, including a period as “Ice Blast.” The latest iteration, “Launch Pad,” features a comprehensive overhaul, both aesthetically and mechanically. The ride now boasts a vibrant blue and red color scheme, aligning with its new space exploration theme. A key component of the refurbishment is the installation of a new 200-foot pressure cylinder, designed to deliver more powerful launches and an intensified ride experience.
The new cylinder comprises five sections, each weighing approximately 1.9 tons, and operates at a pressure of 105 PSI. This enhancement increases the ride’s kinetic energy, providing riders with a more exhilarating ascent and moments of weightlessness. Karl Murphy, Director of Engineering at Pleasure Beach Resort, stated, “By increasing the PSI, we’ve increased the force, and therefore the acceleration of speed is greater, meaning riders will feel a huge difference and shoot to the sky with more power than ever before.”
The refurbishment project was primarily executed by the resort’s in-house team, with support from an engineer from S&S Worldwide, the ride’s original manufacturer. Amanda Thompson OBE, CEO of Pleasure Beach Resort, commented, “This year we are re-opening the park even earlier than usual in time for February half term, so our talented teams have had an even smaller window of time to execute something incredible. As usual, they have risen to the occasion, and incredible it certainly is.”
“Launch Pad” stands at 210 feet tall and accelerates riders to speeds of up to 80 mph, accommodating 12 riders per launch. The ride’s reopening is part of Pleasure Beach Resort’s broader initiative to revitalize its offerings and enhance guest experiences.
Image: Pleasure Beach Resort
