First images of Blackpool Pleasure Beach's Icon rollercoaster revealed - and it looks terrifying
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Blackpool Pleasure Beach's new rollercoaster Icon is one of the most highly-anticipated rides opening in UK theme parks this spring - and now fans can get a sneak peek of what to expect.
New behind-the-scenes images of the construction offer thrill-seekers a glimpse of the double-launch rollercoaster with its 82ft drops, terrifying tunnels and plenty of loops and swerves.
Blackpool Pleasure Beach had previously confirmed that it would be 'interacting' with other attractions at the theme park - and images show that it does indeed pass right through 'The Big One'.
The park is currently closed for winter, but its doors reopen on Saturday 10th February, although the rollercoaster itself won't be open to the public until spring.
(Image: PA)
Blackpool Pleasure Beach managing director Amanda Thompson told PA: "This is a key milestone in the build which marks the first in a series of thrilling interactions to guarantee riders a truly exhilarating experience.
"What we've achieved so far is impressive to see and a credit to all involved."We're looking forward to visitors getting their very first glimpse of Icon when our doors open on February 10."
(Image: PA)
Icon is one of the theme park 's biggest investments to date, costing around £16.25million.
Although this is the first time we've had a real look at the rollercoaster, Blackpool Pleasure Beach has previously teased fans with CGI videos recreating what a ride on Icon will actually entail.
It looks like the stuff of any adrenaline junkie's dreams.
For a start, the rollercoaster 'interacting' over 15 times with the park's other rides during the two-and-a-half minute journey, by powering through, over and around some of Blackpool Pleasure Beach's biggest attractions including The Big One.
Riders will be able to experience the same levels of acceleration felt by Formula 1 drivers - the rollercoaster reaches speeds of up to 80 miles per hour.
(Image: Blackpool Pleasure Beach)
The logo invites guests to 'dare to ride', with a red Japanese emblem and logo symbolising speed.
It's a particularly exciting coup for Blackpool Pleasure Beach, as Icon will be the UK's first ever double launch rollercoaster : visitors will be propelled at high speed not only at the start of the ride, but for a second time halfway through for an extra burst of adrenaline.
"Icon is going to be one of the most talked about, iconic rollercoasters of the future," said Blackpool Pleasure Beach's Managing Director Amanda Thompson OBE of the name choice. "The name speaks for itself as it will be one of the most iconic rides on the planet.
(Image: Blackpool Pleasure Beach)
(Image: PA)
"This is Blackpool Pleasure Beach’s biggest investment to date and will have a real impact on the town and region as a whole."
Rollercoaster enthusiasts still have a while to wait before they can test out the ride, which is set to open in spring 2018.
The project kicked off in December 2016, as the rollercoaster was manufactured in Germany.
Building has already seen over 5500 tonnes of soil excavated, not to mention the 8,000 metres of concrete piles and steel tubes driven into the ground.