Since the news broke last week that Pontins in Camber has closed its doors “with immediate effect” the National press and social media sites have been buzzing with speculation as to the future of the holiday complex. Rye News has covered various stories on Pontins in recent times: the poor standards of accommodation and cleanliness, the traffic problems associated with the summer season at Pontins and the annual Rhythm Riot and Rockabilly Rave which ironically this year celebrated its 25th anniversary.
Many of us witnessed the cavalcade of classic cars which drove from Pontins to the station carpark recently, a great day for Rye and local businesses but as you can imagine, since news of the closure broke the phones have been ringing off the hook and emails have been coming in thick and fast to the offices of Rhythm Riot who are immediately exploring other options for a suitable venue for next year. A message on their website states: “Please be assured that if you have already booked with us, all payments are safe and will be transferred to the new event or refunded in full. If you have sent a message that needs a reply, please bear with us. We will get back to you soon. Thank you for all your kind messages of support. We’re looking forward to seeing you all again soon.”
Robin, Colette & Jerry
It is not currently known why Britannia chose to close its doors, given that the company posted record pre-tax profits of £33.3m for the 12 months to March 31, 2022, after falling to a loss of £9.5m in the prior year, while accounts filed to Companies House shows it achieved a turnover of £117.8m, up from just £38.4 million.
The Home Office has denied online rumours that Pontins has shut two of its holiday camps in order to house migrants. We understand the freehold of the site is in the ownership of Rother District Council.
There are obviously far wider and more serious issues to consider other than the future of a Rockabilly Rave but for those of us who enjoyed the spectacular collection of classic cars in the station carpark recently, savour the memories, you may not see them again anytime soon.
Image Credits: Nick Forman .
This issue has much wider impllications than the loss of one particular event, as popular as it was.
Local.people have lost their jobs
Seasonal workers the same. Then there is the very significant loss of the holiday makers who bring income to local shops, restaurants, pubs, bars, other events and venues in Camber and beyond. There is a strong hope that the site will attract another provider of holiday accomodation.
A considerable loss to the area from Camber to Dymchurch and Rye. Many businesses in Rye will be affected by the loss of valuable customers out to enjoy their holidays. Let’s all hope that it does not stand empty for too long A POP Festival with major bands/artists coming to the area might be an idea to Make good use of it! This would attract thousands. Rochester Council do this very successfully every year. Let’s see if Rother and District Council have the ambition to go for this type of event. Rye Jazz Festival has been very successful!