A new chapter opens on the history of the legendary Tivoli Amusement Park in the heart of Benalmádena. As part of a large-scale urban development project, an agreement has finally been reached between the Tremón real estate development group and the local government, paving the way for the park to reopen. Covering 130,000 square meters, this ambitious project not only includes the revival of the amusement park but also the construction of a modern shopping center and two hotels.
Read our former blogpost related to this topic
The History and Current Status of Tivoli Amusement Park
Once one of Costa del Sol’s most visited attractions, Tivoli Amusement Park now stands abandoned after closing its doors in 2020 due to financial difficulties. Over the decades, the park attracted more than 35 million visitors, but today, it is at the center of legal disputes while former employees fight for its revival.
The park’s history is closely linked to Rafael Gómez, whose involvement played a significant role in shaping its fate. Gómez was implicated in the Operación Malaya, a high-profile corruption scandal that investigated corruption cases within Marbella’s municipal leadership. In 2006, authorities arrested Gómez, which had a lasting impact on Tivoli’s future. Eventually, in 2007, Gómez sold the park to the Madrid-based Tremón real estate group.
After the acquisition, Tremón’s real estate speculation plans raised concerns, as former employees claimed the company’s goal was to replace the park’s attractions with residential developments. However, the new agreement ensures that the amusement park will remain and be completely revitalized, once again becoming one of the city’s most significant tourist and entertainment hubs.
The New Tivoli: Modern and Spectacular Developments
According to the agreement, the revamped Tivoli Amusement Park will return in full splendor, with not only its current area preserved but also further expansions. The local government emphasized that the park should not be reduced in size but rather offer even more entertainment opportunities. The project includes:
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Comprehensive renovation and modernization,
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New attractions and rides,
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Job opportunities for former employees,
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Tax incentives and financial support to ensure sustainable operation.
The Challenges of the Agreement and Successful Negotiations
For years, numerous efforts were made to save the park, but conflicting interests prevented progress. Initially, Tremón proposed reducing the amusement park to just 50% of its original size, but the local government’s persistent stance ultimately secured its full preservation.
One of the critical moments in negotiations arose when the company initially prioritized building the hotel and shopping center before reopening the amusement park. However, the local government firmly insisted that the amusement park be the first facility to open. Eventually, an integrated development plan was agreed upon, ensuring a balanced and sustainable execution of the project.
When Will the New Tivoli Open?
According to preliminary plans, the park is expected to welcome visitors within four years, although the exact date will depend on construction progress. The local government is committed to implementing the project as quickly as possible while ensuring its long-term sustainability and economic success.
Conclusion
The rebirth of Tivoli Amusement Park is not just a tourist attraction but is set to become one of Benalmádena’s most significant cultural and entertainment landmarks. The agreement is a major win not only for locals but also for tourists, as the park is once again poised to become an iconic destination. Over the next few years, the area will undergo a complete transformation, modernizing the once-legendary park and expanding it into a dynamic, multi-functional entertainment complex.
Residents of Benalmádena and Costa del Sol eagerly anticipate the return of Tivoli, ushering in a new era in Spanish amusement park entertainment.
