HomeBusinessA wildlife park in Sussex is growing after acquiring a nearby bouncing...

A wildlife park in Sussex is growing after acquiring a nearby bouncing centre.

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A family-focused zoological park in East Sussex has purchased a local trampoline venue as part of its regional growth strategy.

This deal follows the company’s opening of an Amazon-themed soft play centre in Tunbridge Wells during the previous year.

The bounce park had been running under its former ownership until recently, when staff marked the handover together with Locate East Sussex.

Ollie Smith, chief executive at Drusillas, said this purchase enables the company to draw on almost thirty years of expertise in family leisure to create another unique recreational spot for people across East Sussex.

Urban Jump has become a popular venue for birthday parties, rainy day activities, and adults who want coffee while their youngsters play or a few minutes of peace.

The venue will initially stay as it is, though the company intends to shut it temporarily in June for refurbishment to ensure it stays exciting and fun.

The aim is to keep the features that visitors love while making improvements that will bring Urban Jump up to a great standard.

The team looks forward to greeting visitors and starting an exciting new chapter for Drusillas.

The updated space will showcase Drusillas’ characteristic jungle-themed interior design, complete new branding, and further visitor improvements.

Richard Hand, who previously owned Urban Jump, said they set up the business almost ten years ago, and developing it into its current state has been a major accomplishment that makes him very proud.

The enterprise has been a huge part of his life, so seeing it move forward with Drusillas is satisfying.

They have the know-how, passion, and vision the company needs, and he is certain it is now in very good hands.

Mr. Hand thanked all those who helped Urban Jump grow.

He said he is very grateful to everyone who came along for the ride—his employees, customers, and supporters.

Getting here has genuinely been a team effort, and he is happy with what they achieved together.

Since acquiring Drusillas Park in 1997, the Smith family has invested significantly, making it one of the most popular family destinations in the area.

The trampoline venue is the family’s third business venture, after the zoo and the Amazon Adventure centre in Tunbridge Wells.

It represents the second site beyond the main zoo in their growing portfolio.

Urban Jump first opened its doors in 2016 at Ghyll Road Industrial Estate in Heathfield, with space for more than 150 visitors, featuring over 50 trampolines, a dodgeball court, and a foam pit.

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