A MUCH-loved soft play centre located at the site of the former Cineworld in Runcorn has announced its sad closure.

Based at Trident Retail Park, Dizzy Dragons Soft Play has been a family favourite in Halton for the last decade.

However last night, the business took to its social media page to announce the shock closure of the soft play centre due to failed negotiations to renew its lease.

In a sad farewell message to their many loyal customers, the owners of the business said: “It's with a heavy heart that we share the news of Dizzy Dragons' upcoming closure on 22nd July 2024.

“For a decade, our beloved soft play centre has been more than just a business; it's been a vibrant part of the community. From birthday celebrations to everyday playdates, Dizzy Dragons has seen friendships blossom and children in the community grow.”

They continued: “The decision comes in the wake of an American investment company, owners of the Cineworld building, opting not to renew Dizzy Dragons' lease.

“Despite efforts to negotiate, their focus seems to be on larger leasing opportunities. Though it's not clear if any of these exist at this time.”

The owners went on to say how the pandemic was a major ‘hurdle’ for the business which left them ‘fighting’ financially with Covid-19 loans.

However, despite this the soft play centre powered through due to a ‘strong belief in the value our little soft play brought to the community’ and continued to stay open.

So it is no surprise that the shocking announcement of its closure has devastated residents, with many commenting on what a loss the centre will be to the community.

One mum commented on the post, saying: “Photos of my kids pop up on my timeline all the time of the great times we’ve had. My youngest is nearly 10 and I started bringing her from crawling until now.”

While another gutted customer added: “So sad, that it's another loss for the Runcorn community, my kids have always enjoyed attending the many parties we have been to at Dizzy Dragons and we will definitely enjoy the last party we'll attend in June. Wishing the staff lots of luck for their future.”

Stories of parents who have brought their children from being babies up until now a decade on have poured in on the Facebook page, showing how loved the business and the community it has created is.

The business shared its space with popular cinema chain Cineworld up until October last year, when the chain announced its closure of the Runcorn venue – another major blow to the area.

Reflecting on the years of success, Dizzy Dragons’ owners added: “As we bid farewell, we reflect on the importance of supporting local businesses and the spaces that bring us together.

“It's a reminder of the impact such places have on the fabric of our communities.

“To all who have been a part of our journey, thank you for your support. Let's make these last month’s count and send off Dizzy Dragons with the celebration it deserves.

“Here's to ten remarkable years and the undeniable mark Dizzy Dragon himself will have left on the memories of the children in Runcorn.”

The soft play business confirmed it would be in touch with any customers who have party bookings set for after the closing date.