The long-awaited return of Tivoli World has been confirmed after years of delays, with the iconic amusement park set to reopen its doors once again. Located on the Costa del Sol, the beloved destination has been shuttered since September 2020, and its future was uncertain until recent announcements by local officials.
On Friday, February 21, 2025, Benalmádena's mayor, Juan Antonio Lara, is expected to sign an agreement with the Tremon real estate group, which has been tasked with redeveloping the park as both an amusement venue and a tourist-commercial complex. This momentous decision follows extensive negotiations, which began as early as 2023.
The redevelopment plan will be no small feat; it is slated to cost approximately €200 million, with hopes it will reinvigorate the local economy by creating numerous job opportunities. Plans for the new Tivoli World include not only the restoration and modernization of existing rides but also the construction of new attractions, commercial facilities, and even a hotel on the premises.
Originally inaugurated on May 20, 1972, by Danish entrepreneur Bernt Olsen, Tivoli World was inspired by the iconic Tivoli Gardens of Copenhagen. At its peak during the 1980s and 1990s, the park was famous for hosting numerous international artists and events, and it had become deeply embedded within the cultural fabric of the region.
Sadly, the park's fortunes began to wane as the new millennium arrived. After various ownership changes and financial struggles, it closed its gates—falling victim to pandemic-related financial issues and having accumulated considerable debt. The closure of Tivoli World was not just the loss of another attraction, but it also marked the end of cherished memories for countless families who visited over the decades.
Since its closure, the conversation around Tivoli World has been fraught with uncertainty, highlighted by the park's complicated history. The Tremon group acquired the park from Rafael Gómez, known as 'Sandokán', back in 2007 following his own financial misfortunes. The ensuing legal battles between Tremon and Gómez over ownership and sale disputes added another layer of complexity to the already fragile situation of the park.
Recent efforts by both the local government and Tremon have now brought renewed hope for the park's future. The renovation is expected to involve extensive work on existing rides—and the debut of several new attractions. Notably, the local council has made it clear they are committed to ensuring the park remains primarily aimed at providing recreational and leisure services to the community.
"The agreement is not just about reopening but revitalizing Tivoli World so it can serve as both a local and tourist attraction," said Mayor Lara during recent discussions concerning the future of the park.
The proposed plan requires the approval of local council's urban development regulations to allow for the integration of hotel facilities and shopping areas without conflicting with the existing park structure. While securing these approvals should not be overly contentious—since the Mayor's party holds the majority—there are still procedural steps to navigate, which may prolong the full realization of the project.
Despite years of challenges and the adverse impact of the economic crisis, those invested in the park's legacy—including former employees—have tirelessly advocated for its return. Some former workers, even during the park's closure, have continued maintenance efforts as they hold onto the dream of reopening.
Public sentiment has remained overwhelmingly positive, with residents and former visitors reveling at the thought of the park's revival. The town hall has acknowledged the historical significance of Tivoli World, particularly as it stands as one of the oldest amusement parks on the Costa del Sol.
Since the announcement of its impending reopening, excitement has been palpable. Plans not only envision bringing rides and attractions back to life but introducing new features catering to various demographics, ensuring its appeal is as broad as possible.
Currently, there is optimism surrounding the formal signing of the agreement and the subsequent phases of development. Following the agreement, the initial renovation phase will commence with the park expected to take two to three years before it reopens to the public.
The community’s eager anticipation of Tivoli World's revival encapsulates both nostalgia and hope. It also reinstates faith within the local economy, signaling potential growth and development not just for the park but for Benalmádena at large.
With the potential resurgence of Tivoli World, it clearly marks the start of new adventures and memories to be forged at this historic venue. The clock is ticking as local authorities and Tremon prepare to take the first significant steps toward restoring one of Benalmádena's most cherished attractions—laying groundwork for future generations to enjoy.