The opening day of Alton Towers’ newest attraction, the Toxicator ride, took an unexpected turn when the ride had to be evacuated due to a water pipe leak nearby. Thrill-seekers who flocked to the theme park near Stoke-on-Trent on the first day of the 2025 season were eager to experience the excitement of the Toxicator, which was unveiled as ‘Project Ocean’ earlier in the year.
Located in the Forbidden Valley section of the 910-acre site, the Toxicator is the highest ride of its kind, towering at 78ft. What sets this ride apart is the fact that it is the only top spin in the world elevated above ground level, providing spectators with a unique vantage point to watch the action unfold from underneath. The anticipation was high as rollercoaster fans eagerly lined up to be among the first to ride the Toxicator and experience its thrilling spins and twists.
However, their excitement was put on hold when a brown liquid was spotted leaking at the entrance to the ride, prompting a temporary closure. Eyewitnesses at the scene initially speculated that it might be sewage, but park officials clarified that it was actually a burst pipe nearby that caused the issue. The park quickly sprang into action, pausing the ride for a cleanup operation to address the leak. Fortunately, guests were allowed back on the ride in less than an hour, alleviating any concerns about the safety of the attraction.
The incident prompted an evacuation of the ride area, leading some to humorously dub it a ‘toxic incident’ in reference to the ride’s name. Alton Towers responded to inquiries from guests on social media, explaining the situation and expressing regret for any inconvenience caused. They assured fans that the ride would not reopen that day and advised them to stay tuned for updates on the Alton Towers Resort App.
Despite the unexpected hiccup on its opening day, the Toxicator has already garnered comparisons to the former Ripsaw ride, an old favorite at the park. However, Alton Towers officials were quick to emphasize that the Toxicator offers a completely different experience, promising to thrill daredevils with its intense spinning maneuvers and unique suspended design over a pool of toxic extra-terrestrial sludge.
Once fully operational, the Toxicator is expected to accommodate over 500 riders per hour, adding to the excitement and adrenaline rush of the Forbidden Valley, described by the park’s website as a battleground of otherworldly aliens, suspicious scientific experiments, and military might. As visitors eagerly await the reopening of the ride, the Toxicator promises to deliver an unforgettable experience for all who dare to take on its thrilling twists and turns.