GQEBERHA -The Kings Beach site that has been home to Playland for more than 25 years is open to applications from potential operators wanting to provide attractions or entertainment during the upcoming festive season.

The development follows Playland’s announcement last month that it would not return to Gqeberha for the 2026/2027 December season, to the disappointment of residents who have made memories there across generations.

Playland said a significant increase in its lease had made it financially unviable to continue.

Lease increase ends Playland’s Kings Beach run

“This decision has been heartbreaking to make, but due to the significant increase in the lease amount, it is unfortunately no longer financially viable for us to continue,” Playland announced in a social media post.

The amusement park thanked its customers, vendors and staff for their support over more than 25 years.

“Thank you for every visit, every smile, every season and for the love and support you’ve shown us over the past 25 years.”

Transnet Eastern Cape acting regional head Phillip Zondo confirmed that Transnet owns the Kings Beach property.

However, the company declined to disclose what Playland had paid under its previous lease or what the proposed lease fee was for the 2026/2027 season.

“Please note that this information is confidential and forms part of the private arrangements between the landlord and the tenant,” Zondo said.

“As such, we are not in a position to disclose or discuss the details with third parties.”

Site remains available for festive season

Zondo said the site had successfully hosted a number of events and continued to receive bookings for future activities.

While there is no replacement operator at present, Transnet said it welcomed applications from interested parties wanting to lease the area and provide attractions or entertainment during the festive period.

The news has prompted an outpouring of nostalgia from residents.

“We are going to miss seeing you this year. It won’t feel like Christmas,” one Facebook user commented.

Another said it would be strange driving along the beachfront during the festive season without Playland.

“We drove along the beachfront today and I said how weird it’s going to be in a few weeks when we hit festive season and there is no Playland there.”

Residents reflect on 25 years of memories

Another resident urged Playland to find another location, saying: “We don’t have much to look forward to in a December holiday.”

For another, the memories span generations.

“When I was a little girl, the setup was at the Showground years ago…. I took my children to Summerstrand for rides and up until last year my grandchild. This year you will be missed,” the resident wrote.

For now, the future of the Kings Beach site remains open.

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