From Universal UK and Alton Towers developments to Disney announcements and major global expansion projects, it’s been another busy week across the theme park industry. Here’s your full round-up of the biggest stories from around the world.

Alton Towers Submit Plans for New Attraction

One of the biggest talking points this week came from Alton Towers, after plans were submitted for what is described as a “proposed walk through attraction building” within the resort.

Roller coaster and theme park skyline at sunset
Alton Towers plans emerge for a new walk through attraction in X-Sector.

While full details have not yet been revealed, many fans have already begun speculating that the project could be linked to future Scarefest expansion plans, particularly given the location and similarities to previous temporary Scarefest structures.

With Scarefest continuing to grow in popularity every year, it certainly feels like Alton Towers are investing further into the event experience beyond just rides.

Universal UK Continues Building Momentum

Excitement around the planned Universal UK project continues growing rapidly, with discussion across the industry showing no signs of slowing down.

Fans continue speculating about possible lands, attractions, hotels, entertainment offerings and what the arrival of Universal could mean for the future of European theme parks.

The project already feels like one of the most important developments the UK industry has ever seen, even this early into the process.

You can catch up on the latest developments in our recent Universal UK round-up here.

Disney Confirm 2026 Event Dates

Over in Orlando, Disney fans were given another look ahead to 2026 after dates were confirmed for the return of Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party.

The hugely popular seasonal event continues to be one of Walt Disney World’s biggest annual draws, combining exclusive entertainment, character experiences, themed food and Halloween overlays across Magic Kingdom.

Disney’s continued investment into seasonal experiences remains a huge part of the company’s current strategy, with special events becoming increasingly important across its parks worldwide.

You can read more in our full article here.

Chessington’s PAW Patrol Land Officially Opens

Over at Chessington World of Adventures, the brand new PAW Patrol themed land has officially opened to guests, bringing one of the resort’s biggest family expansions in years.

The new area includes themed attractions, interactive elements and character experiences aimed at younger visitors, with the land already proving popular with families.

The addition also highlights how parks around the world are increasingly investing in major IP-driven experiences to compete for family audiences.

You can see more in our read more about it here.

Regional Parks Continue Raising The Bar

While the biggest global names often dominate headlines, regional parks across Europe and North America also continue making significant investments into new attractions, themed areas and immersive entertainment.

From family-focused expansions to record-breaking coasters and upgraded seasonal events, the competition across the industry feels stronger than ever right now.

The gap between destination resorts and regional parks also continues shrinking, with many smaller parks now offering experiences that rival some of the industry’s biggest names.

The Theme Park Industry Feels More Competitive Than Ever

One thing that’s becoming increasingly clear is just how fast the global theme park industry is evolving.

With Universal continuing major expansion plans, Disney investing heavily into entertainment and seasonal offerings, parks across Europe expanding rapidly and regional resorts pushing larger, more immersive attractions, it genuinely feels like the industry is entering a completely new era.

For theme park fans, there has rarely been a more exciting time to follow what’s happening around the world.