Overview

• Fantasy Island has shifted to a five-day schedule and shorter daily hours after its annual power bill jumped from £600,000 in 2022 to over £1 million
• The attraction reduced its seasonal workforce by roughly 15% and faces a £400,000 National Insurance increase linked to Chancellor Rachel Reeves’ wage policy
• Local traders along Skegness esplanade report weaker spending despite peak-season weather and caravan bookings have slumped as pensioners curb visits following winter fuel payment cuts
• Reform UK deputy leader Richard Tice warned that higher National Insurance risks a “double whammy” on public finances and could push unemployment above its four-year high of 4.6%
• A government spokesperson defended its pro-business credentials, citing support including small-business NI relief, business rates exemptions for 250,000 properties and a 25% corporation tax cap