Simon Thomason’s pass is still valid for 5 more months, time in which he can still come visit Legoland but only with a condition. His family has to announce his visit in advance. Furthermore Legoland will not renew the man’s annual pass.
Paula, Thomason’s sister, bought the annual pass last year for £60 after first explaining her brother’s condition to Legoland staff. His family deemed this policy rather unfair, especially considering the man’s condition. But they are not the only ones to think forbidding Thomason to play with the Lego and look at the models is unfair. Disability campaigners as well as other families have attacked the policy and accused Legoland of discriminating against disabled people. Others protested the fact that their childless relatives are now effectively banned from the attraction. Simon Thomason was offered a pass to alternative venues in the UK which are run by the parent group Merlin Attractions.
Legoland has enforced its policy to everybody over child protection fears. Besides Simon Thomason’s case there are many others. One such other cases is the case of 20-year-old Anthony Lewis with learning disabilities and his carer, who were also turned away. The man who has Williams Syndrome and the mental age of six was refused entry earlier this week when he tried to visit. When asked to comment about their policy Legoland’s spokesperson had the following to say:
“We make no apologies for this policy and believe it to be reasonable and appropriate, and one on which we make no exceptions. That is why we regularly host evening events specifically for adults in order to showcase specific attractions within the centre and these are very well attended. That said, we also very much appreciate the continuing appeal that LEGO has for all ages, and it has never been our intention to deny access to our adult fans, or cause distress to anyone.”
