Merlin Entertainments have confirmed that Alton Towers latest rollercoaster 'The Smiler', will reopen in 2016 season after injuring 16 people earlier in June.
Earlier on in the 2015 season, 16 people were left injured after 2 carriages collided causing 5 guests serious and life changing injuries. The Smiler has been closed ever since this tragic event occured on June 2nd, with a Health & Saftey investigation taking place since the accident.
A statement from Merlin Entertainments said "The investigation concluded that the incident was the result of human error culminating in the manual override of the ride safety control system without the appropriate protocols being followed.The investigation also identified areas where protocols and the training of employees should be improved. There were found to be no technical or mechanical problems with the ride itself."
This also followed by them stating that further improved safety measures have been placed on similar type of rides and attractions such as Sonic Spinball at Alton Towers Resort and Dragons Fury at Chessington World of Adventures, with them both being 'Multi-car coasters'.
Two female victims had to have their legs amputated due to the nature of their injuries, they have also vocally expressed that they would both like the ride closed for good after speaking on ITV's Good Morning show. Merlin Entertainments has also seen a high percentage of visitor loss since the incidient, mainly at Alton Towers but similar attractions such as Thorpe Park were also hit.
Alton Towers have also said in a statement that 190 jobs will be cut by the 2016 season. Although, Staffordshire County Council's leader believes with the improved safety measures, The Smiler will bring in a high amount of tourism and will continue contributing in the tourism sector.