New owners of Leo’s Play Centre, on Northgate, Newark, draw up big plans for future

A popular soft play centre in Newark is being taken over by a children’s entertainment business, writes Ellie Danemann.

Leo’s Play Centre, on Northgate, was the go-to place for family fun, soft play and children’s parties in the town.

Owners Tracy and Paul Benson have now sold the business and handed over the reins to Tim Dallison under his new business, Robin Hood Entertainment.

The play centre will continue to provide activities for children, as well as offering nights that cater for teenagers and adults.

“We are really really excited about it,” said Tim, a singer and entertainer from Mansfield.

“A new sensory room is being built as well as messy play, music sessions and typical soft play — we looked at what the area needed.

“For teenagers, there will also be nerf nights, fortnite parties and discos.

“We want to give kids somewhere to go.”

Tim, who hopes to give the venue a total revamp by adding play frames, foosball machines and air hockey tables, has signed a ten-year lease with the landlord.

He has who has hosted events and children’s mobile parties all around the country.

They are hoping to welcome families from May 17, coronavirus restrictions permitting.

“Until there are no restrictions, everything will be done in sessions,” Tim said.

“We’ll start with a 9 to 11 session and then have a half-hour break to clean the frames before opening up for another session.

“Everything will be done to government guidelines.

“As of right now, we will be able to open on May 17. People will be able to call us and message the Facebook page to book a session.

“Hopefully when there are no restrictions, people will want to turn up.”

The Robin Hood Entertainment team is inviting the people of Newark and surrounding areas to have their say on what they would like to see at the centre.

You can get in touch via their Facebook page Robin Hood Entertainment (@RobinHoodEnts).

Announcing their closure on Facebook, Leo’s owners Tracy and Paul wrote: “We will miss our time with you all and watching the children grow year after year and our chats with all of our regular customers (friends xxx).

“It’s now time to pass Leo’s on to a lovely couple who are full of energy and (have) lots of exciting ideas to entertain your children.

“We hope you all will continue to support and be as loyal to them as you were to us, and we would like to wish Timothy and Stacey all the best for their future at Leo’s.”