Latest news with #urbanexplorers
BBC News
20-07-2025
- BBC News
Injunction stops explorers visiting Portsmouth's Spitbank Fort
An injunction to stop urban explorers visiting a historic fort has been Fort, between Portsmouth and the Isle of Wight, was originally built to deter a French invasion in the 19th Century and later converted into a luxury hotel before being sold in injunction granted on Wednesday prevents "anyone from climbing upon, or otherwise entering, occupying or remaining upon any part of Spitbank Fort" without Dare, partner at Steele Raymond representing the Hampshire fort's owner Fortify Solent, said the purpose of the order was to protect the site as well as keep people safe. "There've been quite a number of people accessing the fort, going over there by boat or by paddleboard, to film themselves wandering around outside and inside the fort and posting it on social media in order to generate likes and comments," said Ms property was not safe to get to, "not very safe to be in there, and if somebody were to get trapped inside it there's no mobile phone signal", she visiting the site had to break locks to get in, she added, saying the videos suggested the place was abandoned and people could just "wander in"."That's not true at all - it's private property," Ms Dare said."The comments that go alongside [the videos] are people saying 'we're gonna go too'… at that point you've got to do something." 'Thrilled' Ms Dare said the injunction meant anyone trespassing would automatically be in contempt of court and may be liable to criminal sanctions, adding her client was "thrilled" it had been granted."It's a relief, I think, that something has now been done to prevent people going across and using it," she said."It's a really cool building and it's been converted into this luxury hotel… you can see the fascination but at the end of the day it's private property." You can follow BBC Hampshire & Isle of Wight on Facebook, X (Twitter), or Instagram.
BBC News
14-07-2025
- BBC News
Consett Holly Lodge 'fully destroyed' in arson attack
A house which police described as an "amazing property" has been destroyed in an arson Lodge in Ebchester, Consett, which was empty at the time but had been home to a family for five decades, was gutted in a fire on Constabulary is asking the public to alert them of any videos circulating on social media of the blaze at the site, which they said was "popular with urban explorers".Officers confirmed no-one was injured in the blaze. A spokesman said: "The fire has fully destroyed this amazing property which was home to a family for over 50 years."He added the building had been deemed unsafe which "means that even the emergency services will not be able to enter the property". Follow BBC North East on X, Facebook, Nextdoor and Instagram.
Zawya
14-07-2025
- Automotive
- Zawya
MG ZS continues to set the standard for compact SUVs in Oman
Muscat: The next-generation MG ZS has quickly cemented its place as one of the most compelling compact SUVs in Oman. Since its debut, the all-new ZS has resonated deeply with urban explorers, young professionals, and design-forward families, delivering exactly what they need: style, performance, and substance in one smart package. More than just an upgrade, the new MG ZS represents a confident shift toward premium sensibilities, offering a design-led experience backed by intuitive tech and everyday practicality. The 12.3-inch infotainment screen, jet-wing-inspired console, and panoramic sunroof elevate every drive, while its MG Pilot ADAS suite ensures drivers stay protected and in control. Under the hood, the MG ZS continues to impress with two versatile engine options, a 1.5L engine with 112HP for daily ease and fuel efficiency & a 1.3L turbocharged variant with 168HP for those who want extra punch in city or weekend drives. Both variants offer three drive modes, giving drivers the flexibility to switch from relaxed cruising to responsive performance at will. Visually, the ZS commands attention. From the Hunter-Eye LED headlamps to the aerodynamic lines and 18-inch alloy wheels, it's designed to stand out, whether navigating narrow alleys in Muttrah or heading out on a coastal road trip. Inside, the refined interior strikes a balance between utility and sophistication. Premium fabric or leather-trimmed seats, a driver-focused cockpit, and thoughtful additions like wireless phone charging, ambient lighting, and connected tech create a truly modern driving environment. Safety remains a core focus. Adaptive Cruise Control, Forward Collision Warning, Speed Assist, Lane Assist, and a 360-degree camera system ensure every journey is secure, whether in the city or beyond. As customer interest continues to rise, the MG ZS is proving to be one of the smartest choices in the compact SUV category, delivering a future-ready design, tech-forward features, and outstanding value for money. Mr. Mohsin Hani Al Bahrani, CEO MHD ACERE remarked, 'At MHD ACERE, we believe the all-new MG ZS represents more than just a compact SUV – it embodies the spirit of the modern Omani driver. With its elevated design, intelligent features, and driver-focused performance, the MG ZS is perfectly tailored for today's dynamic lifestyles. It's a vehicle that speaks to ambition, youth, and a future-forward mindset — all while delivering exceptional value.' MG Oman invites drivers to experience the ZS for themselves, a car that looks great, feels great, and fits seamlessly into modern life. To discover the ultimate driving experience, visit your nearest MG Showroom or contact 80080111 today. MG Motor is a British-born automotive brand established in 1924, known for its historic models, awards, and achievements throughout the past 101 years. MG was founded by William Morris and Cecil Kimbers and has one of the oldest car clubs in the automotive industry. Best known for its two-seat open sports cars, MG Motor also produced saloons and coupes. Since its acquisition of MG, SAIC MOTOR, as a Global Top 500 company, has opened a new chapter for this British icon. MG Motor is at the forefront of the introduction of innovative technologies and new energy vehicles for car buyers. MHD ACERE is the flagship distributor of MG in Oman, committed towards the growth of MG brands in the Sultanate with a motto of enhanced customer delight and world-class after-sales services. A dedicated network and round-the-clock support have established MHD ACERE as a reliable name in the industry. © Muscat Media Group Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. (
Times of Oman
13-07-2025
- Automotive
- Times of Oman
MG ZS Continues to Set the Standard for Compact SUVs in Oman
Muscat: The next-generation MG ZS has quickly cemented its place as one of the most compelling compact SUVs in Oman. Since its debut, the all-new ZS has resonated deeply with urban explorers, young professionals, and design-forward families, delivering exactly what they need: style, performance, and substance in one smart package. More than just an upgrade, the new MG ZS represents a confident shift toward premium sensibilities, offering a design-led experience backed by intuitive tech and everyday practicality. The 12.3-inch infotainment screen, jet-wing-inspired console, and panoramic sunroof elevate every drive, while its MG Pilot ADAS suite ensures drivers stay protected and in control. Under the hood, the MG ZS continues to impress with two versatile engine options, a 1.5L engine with 112HP for daily ease and fuel efficiency & a 1.3L turbocharged variant with 168HP for those who want extra punch in city or weekend drives. Both variants offer three drive modes, giving drivers the flexibility to switch from relaxed cruising to responsive performance at will. Visually, the ZS commands attention. From the Hunter-Eye LED headlamps to the aerodynamic lines and 18-inch alloy wheels, it's designed to stand out, whether navigating narrow alleys in Muttrah or heading out on a coastal road trip. Inside, the refined interior strikes a balance between utility and sophistication. Premium fabric or leather-trimmed seats, a driver-focused cockpit, and thoughtful additions like wireless phone charging, ambient lighting, and connected tech create a truly modern driving environment. Safety remains a core focus. Adaptive Cruise Control, Forward Collision Warning, Speed Assist, Lane Assist, and a 360-degree camera system ensure every journey is secure, whether in the city or beyond. As customer interest continues to rise, the MG ZS is proving to be one of the smartest choices in the compact SUV category, delivering a future-ready design, tech-forward features, and outstanding value for money. Mr. Mohsin Hani Al Bahrani, CEO MHD ACERE remarked, 'At MHD ACERE, we believe the all-new MG ZS represents more than just a compact SUV – it embodies the spirit of the modern Omani driver. With its elevated design, intelligent features, and driver-focused performance, the MG ZS is perfectly tailored for today's dynamic lifestyles. It's a vehicle that speaks to ambition, youth, and a future-forward mindset — all while delivering exceptional value.' MG Oman invites drivers to experience the ZS for themselves, a car that looks great, feels great, and fits seamlessly into modern life. To discover the ultimate driving experience, visit your nearest MG Showroom or contact 80080111 today. MG Motor is a British-born automotive brand established in 1924, known for its historic models, awards, and achievements throughout the past 101 years. MG was founded by William Morris and Cecil Kimbers and has one of the oldest car clubs in the automotive industry. Best known for its two-seat open sports cars, MG Motor also produced saloons and coupes. Since its acquisition of MG, SAIC MOTOR, as a Global Top 500 company, has opened a new chapter for this British icon. MG Motor is at the forefront of the introduction of innovative technologies and new energy vehicles for car buyers. MHD ACERE is the flagship distributor of MG in Oman, committed towards the growth of MG brands in the Sultanate with a motto of enhanced customer delight and world-class after-sales services. A dedicated network and round-the-clock support have established MHD ACERE as a reliable name in the industry.
Daily Mail
16-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Daily Mail
Explorers offer peek at abandoned theme park where boy, 13, died in tragic accident a decade ago
Urban explorers have shed light on an eerie abandoned theme park where a teen died tragically more than 10 years ago. Video footage shows the decaying Copa Copana Water Park in Athens - seemingly unchanged from the 2014 disaster that claimed the life of the 13-year-old boy. He and his sister, nine, were swept up by a gust of wind while playing inside a large inflatable ball at the 32,000 sq ft site in the Greek capital. Decaying: The park was the site of one of the grimmest amusement park disasters in 2014 when a boy died while enjoying one of its attractions They were flung from the surface of a pool about 100ft into a metal barrier and rushed immediately to Agia Sofia Children's Hospital in Athens. The boy died shortly after, having suffered severe head injuries, while his sibling was left critically injured and diagnosed with severe lung contusion. Copa Copana's two managers were arrested and an investigation began into whether safety issues played a role in the tragedy. Greek police concluded it was a result of both 'bad weather conditions and human error' and the park was swiftly closed for good. Now a group of urban explorers have headed back to the park and discovered a creepy site, with the attraction's rides and slides still up, but barely a soul around. Nature has reclaimed the abandoned park, with huge spiraling plants intertwined with the twists and turns of the various defunct flumes. With the facility tucked in between a hillside and a main road, the YouTubers - whose account Urbandoned has 138,000 subscribers - try to sneak into the site from the rear. After a walk through a forest of thick trees, the duo eventually see an abandoned ride peeking out from the undergrowth. The park is well protected, with a layer of razor wire coating a fence and a small surrounding road, seemingly used by security staff. They eventually squeeze beneath a small gap in the fence before exploring the spooky site. Discarded piping and metal cover the park's grounds with thick weeds and plants dispersed between what were once popular rides. Drone footage shows the slides gathering rust and moss and pools of stagnant water, filled with tadpoles, sitting in sections of the facility. A climb to the top of one of the flumes offers expansive views of the surrounding mountains, city and the meandering metal rides. As he walks down a path, overgrown with towering green plants, one of them describes Copa Copana as 'an actual jungle.' The narrator explains that the park in its heyday boasted 13 rides as well as cafes and restaurants. Bizarrely, they spot dozens of sun loungers and outdoor tables stowed away beneath one of the slides, a reminder of the fun experiences once had at the site. It turns out they are not the first explorers to visit the abandoned park, with several rides seen covered in graffiti, sprayed on in the years since they were drained out. A trip up a few flights of creaky stairs to the highest point in the facility allows one of the YouTubers to even get a spectacular view of the ocean, as well as the vast extent of the creepy site. Poignant archive footage then shows Copa Copana at its happy peak several decades before, with hundreds of children and parents enjoying its attractions. The group are initially surprised by the lack of security at the abandoned site but it turns out the guard had been resting on a sun lounger before ambling towards them. The friendly member of staff allows them to stroll to the part of the park they have not yet seen as long as they then head for the exit. Eerily, some of the lifeguard chairs and even cafe menus remain left exactly where they stood during Copa Copana's operational days.
