Alton Towers' new giant £18m rollercoaster will be 'first of its kind in the world'



Alton Towers has announced plans to build its biggest, most 'intense' ride at a cost of £18 million.



The rollercoaster, which currently shares its name with a south London postcode, will be the first of its kind in the world and 'won't be for the faint-hearted'.



In a spin: Alton Towers is keeping exact details about its new ride SW7 under wraps but has released a proposed plan of the giant rollercoaster

Construction is yet to begin on the new ride - which has been codenamed SW7 (Secret Weapon 7) until its real name is unveiled - but it is expected to open in March 2013.



It will feature a highest drop of 98ft (30m), have a maximum speed of 52mph (85kmph) and last 165 seconds, making it the Staffordshire resort's longest ride.

The theme park's bosses said the 'world-first element' of the ride is still under wraps, but claimed it would be different from traditional rollercoasters.



A spokesperson told TravelMail: 'As the UK’s number one theme park, Alton Towers Resort is always trying to push the limits with its rides and create attractions that give our guests a unique experience.



'SW7 is certainly going to be a different experience from other coasters out there and won’t be for the faint-hearted!'



Fright night: Alton Towers said The Sanctuary - which is part of this year's Scarefest - is a prequel to the new rollercoaster

The theme park's bosses claimed thrill-seekers could experience a taste of what is to come by braving The Sanctuary.

The new attraction at the resort opened as part of this year's Scarefest and is a prequel to the new rollercoaster.

It has been designed to look like a medical facility that has recently reopened after being closed for nearly 50 years. Visitors enter a 'scare maze' where they are confronted by sinister medical staff and residents.

Katherine Duckworth, head of consumer marketing at Alton Towers, said: 'Details of the new ride coming to the theme park in 2013 are still a closely-guarded secret but we know that people are hugely excited about its arrival and want a hint of what is to come.