Blackpool Pleasure Beach has confirmed that it is to build a brand new £16.25m rollercoaster.

During its development, the project has been given the code name ‘Construction 2018’.

The rollercoaster will be made by Mack Rides at its factory in Waldkirch, Germany and will open in Blackpool in Spring 2018.

A double launch will see thrill seekers propelled forward at high speed at the beginning of the ride and at a second point half way through the two and a half minute experience.

Riders will experience the same G force levels as those felt by the driver of a Formula 1 car while the launch of the ride will feature acceleration that is four times that experienced in a Lamborghini Gallardo.

Construction 2018 will reach heights of 88.5ft with drops of up to 82ft.

Deputy Managing Director of Blackpool Pleasure Beach, Nick Thompson, commented: “We have been working on this concept for five years now and are delighted to be able share news of our plans.

“Construction 2018 will be fast, adrenalin fuelled and exhilarating but also smooth and comfortable – an entirely new ride experience.

“It sees a significant investment in Blackpool Pleasure Beach. We expect to see thrill seekers flock to the park to experience this UK ride first.”

Thrill seekers have been filled with further anticipation since Amanda Thompson posted images of herself on social media outside the headquarters of ride builder Mack.

Earlier in the day she had teased followers by tweeting: “Sun is out the sky is blue and a big announcement is due.”

Images have been posted on internet forums which appear to show two other tweets from Amanda Thompson one of which referred to a ‘double launch coaster’ due to open in 2018. Those posts are no longer on the theme park boss’s account.

Earlier in the year plans for a major new ‘launch’ coaster, likely to be built by Mack, were posted on internet forums.