After 21 years as an iconic part of the Xscape Yorkshire experience, the beloved cactus-shaped lift will soon be no more. The much-photographed “Cas Vegas cactus” is being removed as part of a redevelopment project aimed at improving access within the popular Castleford leisure centre.
Standing at an impressive 12 metres tall, the cactus lift has been a fixture at Xscape since it opened its doors in 2003. Over the years, it has served hundreds of thousands of visitors, becoming a well-known landmark and meeting point for locals and tourists alike. However, the time has come for a modern upgrade.
Work on removing the cactus lift is set to begin on Monday, 14th October, and the project is expected to be completed by mid-December. In its place, a new state-of-the-art lift will be installed, improving accessibility for all visitors to the centre.
While the cactus is being dismantled, guests will still be able to access the upper floors via escalators in the foyer or an alternative lift. Xscape will continue to operate as usual throughout the redevelopment period.
Jason Warren, Centre Director at Xscape Yorkshire, reflected on the lift’s long history, saying, “Our cactus-shaped lift has been a much-loved landmark amongst Castleford locals and visitors from further afield since we first opened our doors in 2003. As well as allowing customers easy access to the upper levels, the ‘Cas Vegas cactus’ has provided a common meeting point in the centre and has been the backdrop to countless photo opportunities over the years.”
Warren also shared a bit of trivia, settling a long-standing debate. “To settle the debate about whether it’s a cactus or a gherkin once and for all, it’s definitely a cactus – in its early days it had cactus spikes!”
As the countdown to the cactus’s departure begins, Xscape is encouraging visitors to share their favourite memories and photos of the iconic lift on social media. Over the years, it has been featured in countless birthday parties, anniversaries, hen and stag dos, and even marriage proposals.
Although the cactus may soon be gone, the spirit of Xscape remains. Warren added, “These essential works are part of wider development plans that will enhance the customer experience, improving accessibility within the centre.”
If you’d like to visit Xscape and catch a final glimpse of the cactus lift before it’s removed, or simply plan your next trip, more information can be found at Xscape Yorkshire.
