A popular inflatable leisure park in Jarman Park, Hemel Hempstead, was unexpectedly closed overnight after landlord Tesco changed the locks, leaving both customers and staff shocked and disappointed. The venue, known as Cloud 9, had become a vibrant community hub since its launch in April 2022, hosting ninja warrior-style courses, birthday parties, and live entertainment.
The closure, which occurred just days into the half-term break, has not only disrupted holiday plans for hundreds of families but also left 50 staff members facing uncertain futures.
CEO Expresses Devastation
In a heartfelt statement posted on Cloud 9’s website, CEO Andrew expressed deep emotional distress over the closure, describing himself as “in shock, in tears, angry, so sad, sick.” He labelled Tesco’s move as “heartless” and claimed the company was given no opportunity to recover or renegotiate terms after a prolonged period of financial uncertainty.
Behind the Closure: A Dispute with Tesco and Schroders
The abrupt shutdown follows a complicated lease and rent dispute involving Tesco, property managers Schroders, and Cloud 9’s original landlord, Empire Cinemas, which held the main lease for the site. Cloud 9 had been operating under a sublease agreement with Empire until the cinema chain entered liquidation in early 2024.
This left Cloud 9 to negotiate directly with Tesco, who demanded the leisure park cover the full rent and service charges—previously paid by Empire—plus alleged arrears totalling £1 million. According to Andrew, the amount was never officially broken down or substantiated.
On 4 April, Tesco’s agent Richard Dunling of Schroders offered Cloud 9 a two-month lease extension—but at a cost of £100,000, which Andrew said was three times the park’s usual monthly rent. Despite pleas for a compromise, no agreement was reached, and Tesco proceeded to change the locks on 16 April.
Tesco Responds
A spokesperson for Tesco stated:
“We have been in ongoing discussions with Cloud 9 and have offered various options to help manage the arrears. Unfortunately, a resolution could not be reached, and we are now working to identify a new operator to continue offering leisure facilities at the site.”
Community Impact
The closure has sparked outrage among parents and local residents, with many taking to social media to share their frustration and support for the Cloud 9 team.
One Facebook user wrote: “My son’s birthday party was booked for this weekend—this is absolutely heartbreaking. Cloud 9 was a fantastic space for families.”
Another added: “This wasn’t just a business, it was part of our community. The way this has been handled is appalling.”
What’s Next?
Cloud 9’s future remains uncertain. Andrew has expressed hope of finding a new location or potential investors to help resurrect the business. In the meantime, customers who had bookings for events are encouraged to check the company’s website or contact support for updates on refunds and future plans.
Tesco confirmed it is actively seeking a new leisure operator for the site, though no timelines or candidates have been announced.
This incident underscores the fragility of small and independent businesses navigating commercial lease challenges, especially following the pandemic and broader economic pressures.
