Oakwood theme park quick sale calls amid trespass fears

Oakwood theme park quick sale calls amid trespass fears

Calls for a quick sale of the Oakwood theme park site have escalated due to fears of potential trespassers entering the premises and endangering themselves by exploring the disused rides. Concerns were raised after social media footage captured individuals wandering around Oakwood, located near Narberth in Pembrokeshire, following its closure last month. Pembrokeshire Tory MS Sam Kurtz emphasized the urgency for a speedy sale, warning that prolonged vacancy could lead to further complications.

Originally established in 1987, Oakwood was cherished by generations of Welsh children, featuring iconic attractions like the Megafobia rollercoaster. However, Aspro Parks confirmed in early March that the theme park would not reopen for the 2025 season, citing financial sustainability issues. Kurtz stressed the importance of devising a prompt plan for the future of the site to prevent potential risks to trespassers and to expedite its revival for different purposes.

Dyfed-Powys Police acknowledged reports of unauthorized individuals gaining access to Oakwood, prompting concerns about trespassing and potential illegal activities. Cardiff University Economics Professor Calvin Jones expressed skepticism about the feasibility of finding a new operator willing to take over the Oakwood site as a traditional theme park. Speculation arose about potential alternative uses for the location, contingent upon approval from local planning authorities.

The fate of Oakwood’s future hinges on the discretion of planning bodies in deciding the type of activities permissible on the site. While neighboring Bluestone National Park Resort refrained from commenting on its interest in acquiring the property, Professor Jones speculated that the resort might approach the opportunity cautiously. Despite inquiries from various businesses expressing interest in purchasing the former theme park, the Welsh government continues to engage with the site’s owner in hopes of securing a buyer to sustain the site’s economic and touristic value

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