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Western Telegraph
20-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Western Telegraph
Pembrokeshire's Oakwood Theme Park revival plan put forward
The iconic attraction was shut down last March by its owners, Spanish leisure company Aspro Parks, who blamed decreasing footfall and rising costs for their decision to end the park's 38-year existence. Aspro is now said to be considering the proposal from RLP (Richens Leisure Projects) and RLP said: "We'd love to open as soon as possible." The man behind RLP, who lives in Carmarthenshire, close to the Pembrokeshire border, has asked to remain anonymous for the time being. But he has happy childhood memories of Oakwood in its glory days as the top tourist attraction in Wales, when it brought in over 500,000 visitors a year. The ride photo from Megafobia was a must-have Oakwood souvenir. (Image: Andrew RT Davies) "We don't just want to reopen the park — we want to enhance it, evolve it, and build something Wales can be proud of on an international scale,' he told the Western Telegraph. 'This is our one project, our full focus, and our commitment is absolute." Megafobia was regarded as one of the best wooden roller-coasters in the world. (Image: Gareth Davies Photography) 'I grew up in West Wales,' he added.' I remember every queue, every hill climb, every first drop. "Oakwood wasn't just a theme park — it was a rite of passage for kids in this country. You didn't just go there. You remembered it.' He continued: 'This isn't about nostalgia — it's about rebuilding pride. It's about giving today's kids the same memories we had, only with something stronger behind it: community ownership and a long-term plan.' Within a week of closure, the park was looking sorry for itself. (Image: Hidden Pembrokeshire - Gareth Davies Photography) He confirmed that he understands that his formal acquisition proposal is being reviewed by Aspro Parks and added: "The public response has already been overwhelming — what's missing is movement from the owners. We're ready when they are.' At the time of Oakwood's closure, Wales' First Minister, Eluned Morgan, said she was 'deeply saddened' at the news. She is amongst key stakeholders throughout Wales – including Welsh Government economy and tourism divisions and Visit Wales – who have been contacted by RLP. A visit to Oakwood was always a n eagerly-awaited treat. (Image: Oakwood Theme Park) While not wishing to reveal any images of their plans for Oakwood's revival at this stage, RLP's owner says that the plan "isn't about flipping a distressed asset. It's about rebuilding something meaningful for west Wales - a park with pride, roots and identity." "The moment we get the green light, we're ready to raise the serious funding this will require. "That's already in motion — but it only activates once we have Aspro's approval to proceed. We've planned the infrastructure, the rides, the workforce, and the Welsh-facing identity. "Now we just need the door to open."
South Wales Argus
20-05-2025
- Entertainment
- South Wales Argus
Pembrokeshire's Oakwood Theme Park revival plan put forward
The iconic attraction was shut down last March by its owners, Spanish leisure company Aspro Parks, who blamed decreasing footfall and rising costs for their decision to end the park's 38-year existence. Aspro is now said to be considering the proposal from RLP (Richens Leisure Projects) and RLP said: "We'd love to open as soon as possible." The man behind RLP, who lives in Carmarthenshire, close to the Pembrokeshire border, has asked to remain anonymous for the time being. But he has happy childhood memories of Oakwood in its glory days as the top tourist attraction in Wales, when it brought in over 500,000 visitors a year. The ride photo from Megafobia was a must-have Oakwood souvenir. (Image: Andrew RT Davies) "We don't just want to reopen the park — we want to enhance it, evolve it, and build something Wales can be proud of on an international scale,' he told the Western Telegraph. 'This is our one project, our full focus, and our commitment is absolute." Megafobia was regarded as one of the best wooden roller-coasters in the world. (Image: Gareth Davies Photography) 'I grew up in West Wales,' he added.' I remember every queue, every hill climb, every first drop. "Oakwood wasn't just a theme park — it was a rite of passage for kids in this country. You didn't just go there. You remembered it.' He continued: 'This isn't about nostalgia — it's about rebuilding pride. It's about giving today's kids the same memories we had, only with something stronger behind it: community ownership and a long-term plan.' Within a week of closure, the park was looking sorry for itself. (Image: Hidden Pembrokeshire - Gareth Davies Photography) He confirmed that he understands that his formal acquisition proposal is being reviewed by Aspro Parks and added: "The public response has already been overwhelming — what's missing is movement from the owners. We're ready when they are.' At the time of Oakwood's closure, Wales' First Minister, Eluned Morgan, said she was 'deeply saddened' at the news. She is amongst key stakeholders throughout Wales – including Welsh Government economy and tourism divisions and Visit Wales – who have been contacted by RLP. A visit to Oakwood was always a n eagerly-awaited treat. (Image: Oakwood Theme Park) While not wishing to reveal any images of their plans for Oakwood's revival at this stage, RLP's owner says that the plan "isn't about flipping a distressed asset. It's about rebuilding something meaningful for west Wales - a park with pride, roots and identity." "The moment we get the green light, we're ready to raise the serious funding this will require. "That's already in motion — but it only activates once we have Aspro's approval to proceed. We've planned the infrastructure, the rides, the workforce, and the Welsh-facing identity. "Now we just need the door to open."
South Wales Argus
24-04-2025
- South Wales Argus
Call for Oakwood Theme Park sale in bid to stop trespassers
Despite warnings to keep away from the site near Canaston Bridge, urban explorers, content creators and the frankly curious have been finding a way onto to the land. Their films and photos have shown a desolate scene, with the some rides – such as Drenched and Bounce – demolished and others in a neglected condition. The park announced its closure in March, and now Now Senedd member Sam Kurtz is calling for its early sale for not only for the benefit of Pembrokeshire, but to stop people putting themselves in danger. The Carmarthen West and South Pembrokeshire member would like to see the site back open with a tourism or hospitality offer that locals and visitors can both enjoy. The Pirate Ship ride is all washed up. (Image: Hidden Pembrokeshire - Gareth Davies Photography) The park had been in operation for approaching 40 years and in its heyday was the top tourist attraction in Wales. Mr Kurtz said:"Since Oakwood closed, several individuals have trespassed on the site to film and share content on social media, putting themselves and others in danger. "The most effective way to prevent this is to secure a new buyer for the site. I would be delighted to see it brought back into use as a tourism and hospitality attraction that can be enjoyed by both local residents and visitors. "Although a number of businesses have expressed interest in the site, responsibility lies with Aspro, the parent company, to sell if they have no intention of bringing it back into use. 'This is not a party political matter, which is why I am working with the Welsh Government to help secure a positive future for the site, making sure it is used to benefit Pembrokeshire." There are eerie scenes in the abandoned Brer Rabbit's Burrow. (Image: Hidden Pembrokeshire - Gareth Davies Photography) Dyfed-Powys Police said it was "aware of reports of persons gaining entry to Oakwood" and had received a number of calls "indicating trespassing and potential crimes". Oakwood's owners, the Spanish leisure company Aspro, have not replied to Mr Kurtz's statement. The company has previously warned that 24-hour security is in place on the site and that "anyone found trespassing will be reported to the authorities."
Western Telegraph
24-04-2025
- Western Telegraph
Call for Oakwood Theme Park sale in bid to stop trespassers
Despite warnings to keep away from the site near Canaston Bridge, urban explorers, content creators and the frankly curious have been finding a way onto to the land. Their films and photos have shown a desolate scene, with the some rides – such as Drenched and Bounce – demolished and others in a neglected condition. The park announced its closure in March, and now Now Senedd member Sam Kurtz is calling for its early sale for not only for the benefit of Pembrokeshire, but to stop people putting themselves in danger. The Carmarthen West and South Pembrokeshire member would like to see the site back open with a tourism or hospitality offer that locals and visitors can both enjoy. The Pirate Ship ride is all washed up. (Image: Hidden Pembrokeshire - Gareth Davies Photography) The park had been in operation for approaching 40 years and in its heyday was the top tourist attraction in Wales. Mr Kurtz said:"Since Oakwood closed, several individuals have trespassed on the site to film and share content on social media, putting themselves and others in danger. "The most effective way to prevent this is to secure a new buyer for the site. I would be delighted to see it brought back into use as a tourism and hospitality attraction that can be enjoyed by both local residents and visitors. "Although a number of businesses have expressed interest in the site, responsibility lies with Aspro, the parent company, to sell if they have no intention of bringing it back into use. 'This is not a party political matter, which is why I am working with the Welsh Government to help secure a positive future for the site, making sure it is used to benefit Pembrokeshire." There are eerie scenes in the abandoned Brer Rabbit's Burrow. (Image: Hidden Pembrokeshire - Gareth Davies Photography) Dyfed-Powys Police said it was "aware of reports of persons gaining entry to Oakwood" and had received a number of calls "indicating trespassing and potential crimes". Oakwood's owners, the Spanish leisure company Aspro, have not replied to Mr Kurtz's statement. The company has previously warned that 24-hour security is in place on the site and that "anyone found trespassing will be reported to the authorities."
Scottish Sun
22-04-2025
- Scottish Sun
Inside abandoned UK theme park's network of tunnels, bunny statues & rotting rollercoaster as owner issued harsh warning
The site has been put under 24-hour security Click to share on X/Twitter (Opens in new window) Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) PICTURES of a UK theme park reveal a tunnel network, creepy bunny statues, and rotting rollercoasters as owners are issues a stark warning by officials. The ghost town bosses are being urged to sell the abandoned park quickly as the site is facing a major issue. 7 Urban explorers have taken some spooky snaps of the crumbling park Credit: Hidden Pembrokeshire - Gareth Davies Photography 7 The site has attracted a lot of trespassers since it was abandoned Credit: Hidden Pembrokeshire - Gareth Davies Photography 7 Creepy bunny statues and other ominous ornaments can be spotted around the site Credit: Hidden Pembrokeshire - Gareth Davies Photography Oakwood Theme Park, Wales, has attracted a series of trespassers as it becomes a hot urban exploration spot. A politician has warned that the venue needs to be sold as soon as possible to prevent trespassers from getting hurt trying to get onto the closed rides. There has been a spate of break-ins at the biggest theme park in Wales which attracted thousands of thrill-seekers for almost 40 years. That was until its sudden closure last month due to a decline in footfall. Owners described the site as "unsustainable" and said there would be no future investments in the park, which opened in 1987. Now it looks more like something from a horror movie and has attracted adrenaline junkies who want to explore the dilapidated structures. Trespassers have been seen sneaking into the park to explore the rides before they are sold off by Spanish owners Aspro. Conservative MS Sam Kurtz has called for a "quick sale" of the countryside site as he believes to prevent further problems at the deserted resort. Mr Kurtz, the MS for Carmarthen West and South Pembrokeshire, said: "That's a risk to their health and safety, but also if this is a site that deteriorates, then we potentially lose the opportunity for a quick sale and turnaround to get this site back up and running, whatever that might be in the future. "I really want to see Aspro working with everybody that's available including the Welsh government, myself and other businesses, and potential buyers to see if we can get a quick sale of this asset. "It's such a great asset. Inside abandoned Bugatti factory that made some of world's most expensive cars before being left to rot for 30 years "This is a bit of a plea to the parent company - let's work together and try and get going to find a buyer for this site. "I've not yet heard from them. I really wish they get back in touch with me." Cops have received a number of reports detailing break-ins and potential crimes taking place at the park. Dyfed-Powys Police said it had received a number of calls "indicating trespassing and potential crimes". The Welsh government said it "continues to engage" with the owner of the site. "We recognise the significant value the former Oakwood site holds for locals and visitors, and are hopeful a buyer will come forward to ensure its continued contribution to the local economy and tourism industry," a spokesperson said. Park bosses say trespassers could face "serious consequences" if caught and have employed security teams to put an end to it. A spokesperson for Oakwood Theme Park warned that staff have been monitoring the area and police dogs are on-site. As the site is still under ownership it's not technically abandoned and those on the premises are committing a crime. They said: "To ensure the safety and security of both our staff and the premises, 24-hour security is in place, including regular police patrols and security dogs on-site. "Anyone found trespassing will be reported to the authorities." Aspro added that despite the park's closure, Oakwood remained private property and was not abandoned. "Trespassers not only face legal repercussions but also put themselves at risk," they continued. "The site remains a working environment and not suitable for public access, making it extremely hazardous. "Rides and structures that once entertained thousands are strictly off-limits, with safety hazards that could result in serious injury. "We urge the public to respect the park, as well as the hard work and dedication of those who continue to maintain the site. "Trespassing is a criminal offence and anyone caught on-site without permission could face prosecution." 7 The once bustling venue now is completely quiet Credit: Hidden Pembrokeshire - Gareth Davies Photography 7 Cops have warned trespassers there is 24-hour security at the site Credit: Hidden Pembrokeshire - Gareth Davies Photography 7 A rusty and rotting bathtub was seen in the grounds Credit: Hidden Pembrokeshire - Gareth Davies Photography
