ONE of the biggest theme parks in the UK has made the shock decision to close its gates permanently after nearly 40 years.
Wales’ beloved Oakwood Theme Park has announced its sudden closure with the blame being placed on “unrelenting economic challenges”.
Wales’ beloved Oakwood Theme Park has announced its sudden closure[/caption]
One of the thrilling rides in the theme park[/caption]
The theme park has been described as a ‘rite of passage’ for youngsters in the area for years[/caption]
The Pembrokeshire-based park made a statement today saying: “It is with much sadness that we have to announce the immediate closure of Oakwood Theme Park and confirm the park will not open for the 2025 season.
“Following a strategic review of the business, Aspro Parks, owner and operator of Oakwood Theme Park have reached this difficult decision due to the challenges presented by the current business environment.
“All possible avenues have been explored to avoid the closure, and we fully recognise the impact of the closure on the local community and the loss that will be felt as a result.”
The statement continued to say how the number of visitors have been noticeably declining with it now becoming “unsustainable” to invest into money into the park and expect success.
Increases in the cost of ride parts, electricity and even food and drink price hikes have all impacted the park’s decisions.
Its owner and operators, Aspro Parks, made their own statement on the closure.
They said: “In the entire history of Aspro we have never closed any park or attraction.
“We, and our dedicated team of staff has strived to overcome numerous challenges to continue to bring joy to families and visitors across the region and country.
“Unfortunately, we could no longer see a sustainable way forward and will seek to improve our other parks using the assets and where possible team elsewhere”.
The park said one of the hardest parts of announcing its final year of trading was how it means they are taking away a “rite of passage” for youngsters in the area.
Their statement ended: “Thank you for making Oakwood Theme Park a special place.”
Oakwood opened in 1987 and quickly became a hit with locals and tourists.
It became famous for its traditional wooden rollercoaster Megafobia with fans from all over the world turning up to ride it.
In 1997, it opened up another ride for thrill seekers called Vertigo.
Drenched was then launched in 2002 before Speed in 2006.
Oakwood Theme Park is located in Tenby, Wales[/caption]
