The Pembrokeshire-based park, a staple for family entertainment in the region, expressed “much sadness” over the decision, attributing the closure to dwindling visitor numbers that have led to insurmountable financial troubles.
Oakwood Theme Park, a top attraction in Wales, has shockingly announced its permanent closure after nearly 40 years of providing fun and excitement.
The Pembrokeshire-based park, a mainstay for family entertainment in the area, expressed “much sadness” over the decision, blaming dwindling visitor numbers that have led to overwhelming financial difficulties.
In 2008, Aspro Parks swooped in to save the park, pumping a staggering £25m into revamping the attractions, thereby extending its lifespan. However, recent news hinted at trouble, with plans unveiled in February to dismantle the popular water ride ‘Drenched’.
The difficult decision to shut down Oakwood Theme Park means it won’t be opening its doors for the 2025 season.
The final blow came from escalating costs across the board, from spare parts for rides and sky-high electricity bills, to rocketing food prices, wage hikes, and tax alterations.
The park’s owners, Aspro Parks Group, are reeling from the decision, with a statement saying: “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’s heartfelt goodbye didn’t go unnoticed, as they added: “We would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to the dedication and commitment of our team members past and present, suppliers and contractors who have loyally supported us and of course all those that have visited Oakwood Theme Park over the years. We are sincerely grateful. Thank you for making Oakwood Theme Park a special place.”
Fans are now mourning the loss of their favourite rides, with one devastated enthusiast posting on social media: “Well this is sad news. Oakwood Theme Park in Wales is to close. I hope Megafobia will be saved somehow.”
A distraught fan expressed their sorrow, saying: “Actually devastated about oakwood closing… speed and new megafobia were some of the best coasters in the country and the feeling of surviving waterfall made the trek down there worth it alone.”
For the latest breaking news and stories from across the globe from the Daily Star, sign up for our newsletter by clicking here.