Fear and concern have gripped the local community over the sudden closure of Oakwood Theme Park in Pembrokeshire, with residents vowing to fight on to save the beloved attraction. The closure announcement on Tuesday came as a shock to many, as Oakwood has been a staple in the region since it first opened its doors back in 1987. While local businesses remain confident that Pembrokeshire has other draws for tourists, there are genuine worries about the broader impact of the closure on the area’s tourism industry.
Aspro Parks, the owner of Oakwood Theme Park, made the heartbreaking decision to shut down the park for good, leaving both employees and visitors devastated by the news. The closure not only resulted in confirmed job losses for up to 200 employees during the park’s open season from April to November but has also raised concerns about the ripple effect on the local economy. Samuel Kurtz, a member of the Senedd for Carmarthen West and South Pembrokeshire, has reached out to local businesses to offer employment opportunities for those affected by the closure.
The closure of Oakwood Theme Park is seen as a potential warning sign for the broader tourism industry in Wales. The Wales Tourism Allowance (WTA) has expressed disappointment over the closure, highlighting the significant impact it could have on the local economy. With over 20% of working individuals in Pembrokeshire employed in tourism and hospitality, the closure of Oakwood could have far-reaching consequences. The WTA has also raised concerns about various governmental decisions that could further harm the tourism industry, including proposals for a Welsh visitor levy (tourist tax) and increased national insurance contributions.
Emma Thornton, the CEO of Visit Pembrokeshire, echoed the sentiments of many in expressing sadness over Oakwood’s closure and the challenges facing the tourism industry. Despite these challenges, there is some optimism that the closure of Oakwood may not severely impact visitor numbers, as other attractions in the region like Bluestone Resort and Folly Farm continue to draw in visitors. Owners of local businesses, such as Quarry Park Camping and The Folly, believe that Pembrokeshire’s natural beauty and diverse offerings will continue to attract tourists.
The closure of Oakwood Theme Park has also raised questions about the future of the land it once occupied and the potential impact on its neighboring attractions. Bluestone Resort, located next to Oakwood, acknowledged the park’s contribution to local tourism and expressed a commitment to supporting Pembrokeshire’s tourism economy. As the local community grapples with the loss of Oakwood, residents and officials are calling for action to save the theme park and preserve its heritage.
Local MS Samuel Kurtz emphasised the challenges facing businesses in the tourism sector in Wales and urged support for those affected by the closure. The Welsh Government has stated its readiness to offer assistance to the Oakwood workforce, while a petition has been launched to save the theme park during a consultation period. As the community rallies to save Oakwood, the closure serves as a poignant reminder of the fragility of the tourism industry and the need for sustainable support measures to protect Wales’ cultural and economic heritage.
In the face of adversity, the spirit of resilience and determination shines through as locals and stakeholders unite to safeguard the future of tourism in Pembrokeshire. Oakwood Theme Park may have closed its gates, but its legacy and impact will not be forgotten, serving as a symbol of the challenges and opportunities facing the Welsh tourism industry at large.