After weeks of mounting speculation - the owners of Oakwood in Pembrokeshire have announced that the theme park is to close permanently.

Images taken over the half term holidays seem to suggest that the ‘Bounce’ drop tower was another ride being disassembled, only weeks after it was confirmed that the water ride ‘Drenched’ was being retired - leading to rumours as to whether the theme park located near Narberth would open at all for 2025.

Oakwood had recently confirmed that ‘Drenched’ [which was once better known as ‘Hydro’] was being dismantled, 20 years after a tragic incident which saw a teenager plunge to her death.

Billed by Oakwood as ‘Europe’s fastest and wettest watercoaster, back in April, 2004, sixteen-year-old Hayley Williams of Pontypool tragically died when she was hurled from Hydro after an unchecked security bar was left in an ‘open and unsafe position’

A statement from Oakwood’s owners Aspro Parks released on March 4 said: “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.

“Aspro Parks has invested over £25 million since rescuing the park from being at risk of closure in 2008.

“Most recently a major refurbishment of Megafobia, the iconic wooden rollercoaster was completed to great success and acclaim from enthusiasts and fans of the park.

“Despite the ongoing investment visitor numbers have declined, the financial performance of the park has suffered, making further investment unsustainable.

“The unrelenting economic challenges ahead, increases in costs, affecting all areas of the operation from; ride parts to electricity costs, food and beverage inflation, increases in NLW and changes to national insurance thresholds have all impacted the decision.

“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.

“We are aware that Oakwood has been a much-loved destination for generations and a rite of passage for many young visitors. It is for this reason we feel such a sense of sadness.

“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.”