Oakwood Discussion

[TedShatner10]

And so Oakwood (after its sudden, relatively sad, but not unsurprising ending) passes through the veil and most likely becomes a mythical vanished major theme park alongside Camelot and the American Adventure....

 

[JAperson]

Interesting to have some glimmer of hope.

Seems like in a few recent articles that Aspro are refusing to respond to enquiries relating to Oakwood, now from potential buyers as well as local politicians trying to facilitate discussions. Very annoying if so, given their lack of interest in it whilst it was open and their clear intention to do nothing with it now.

It suggests they already have a plan for the site, probably sold or going to move some of the rides to there other parks. Rip the place bear, then probably sell the land bit by bit, and remove any hope.
A community owned, local business park could be good, but they'd have to massively scale down, reduce operating costs and run as a small regional park, however if done well it could possibly stay afloat. But if I'm honest I think it's incredibly unlikely.

 

[James Watkins]

RLP (Richens Leisure Projects) is the company behind the reopening plans. They've set up a website including an FAQs page as well as a social media page.

The use of AI imagery wasn't exactly encouraging, but they say it's only because they don't yet have the rights for official Oakwood imagery.

Oakwood Theme Park – FAQ​

Important: RLP does not yet own Oakwood Theme Park. Talks are ongoing with the current owners. All plans are provisional and subject to change.

1. Do you own Oakwood Theme Park?
No. Ownership has not yet transferred. We are currently in active discussions.
2. Is the park currently open?
No. Oakwood Theme Park is closed at this time.
3. Are you planning to reopen it?
Yes, subject to agreements and conditions being met. We are working toward a relaunch.
4. When will the park reopen?
We can't commit to a date until agreements are finalised. Any opening would follow significant preparation.
5. Will Megafobia stay?
Yes, our intention is to keep Megafobia and restore it as part of Oakwood’s legacy.
6. What about Speed?
Speed’s future is currently uncertain. We hope to retain it, but no final decision has been made.
7. Who is behind the project?
RLP, a family-led company based in the UK.
8. Is this a private or public organisation?
We are a privately run company aiming to rebuild Oakwood with long-term community value in mind.
9. Will any of the original rides return?
Some are planned to return or be refurbished. Others may be replaced if they no longer meet safety or viability standards.
10. Will you add new rides?
Yes. If the park reopens, new attractions will be part of the long-term vision.
11. Will it be affordable?
Affordability is a major part of our approach. Pricing strategies will prioritise accessibility for families.
12. Will locals get discounts?
Yes, local access and community discounts are part of the intended guest model.
13. What about accessibility?
The park will aim to be fully accessible, including sensory-friendly spaces and mobility access across the site.
14. Will Oakwood keep its name?
Yes. Oakwood is a core part of its identity and heritage. We have no plans to rebrand it.
15. Are there any changes to the layout?
Yes, there are plans to reimagine zones and improve flow, but all subject to site inspections and approvals.
16. Are the owners supportive?
Talks are ongoing and professional. We hope to reach a shared vision.
17. Will there be quiet areas for sensory needs?
Yes. Creating quiet zones is a core part of our inclusion-first approach.
18. What about food options?
We're aiming for allergy-friendly, inclusive, and locally sourced food and drink offerings.
19. Will there be WiFi in the park?
Yes, modern guest WiFi is planned to be installed site-wide.
20. Will you bring back Bounce?
Bounce was loved by many. We’re exploring ways to reimagine that thrill in a modern format.
21. Is this being done for profit?
The goal is sustainable operation, not short-term gain. This is a legacy project.
22. Will there be live shows?
Yes, live entertainment is expected to be a part of the relaunch experience.
23. Can I apply for a job?
Recruitment has not started yet. When it does, roles will be posted publicly.
24. What about safety?
All attractions will meet modern health and safety regulations with independent inspection.
25. Will animals be allowed?
We’re exploring dog-friendly options and possible on-site daycare facilities.
26. Will visitors be able to stay overnight nearby?
Oakwood sits within a vibrant tourism region, and we plan to work with local accommodation providers to make visits easier for families coming from further afield.
27. Will there be educational programs?
Yes. We hope to partner with schools and colleges for STEM and hospitality learning.
28. Are you doing themed zones?
Yes, if launched, themed areas based on Welsh legends and storytelling are intended.
29. Will the site be environmentally friendly?
That’s a key objective. We aim to integrate sustainable practices from day one.
30. What’s your stance on inclusion?
Full inclusion is non-negotiable—across mobility, neurodiversity, economic access, and representation.
31. Will there be an app?
Yes. A guest app with live wait times, schedules, and maps is planned.
32. Can I host an event there?
In future, yes. Corporate, school, and private events are envisioned post-reopening.
33. Will there be digital ride photos?
Yes. Digital ride photography will be integrated where possible.
34. Are there plans for holiday events?
Yes. Seasonal programming like Halloween and Christmas is part of the long-term plan.
35. Will it be bilingual?
Yes. Welsh and English signage and branding will be fully supported.
36. Will local schools be involved?
Yes. Engagement with local schools is important for curriculum-linked learning and access.
37. What about press updates?
We’ll share verified updates through our official channels and website.
38. Can I donate or help?
We will soon offer ways for the public to show support. Watch our socials for details.
39. Will there be media production at the park?
Yes. We intend to produce content and invite creators to document the journey.
40. Are you working with Welsh businesses?
Absolutely. Wherever possible, suppliers and services will be sourced locally.
41. What happens if talks fall through?
We hope that doesn’t happen. But we are prepared to walk away if terms aren’t right.
42. Who can I contact for updates?
Please follow us on social media (@RichFunParks) or check our official site for news.
43. Will guest safety be monitored continuously?
Yes. If reopened, safety and operations would be independently audited on a regular basis.
44. Is this related to Aspro Parks?
They are the current owners. We are in negotiations but operate independently.
26. Will visitors be able to stay overnight nearby?
Oakwood sits within a vibrant tourism region, and we plan to work with local accommodation providers to make visits easier for families coming from further afield.
46. Will pets be allowed inside?
General pets likely not. However, pet care facilities are being considered.
47. Will there be a mascot?
Yes. We’d love to bring back classic characters or reimagine new ones.
48. Will ride queues be managed digitally?
Queue management technology is being considered to improve the guest experience.
49. Is this a nostalgic project or a modern one?
Both. It honours Oakwood’s past but is rooted in a forward-looking, guest-focused design.
50. What’s your message to Oakwood fans?
We hear you. We grew up with Oakwood too. This isn’t just business—it’s personal. And we’re doing everything we can to bring it back.

 

[RLP]

RLP (Richens Leisure Projects) is the company behind the reopening plans. They've set up a website including an FAQs page as well as a social media page.

The use of AI imagery wasn't exactly encouraging, but they say it's only because they don't yet have the rights for official Oakwood imagery.

This is true.

So… What does everyone want to know? I can’t go far into details due to contractual obligations but I can confirm our proposal is with the UK Director as we speak.

 

[Cryptocoaster]

Will you build a 200ft+ RMC?

 

[rob666]

So… What does everyone want to know? I can’t go far into details due to contractual obligations but I can confirm our proposal is with the UK Director as we speak.

Citation very much needed.
Show us the money!

 

[RLP]

I’m

Will you build a 200ft+ RMC?

we have a 4 step plan if the park is acquired, what we can say is one of re steps is most certainly a new major ride. We are looking at all different ones. However a RMC is one idea we are looking at should we become the new owners.

 

[Matt N]

Hi @RLP. Thank you for engaging with us!

One question I would have regarding your proposal is; do you intend for nostalgia for the Oakwood of old to drive your plans (i.e. your plans mostly consist of reopening or “bringing back” previous attractions), or do you intend to introduce new things and put your own stamp on the park?

Your proposal is certainly exciting, and I look forward to seeing how talks with Aspro and the Welsh Government progress!

 

[RLP]

Hi @RLP. Thank you for engaging with us!

One question I would have regarding your proposal is; do you intend for nostalgia for the Oakwood of old to drive your plans (i.e. your plans mostly consist of reopening or “bringing back” previous attractions), or do you intend to introduce new things and put your own stamp on the park?

Your proposal is certainly exciting, and I look forward to seeing how talks with Aspro and the Welsh Government progress!

Thanks for the welcome — and really appreciate the question.


We don’t see nostalgia as the plan, but it is part of the foundation. If we’re able to move forward, some things from Oakwood’s past may return — but only where it makes sense, and only if they still work for today’s audience.

That said, we’re not trying to just reopen what was there. The aim would be to introduce new ideas, new experiences, and build something that feels fresh, while still nodding to what made Oakwood special in the first place.

Nothing is locked in yet — and we want to get it right, not just fast. But yes, the goal is to put our own stamp on it, not just hit rewind.

Appreciate the support — and we’ll share more if things progress with Aspro and the Welsh Government.

 

[JayStocky]

@RLP very exciting to see something somewhat "Serious" with regards to reviving such a beautiful park. As a private venture like yours how can we trust that anything will come of it (ie where's the money coming from) if the park is acquired from Aspro. Also, how much of that money will be spent undoing the years of neglect from Aspro after such low investment in used attractions and low quality installations. My last question for now is would you pick up where Aspro left off with gravity group's work retracking Megafobia? I imagine after 7 or 8 months of no work to maintain rides they will also need extensive work to reopen things too? No matter the outcome it's cool to see something like this and appreciate you interacting with people

 

[RLP]

@RLP very exciting to see something somewhat "Serious" with regards to reviving such a beautiful park. As a private venture like yours how can we trust that anything will come of it (ie where's the money coming from) if the park is acquired from Aspro. Also, how much of that money will be spent undoing the years of neglect from Aspro after such low investment in used attractions and low quality installations. My last question for now is would you pick up where Aspro left off with gravity group's work retracking Megafobia? I imagine after 7 or 8 months of no work to maintain rides they will also need extensive work to reopen things too? No matter the outcome it's cool to see something like this and appreciate you interacting with people

Appreciate the message — and fair questions.

We’re being upfront that we don’t own the park and haven’t been given the green light yet. But yes, this is a serious, privately-led proposal.

We’re approaching this with a structured business mindset, focused on long-term viability and proper backing — not just running on enthusiasm alone.

If it does go ahead, we’re fully aware that years of money pumped into the park doesn’t mean it will be a quick fix. The priority would be safety, compliance, and infrastructure first — not just ride marketing.

Regarding Megafobia, we’d need to see what condition it’s in before committing to anything. If the Gravity Group work wasn’t finished, and we get access, we’d assess it properly before making decisions.

We appreciate the honesty — and we’re committed to staying transparent as this develops. Thanks for following along.

 

[JayStocky]

Appreciate the message — and fair questions.

We’re being upfront that we don’t own the park and haven’t been given the green light yet. But yes, this is a serious, privately-led proposal.

We’re approaching this with a structured business mindset, focused on long-term viability and proper backing — not just running on enthusiasm alone.

If it does go ahead, we’re fully aware that years of money pumped into the park doesn’t mean it will be a quick fix. The priority would be safety, compliance, and infrastructure first — not just ride marketing.

Regarding Megafobia, we’d need to see what condition it’s in before committing to anything. If the Gravity Group work wasn’t finished, and we get access, we’d assess it properly before making decisions.

We appreciate the honesty — and we’re committed to staying transparent as this develops. Thanks for following along.

Appreciate the response, Oakwood wasn't a huge part of my childhood but I met a lot of people through events like RCCGB's Megaglowmania so if the park returns in anyway with Megafobia, Speed, Bobsleigh and other rides I'd be so happy. Very interested to see if things progress with this - and as much I'd love to trust it and believe this will all happen I won't get my hopes up until we have an opening date if things ever progress that far.

 

[RLP]

Citation very much needed.
Show us the money!

While we’re not publicly disclosing funding details just yet, I can confirm this is being approached as a serious business acquisition with structured investment, not a fan-led fundraiser or passion project.

When the time’s right, everything will be backed with the transparency you’d expect from any properly capitalised deal — until then, appreciate the patience while we do things the right way.

Thanks for keeping an eye on it.

Appreciate the response, Oakwood wasn't a huge part of my childhood but I met a lot of people through events like RCCGB's Megaglowmania so if the park returns in anyway with Megafobia, Speed, Bobsleigh and other rides I'd be so happy. Very interested to see if things progress with this - and as much I'd love to trust it and believe this will all happen I won't get my hopes up until we have an opening date if things ever progress that far.

Totally understandable — and honestly, that kind of cautious optimism is exactly the right place to be.

Megaglowmania and RCCGB events were such a big part of the park’s community side, and if things do progress, restoring that spirit (alongside the headline rides like Megafobia, Speed, and Bobsleigh) is a big part of what we’d want to bring back.

No promises or hype — just serious work behind the scenes. If we get the green light, you’ll see it unfold properly. Thanks for following along.

 

[JayStocky]

Totally understandable — and honestly, that kind of cautious optimism is exactly the right place to be.

Megaglowmania and RCCGB events were such a big part of the park’s community side, and if things do progress, restoring that spirit (alongside the headline rides like Megafobia, Speed, and Bobsleigh) is a big part of what we’d want to bring back.

No promises or hype — just serious work behind the scenes. If we get the green light, you’ll see it unfold properly. Thanks for following along.

Very curious to know aswell, will you be bringing people with a background in theme park operation and the like to help bring it back to life? Another concern is that the park will be lead by people who do not have experience in what you will need to / be trying to do to bring the park back to life. And also making sure that new rides are actually new and money well spent on things that will draw in guests. For example a good ride suggestion would be the likes of this:
From: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BdVXYKc2vAg


Always wanted to see a quirky new ride at oakwood and couldn't help but think something like that from Aspro would have made a huge difference to the park's future under their leadership.

 

[RLP]

Very curious to know aswell, will you be bringing people with a background in theme park operation and the like to help bring it back to life? Another concern is that the park will be lead by people who do not have experience in what you will need to / be trying to do to bring the park back to life. And also making sure that new rides are actually new and money well spent on things that will draw in guests. For example a good ride suggestion would be the likes of this:
From: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BdVXYKc2vAg


Always wanted to see a quirky new ride at oakwood and couldn't help but think something like that from Aspro would have made a huge difference to the park's future under their leadership.

Totally fair points — and questions we’ve had to ask ourselves too.

If we’re given the opportunity to move forward, the goal isn’t to run the park in isolation. We’re already speaking with people who have direct experience in ride operations, safety, training, and theme park management — both from within the UK and internationally. Any serious revival of Oakwood will need the right team behind it, not just vision.

As for new rides — agreed. If investment is going into attractions, they need to be well-designed, high quality, and guest-driven, not just box-ticking installs. That video you linked is a great example of something quirky and memorable that would’ve stood out.

We’re trying to build something that lasts, not just rehash the past. Appreciate you raising this — it’s exactly the kind of thinking we’re trying to prioritise.

 

[Matt N]

Another question I would have is; have you guys got a particular target market in mind for the “new” Oakwood?

So for instance, would your aim be to create something mostly aimed at younger families, along the lines of, say, Paultons Park? Or would you aim to go for some big thrill rides and be quite a thrill-focused park, like Oakwood did back in the 2000s? Or are you just aiming to make the park appeal to everyone?

 

[JayStocky]

Totally fair points — and questions we’ve had to ask ourselves too.

If we’re given the opportunity to move forward, the goal isn’t to run the park in isolation. We’re already speaking with people who have direct experience in ride operations, safety, training, and theme park management — both from within the UK and internationally. Any serious revival of Oakwood will need the right team behind it, not just vision.

As for new rides — agreed. If investment is going into attractions, they need to be well-designed, high quality, and guest-driven, not just box-ticking installs. That video you linked is a great example of something quirky and memorable that would’ve stood out.

We’re trying to build something that lasts, not just rehash the past. Appreciate you raising this — it’s exactly the kind of thinking we’re trying to prioritise.

Look forward to watching this develop. Wales deserves Oakwood, and the location is no excuse for its lack of success when other examples around the country like Flamingo Land which are fairly remote are able to operate and invest successfully. Aspro just ran it into the ground and tried to brag that they’d spent £25million since 2008 which is such a small amount of money for a theme park with the only noteworthy investment being Gravity Group retracking key areas of Megafobia and wasting money trying to fix drenched and bounce lol

Some cool quirky rides like Storm are what i’d love to see. Hopefully you succeed and i look forward to you having more to show in the future should things proceed.

 

[RLP]

Another question I would have is; have you guys got a particular target market in mind for the “new” Oakwood?

So for instance, would your aim be to create something mostly aimed at younger families, along the lines of, say, Paultons Park? Or would you aim to go for some big thrill rides and be quite a thrill-focused park, like Oakwood did back in the 2000s? Or are you just aiming to make the park appeal to everyone?

Great question — and one we’ve thought about a lot.

If we’re able to move forward, the aim wouldn’t be to copy any single model like Paultons or go full thrill like the 2000s. It’s more about building a balanced park that works for families, teens, and thrill-seekers without leaning too heavily in one direction.

We’d want a solid family offering as the foundation, especially for daytime and seasonal tourism — but also include headline thrill attractions that give the park a reason to stand out internnationally. It’s about creating a full-day experience with layered appeal, not just ticking boxes for one group.

Nothing’s set in stone yet, but that’s the direction we’re looking at

Look forward to watching this develop. Wales deserves Oakwood, and the location is no excuse for its lack of success when other examples around the country like Flamingo Land which are fairly remote are able to operate and invest successfully. Aspro just ran it into the ground and tried to brag that they’d spent £25million since 2008 which is such a small amount of money for a theme park with the only noteworthy investment being Gravity Group retracking key areas of Megafobia and wasting money trying to fix drenched and bounce lol

Some cool quirky rides like Storm are what i’d love to see. Hopefully you succeed and i look forward to you having more to show in the future should things proceed.

Really appreciate the support — and completely agree that Wales deserves a park like Oakwood at its best.

We’re being careful not to speak negatively about the current owners, but we do believe the park’s challenges weren’t just about location. There are other parks in rural areas that have shown what’s possible with the right long-term planning and investment. That’s the kind of thinking we’d aim to bring if given the opportunity.

We’re big fans of characterful, memorable rides too — things like Storm are exactly the kind of additions that give a park its identity. If things move forward, we’ll be sharing more as soon as we’re able

Another question I would have is; have you guys got a particular target market in mind for the “new” Oakwood?

So for instance, would your aim be to create something mostly aimed at younger families, along the lines of, say, Paultons Park? Or would you aim to go for some big thrill rides and be quite a thrill-focused park, like Oakwood did back in the 2000s? Or are you just aiming to make the park appeal to everyone?

Great question.

If things progress, the aim wouldn’t be to copy any one model. We’d be looking to create a balanced park — something that offers a strong day out for families with young children, but still includes a few standout thrill rides to keep Oakwood’s legacy alive and give people a reason to travel.

So not all thrills, not all toddlers — but a mix that actually works together and gives the park a clear identity again.

 

[Poisson]

Is there any proof of financial firepower to actually do this? Sounds like a vague idea at best. I hope it works, but remain unconvinced.

 

[RLP]

Is there any proof of financial firepower to actually do this? Sounds like a vague idea at best. I hope it works, but remain unconvinced.

Completely fair to ask — a lot of people have big ideas for Oakwood, but not many have taken real steps. This isn’t one of those vague “what ifs.” It’s a live, structured proposal — fully developed, professionally written, and already presented to the current owners (Aspro), Welsh Government, and other stakeholders.

We’ve done our homework. The proposal includes operational timelines, risk mitigation, site condition planning, IP transfer terms, and due diligence processes — all ready to go the moment we’re allowed. It’s designed to bring Oakwood into the modern era without losing what made it iconic in the first place.

We’re not just chasing nostalgia. We’re building something that works year-round, with accessibility, digital integration, community access, and Welsh culture at its core. The operational plan has space for STEM learning zones, family-first pricing, dog-friendly day care, neurodiverse guest spaces, EV transport, and themed storytelling that actually reflects Wales.

We’re not pretending to own the park. But the second we get the green light, everything’s ready to move — and we’ll be completely transparent with the public once it’s viable. Until then, no spin — just facts, preparation, and a clear vision.

Appreciate the doubt — it keeps things real. But behind the scenes, this isn’t a fantasy.