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Several injured in Oakwood Theme Park ride incident

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A ROUTINE day at Oakwood Theme Park took a horrifying turn yesterday when the park’s ‘Bounce’ ride malfunctioned, resulting in multiple injuries. The popular drop tower ride experienced a sudden and catastrophic failure, plummeting to the ground during a scheduled emergency stop, and causing panic among the 20 riders onboard.

Witnesses reported hearing terrified screams as the 147ft-tall ride malfunctioned. The ride, which is designed to give thrill-seekers a stomach-churning drop, unexpectedly plunged from about halfway up, sending the lift hurtling towards the ground. Among the riders were several children, many of whom were described as “school-age.” Eyewitnesses described the scene as chaotic, with children “screaming and crying” as the ride’s descent accelerated.

One unnamed guest who was on the ride during the incident said, “It fell to the floor without slowing down. Children were screaming and crying as the ride went up and down a few times before it fell quickly to the ground from about halfway up the tower.”
Following the abrupt stop, the park’s emergency protocols were activated. Onsite first aiders quickly attended to the injured, with around eight individuals receiving immediate medical attention at the park. Four others were transported to a local hospital for further treatment. The nature of their injuries is not fully known, but initial reports indicated cases of lower back pain and shock.

Describing the park’s handling of the situation, the guest claimed it was “awful,” noting that assistance seemed limited to those who actively complained of pain. “There have been no apologies from the park,” they added. “They only gave information for guest relations because we asked for it to take it further after the fact we were told no management was available.”

Oakwood Theme Park, the largest theme park in Wales, which opened in 1987, has since issued a statement regarding the incident. “During operation today our drop tower ride Bounce experienced a programmed emergency stop procedure in response to the ride drop height,” the statement read. “The stoppage of the passenger gondola was attended to by our park team and the ride was lowered to the ground where guests were able to disembark. A number of guests reported minor lower back pain immediately after the occurrence and were attended to by our onsite team of first aiders, where assistance was provided. One group sought additional treatment locally, whilst others continued their day at the park. We have closed Bounce whilst we consult with the ride manufacturer.”

Bounce, a prominent feature at Oakwood, had only recently reopened in 2022 following a significant £400,000 refurbishment. The ride, known for its gravity-defying and stomach-lurching drops, had been closed since 2016 and was originally slated to reopen in 2019. However, the pandemic caused further delays, pushing the reopening to last year.

This incident is not the first time Oakwood has faced scrutiny over ride safety. In October 2022, the park made headlines when a man was hospitalised after falling out of a carriage on the

Treetops roller coaster. Despite this, the Health and Safety Executive found no faults with the equipment, and no action was taken against the park.

Tragically, in April 2004, 16-year-old Hayley Williams from Pontypool died after falling 100ft from Oakwood’s Hydro Ride. Her death led to calls for stricter safety regulations in theme parks across the UK.

An investigation is now underway to determine the cause of the Bounce malfunction. Park officials have stated that they are working closely with the ride’s manufacturer to ensure such an incident does not occur again. In the meantime, Bounce remains closed to the public.

The incident has raised serious concerns among visitors and the local community regarding the safety protocols at Oakwood Theme Park. As the investigation continues, many will be watching closely to see how the park addresses these concerns and what measures will be put in place to prevent future accidents.

Sad to see the decline of our local theme park
THE RECENT malfunction of the Bounce at Oakwood has ignited a wave of public outcry and concern over the safety standards at Wales’ largest amusement park. The incident, which left several riders with injuries, has drawn strong reactions from the local community and beyond, as evidenced by comments on social media platforms.

Many locals expressed their shock and frustration over the incident, highlighting long-standing issues with the park’s maintenance and safety protocols. IJ Sturley commented, “Dangerous places, maintained poorly over the years, shortcuts lead to accidents,” reflecting a sentiment shared by many about the perceived decline in the park’s upkeep.

Dylan Connolly shared his relief at avoiding the park: “When I went there it was closed and now I’m glad it was.” This sentiment was echoed by Steven Absalom, who declared, “This is why I don’t go and won’t,” underscoring a growing reluctance among locals to visit the park due to safety fears.

Several individuals have called for the park to be shut down entirely or handed over to new management. Top fan Richard Shanks bluntly stated, “Shut it down its beyond a joke the amount of times something goes wrong.” Luciana Suardi added, “There is a reason why this place is the UK’s worst rated theme park, with all the accidents that have happened there, it needs shutting down.”

Jimmy Lemon reminisced about the park’s former glory, saying, “That place’s current owners are a shambles… put off here a while ago… wish it was owned by the McNamara family again… would soon return to a jewel not a pile of Cr..!” This sentiment was supported by Andrew Clewett, who noted, “This place was run to a very high standard when it was owned by the McNamara’s. So sad to see it in its current condition. Little to no investment.”

Concerned parents and former employees

Parents with children set to visit the park expressed heightened anxiety. Kelly Griffiths remarked, “Just what you want to hear when there’s a school trip next week. I was already apprehensive.” Similarly, Rebecca Doble questioned the safety of future visits: “Ysgol Dyffryn Taf is on a school trip there next week. Are you sure it’s safe?”

Former employees also weighed in on the situation. Kino Wakeman, who briefly worked as a maintenance technician, warned, “Only a matter of time before another fatality 100%” highlighting potential internal issues. Alan Boswell, another ex-employee, noted historical problems with the Bounce ride: “Always had trouble with Bounce. I worked there when it first came. Always breaking down.”

While the current state of the park drew harsh criticism, many commenters reminisced about the better days of Oakwood. Ky-Ky Goward shared, “Such a shame to see and hear it to be in the state it is now used to love going here back in the day as a kid growing up.” This nostalgic view was echoed by Sam Crowe: “Shame though I got some happy memories from childhood there.”

The immediate aftermath of the incident has left many questioning the future of Oakwood Theme Park. Top fan Sarah Davies emphatically stated, “That park should be CLOSED !!!” Gem Phillips questioned, “Why is it still open?”

Carol Griffiths raised an important point about regulatory oversight: “Surely the health & safety agency’s cannot condone this place, do they ever get checked by them..?” Meanwhile, practical suggestions were offered by some, such as Trixie Trixabell Edwards: “Give it to Bluestone! I’m sure they would actually update and look after the park as it’s been a dreadful mess since pfft 10+ years ago.”

As investigations continue, it is clear that the local community’s trust in Oakwood Theme Park has been significantly shaken. The public’s demand for increased safety measures, better maintenance, or even a complete overhaul of management reflects deep concerns over the park’s ability to provide a safe and enjoyable experience for visitors.

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Welsh Conservatives to force Senedd vote on grooming gangs inquiry

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CALLS FOR WALES-WIDE INVESTIGATION INTO CHILD SEXUAL EXPLOITATION

THE WELSH CONSERVATIVES are set to force a vote in the Senedd next Wednesday (Feb 12) on commissioning a Wales-wide independent inquiry into child sexual exploitation by grooming gangs.

Campaigners and politicians have raised concerns that the full extent of the issue remains unknown, despite evidence of grooming gang activity across Wales.

Emily Vaughn, a campaigner who has spoken publicly about her experience of being trafficked and exploited in Wales, has launched a petition urging the Welsh Government to act.

She said: “I was a victim of sexual exploitation by grooming gangs, and I know this practice is more widespread than the authorities acknowledge. The Welsh Government should undertake an inquiry to establish the scale of the problem and support victims in Wales.”

‘NO STONE UNTURNED’

Darren Millar MS

Welsh Conservative leader Darren Millar MS, speaking ahead of the debate, said: “There is clear and concerning evidence of the sexual exploitation of young girls by grooming gangs here in Wales, but what we don’t know is the full extent of the problem.

“We owe it to brave victims to leave no stone unturned in investigating this issue and bringing the perpetrators to justice.

“Simply accepting assurances from the police and councils that grooming gangs are not operating in their areas is not good enough. Only a Wales-wide inquiry will ensure this issue gets the attention it deserves and that our children are protected from predatory behaviour.”

POLITICAL UNITY NEEDED

The motion, set to be debated in the Senedd, urges cross-party support for victims of abuse and calls on the Welsh Government to take decisive action.

Welsh Conservative Shadow Secretary for Social Justice, Altaf Hussain MS, added:

“It is abundantly clear that more must be done to combat sexual violence, domestic abuse, and misogyny.

“We have a duty under international law to tackle sexual violence and support the boys and girls preyed upon by grooming gangs.

“Next week, I will open this vitally important debate, calling on the Welsh Government to commission an independent inquiry into child sexual exploitation by grooming gangs.”

The motion to be debated states:

“The Senedd calls on the Welsh Government to commission an independent inquiry into child sexual exploitation by grooming gangs.”

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£8.2 million for Port Talbot regeneration—what it means for West Wales

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THE FIRST of Port Talbot’s growth and regeneration projects is set to receive £8.2 million from the Tata Steel / Port Talbot Transition Board, marking a significant step towards revitalizing the local economy.

This investment is expected to support over 100 jobs and ultimately contribute more than £87 million to the South Wales economy. To date, the Tata Steel / Port Talbot Transition Board has allocated £51 million into the local community, with further projects anticipated.

Welsh Secretary Jo Stevens, chairing the latest Transition Board meeting today (February 6), will announce that £8.2 million will be directed to the South Wales Industrial Transition from Carbon Hub (SWITCH). This initiative will redevelop a four-acre site at Harbourside, Port Talbot, incorporating new shared space, flood mitigation measures, and specialist equipment. The investment aims to establish an Innovation District that will assist the steel and metal industry in reducing carbon emissions. The facility is projected to generate and sustain over 100 jobs while bolstering the South Wales economy by £87 million.

This funding is part of the UK Government’s £80 million Tata Steel / Port Talbot Transition Board fund, which has already allocated £51 million since July. The latest announcement is the first targeted at regional growth and regeneration, with up to £30 million more expected to be invested in similar projects in the coming months.

Welsh Secretary Jo Stevens emphasized the government’s commitment to supporting Port Talbot’s community through Tata Steel’s transition.

“We said we would back the community of Port Talbot through Tata Steel’s transition, and we continue to do exactly that,” she said. “In just six months, over £50 million has been announced to support individual steelworkers, their families, and businesses in the supply chain. Now, we are investing in a major regeneration project for the town.”

She added that millions more in funding will follow, ensuring continued support for steel communities amid ongoing industrial changes.

The Secretary of State also confirmed efforts to enhance mental health and well-being services, with funding details to be announced at the next Transition Board meeting. The initiative will focus on community cohesion, well-being programs, and peer support networks, including partnerships with local organizations.

Cabinet Secretary for Economy, Energy, and Planning Rebecca Evans welcomed the funding, stating, “This announcement builds on investments unlocked through the recent Celtic Freeport and other initiatives we are supporting in and around Port Talbot. Working alongside our Transition Board partners, we will continue to provide opportunities for growth while ensuring support for those impacted by Tata Steel’s changes.”

Neath Port Talbot Council Leader, Cllr Steve Hunt, also praised the investment, noting its role in attracting jobs and industry to the region: “The SWITCH project will build on our area’s longstanding expertise in the steel and metals industries, helping to address modern challenges and secure future employment.”

Professor Helen Griffiths, Pro Vice-Chancellor for Research and Innovation at Swansea University, highlighted the importance of collaboration, stating, “SWITCH will strengthen Swansea University’s role in uniting academia, industry, and government. This investment will make Welsh research and innovation more accessible to businesses and help stimulate long-term economic growth.”

The SWITCH project, dedicated to industrial decarbonization, will establish a permanent base at Harbourside, adding to its existing £20 million funding from the Swansea Bay City Deal, which also benefits from UK Government support.

What this means for West Wales

This initiative aligns with broader regional development strategies, including the Celtic Freeport, which links Port Talbot and Milford Haven in Pembrokeshire. The Celtic Freeport, which received approval for its full business case in October 2024, aims to attract investment into low-carbon energy projects, create jobs, and contribute significantly to South Wales’ economic transition.

Key connections between the initiatives include:

  • Regional economic impact: The Celtic Freeport is projected to generate £900 million in Gross Value Added (GVA) by 2030 and £13 billion by 2050, complementing the Port Talbot project’s goal of injecting £87 million into the South Wales economy.
  • Decarbonization focus: The SWITCH project will support the steel and metal industry in reducing carbon emissions, aligning with the Celtic Freeport’s emphasis on low-carbon technologies, including floating offshore wind, hydrogen, and carbon capture.
  • Investment and innovation: The Celtic Freeport aims to attract £3.5 billion in investment for the hydrogen sector, while the Port Talbot Innovation District will serve as a hub for industrial research and development.
  • Government backing: Both projects receive support from the UK and Welsh governments, reflecting a coordinated effort to foster economic regeneration.
  • Energy transition: With Milford Haven already processing around 20% of the UK’s energy needs, both initiatives contribute to the country’s broader shift towards sustainable energy solutions.

By linking these initiatives, stakeholders can emphasize a holistic approach to economic regeneration, decarbonization, and job creation across South Wales, ensuring a sustainable future for communities from Port Talbot to Milford Haven.

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£10m boost for social housing in Wales

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Extra funding to help tackle housing crisis

THE WELSH Labour Government has announced an additional £10 million investment in social housing, aiming to deliver more affordable homes for families across Wales.

The funding, which will support 16 housing schemes, is expected to deliver 238 homes before the end of the current Senedd term. It comes as part of the government’s wider commitment to tackling the housing crisis and providing opportunities for families struggling to secure affordable homes.

Record investment in housing

The Welsh Government has made housing a key priority, arguing that good quality, affordable homes are essential for improving health, education, and economic prospects. Ministers say they have already delivered nearly 9,000 affordable rental homes in the social sector since the start of this Senedd term, with further developments in the pipeline.

The latest investment is in addition to the £81 million allocated last year for new housing projects, bringing the total housing budget for 2025-2026 to £411 million. Ministers insist they are delivering “record levels” of investment in social housing.

Challenges remain

Despite the funding boost, the Welsh Government remains short of its ambitious target of delivering 20,000 low-carbon social homes for rent by 2026. Audit Wales has warned that between £580 million and £740 million in extra funding could be needed to meet the target. Rising construction costs, planning delays, and shortages in the building industry have also been cited as barriers to progress.

Political divide over housing

The announcement has sparked fresh debate over housing policy in Wales. Welsh Labour has accused opposition parties of failing to support efforts to increase social housing.

Jayne Bryant MS, Cabinet Secretary for Housing and Local Government, said:
“One of this Government’s key priorities is opportunity for every family. Investing in social housing reduces poverty, improves health, and helps drive economic growth. Good quality, affordable housing can transform lives, improving mental health and educational outcomes.”

She challenged opposition parties to back the investment, adding:
“We know opportunity starts at home. If Plaid Cymru and the Conservatives believe in opportunity for every family, they should vote for our Budget.”

However, opposition parties argue that the funding is insufficient given the scale of the crisis. The Conservatives have blamed rising housing costs on economic mismanagement, while Plaid Cymru has called for alternative approaches to tackling the shortfall in affordable homes.

Expert concerns

Housing campaigners and industry experts have welcomed the extra funding but warn that significant challenges remain. Some argue that a more detailed long-term housing strategy is needed to sustain progress beyond individual Senedd terms.

A spokesperson for Shelter Cymru said: “While additional investment is always welcome, the reality is that Wales faces a deepening housing crisis. More must be done to accelerate the delivery of affordable homes and tackle the root causes of housing inequality.”

With the next Senedd election approaching, housing is expected to remain a key battleground, with political parties setting out competing visions for tackling the crisis.

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