Owner begins removal of two unsafe structures damaged by high winds
UNSAFE structures at Barry Island Pleasure Park are due to be removed as demolition gets under way at the popular tourist attraction.
The two tin-roofed enclosures, used to house old rides and sideshows, are being demolished at the back lot of Barry Island Pleasure Park.
The first of these has already been dismantled after its roof was blown off in high winds.
“Both structures were becoming dangerous with the tin sheets from one blowing into the adjacent highway,” said owner Henry Danter, 76, from Symonds Yat West.
“We felt that we had to take action immediately and quickly.”
Henry Danter bought Barry Island Pleasure Park back in 2015 and undertook a £20 million redevelopment of the amusement park.
But according to Danter, these back lot buildings were left with no outer walls or foundation.
“They are both unsafe and an eyesore,” he said.
He said the structures had been partly demolished by the fairground’s previous owner.
Work began on January 7 with the removal of the first of the damaged structures.
“It has been removed by a qualified workforce, taking roofing sheets off, unbolting uprights and taken offsite,” said Danter.
He said all material from the structure had already been removed and stored for possible re-use.
Charlie Hunter, principal building control officer at the Vale of Glamorgan Council, had advised that Danter would need to apply for planning permission before taking down the two structures.
However, due to safety concerns, Danter removed the structures immediately.
Demolition of these buildings will also open up space in the grounds of the amusement park.
Mr Danter said the space would initially be incorporated into the existing parking area and would give better access to the amusements as well as a better view.
It has not been decided what to do with the space in the long term.
