Woodlands Family Theme Park, located near Dartmouth in Devon, was ordered to suspend nine of its rides following a safety inspection by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE). The suspension came after the park was unable to present valid safety checks for these rides, raising serious public safety concerns.
The HSE conducted the inspection on 26 June as part of a nationwide initiative targeting safety compliance at both fixed and mobile amusement rides. During the inspection, authorities discovered that “declarations of compliance” for the affected rides were missing. This issue arose after the suspension of David Geary, a director of DMG Technical Limited, from the Amusement Device Inspection Procedures Scheme (ADIPS).
ADIPS is the recognized industry standard for inspecting and certifying fairground rides and amusement devices. Established in partnership with the HSE, its goal is to uphold safety standards and instill confidence among the public.
READ MORE: Somerset Duo Launch Unique Willy Wonka-Style Chocolate Factory
READ MORE: Independent Taunton Urges Community Support to Revive the Town Centre
Following the discovery, the HSE took immediate enforcement action to prevent the rides from operating until valid safety checks were conducted. Woodlands Family Theme Park acted promptly, arranging for another registered inspection body to carry out the necessary assessments. This resulted in the issuance of new Declarations of Compliance, enabling the rides to reopen with minimal delay.
HSE inspector Melissa Lai-Hung emphasized the priority of public safety, stating, “While enforcement actions can cause inconvenience, especially during peak season, it is essential that amusement parks maintain rigorous safety standards to protect visitors.”
Woodlands Family Theme Park responded with a statement underscoring their commitment to safety: “We take HSE-related compliance legislation very seriously. Upon notification, all rides underwent reinspection by a registered inspector. Woodlands would never engage in any form of safety non-compliance and remains dedicated to maintaining the highest industry standards.”
The quick response and cooperation between the park and the HSE helped resolve the issue efficiently, minimizing disruption to visitors while reinforcing safety assurances.