Carmarthen campaigners urge council to pause Wilko demolition

Campaigners and representatives from Buzz Parks held a protest in Carmarthen to demand that Carmarthenshire County Council pause the planned demolition of the former Wilko building. The council has scheduled demolition to begin on October 26 to facilitate the rebuilding of the site and its adjacent 250-space car park.

Buzz Parks, which currently operates a venue in Swansea, has expressed interest in leasing the building for 20 years to transform it into a family entertainment centre. The proposed development would include a trampoline park, rock climbing, soft play, a zip wire, virtual reality rooms, and a sports bar. The company also intends to include dedicated facilities for children with additional learning needs.

Organizers of the protest, including community campaigner Scott Bayes, argue that the council should re-engage with the firm to avoid losing a significant investment opportunity. Buzz Parks estimates the centre could attract between 2,000 and 2,500 families to the Carmarthen town centre weekly. The firm has stated it is willing to invest its own capital into the improvements.