An urban explorer has documented the remains of the UK's first SeaLife centre, which has been left abandoned for six years with tanks still full of water and supplies of animal feed and cleaning products untouched.
Daniel Sims, who posts on YouTube as BeardedReality, visited the Barcaldine SeaLife Centre on the shores of Loch Creran in Oban, Scotland. The attraction first opened in 1979, but closed its doors in October 2018 after a significant drop in visitor numbers. It was known for its otter sanctuary, launched in 2002, and a seal rescue and rehabilitation centre.
Mr Sims said the site was difficult to locate due to overgrowth and poor weather conditions. After finding the gift shop, he and his companion realised the rest of the buildings had been left with contents intact. He said: "There were cleaning chemicals and hazardous materials that shouldn't have been left. There was food for the animals left, which was really weird."
Inside, he found a large circular tank that still contained water, apparently undrained for six years. While one side of a tank had been smashed by vandals, other tanks were untouched. He spent most of his time in the seal section, noting that the glass in aquariums is very thick and the damage must have taken considerable effort.
The Scottish Sea Life Sanctuary announced its closure in 2018, stating: "Sadly visitor numbers to the attraction have been in decline and after comprehensively reviewing every possible option, there isn't a viable way to sustain the significant investment that is required in order to keep the sanctuary open." The statement added the decision was reached with a heavy heart.
