'Absolutely heartbroken' - West Midlands soft play centre could close after 10 'wonderful' years

A soft-play centre in Kidderminster has announced it will close its doors next year, after almost 10 “wonderful” years, if a buyer can’t be found.

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Kidz Barn, which is located in the Steve Morris Building in Stadium Close, is up for sale and the owners are hoping to find someone to take on the business.

However, they have warned if they are unable to find the right buyer, the doors will be closing in January.

The update was shared by Kidz Barn on social media.

The post said: “After almost 10 wonderful years, the time has come for us to share some very personal news with you all.

“The Kidz Barn is now available for sale, and we are hoping to find someone who will take our little business into its next chapter. If we are unable to find the right buyer, we will sadly be closing our doors in January 2027.

“This is not a decision we have made lightly. The Kidz Barn has been such a huge part of our lives for the past decade, and it is so much more than just a business to us.

“We have made the most incredible memories, watched little ones grow into big kids, and had the privilege of seeing grandparents bring their children, grandchildren and even multiple generations through our doors. We have celebrated birthdays, shared laughter, made friendships and been part of so many special family moments.

“We have also weathered some incredibly difficult times. During COVID, there were moments when we genuinely didn’t know if we would ever reopen our doors. Somehow, we got through those hardest months, and being able to welcome you all back was something we will never forget.

“One of the greatest privileges has been working alongside family and watching our employees become so much more than colleagues — they have become dear friends. The people we have met and the community that has supported us have made these 10 years truly special.

“But life has a way of reminding us when it might be time for a new chapter. After losing my dad this year, facing some health concerns of my own, and watching my youngest baby prepare to start high school, I have found myself reflecting on what matters most and what the next chapter of our lives might look like.

“For me, it feels like the right time to hang up the apron strings and spend more time focusing on family, health and the next stage of life.

“Our biggest hope is that someone will fall in love with The Kidz Barn just as we did and see the potential to take it forward, bringing fresh ideas, new energy and their own special touch to a business that already means so much to so many people.”

Following the announcement, many people have posted messages of support and the owners revealed they had been inundated with messages, phone calls and visits from people interested in taking the business forward.

One person wrote: “I’m absolutely heartbroken, me and my sister spending under ten years of our childhood here & watching younger cousins and my sister basically grow up here going to very much miss this place a lot and appreciate all the amazing staff have done for all of us over the years.”

Another said: “This is gut wrenching news but totally understandable you want something else for your family, thank you for everything you have done for the children of Kidderminster no other soft play compares to kidz barn you always go the extra mile , make absolutely everyone feel included and all members of staff are always professional and polite.”

In reply, the owners wrote: “Thank you again for all the love, support and interest in what we’ve built over the last nearly 10 years. It’s truly heartwarming to see just how much The Kidz Barn means to so many people.

“Whatever the future holds, we feel incredibly lucky to have been part of such a wonderful community.”