Plans for a new £600 million medieval-themed park in Oxfordshire, England, have drawn controversy due to allegations of past ties between the project's owner and Russian President Vladimir Putin. French leisure company Puy du Fou announced the proposal for the 400-acre park last summer, stating it would create hundreds of local jobs and boost tourism. Backers include the tourist organization Visit Britain and Blenheim Palace.
However, concerns have been raised by local residents and activists regarding the background of Puy du Fou's owner, Philippe de Villiers. Critics point to a 2014 meeting between de Villiers and Putin in Crimea, which had recently been annexed by Russia. At the time, despite EU sanctions against Russia, de Villiers reportedly praised Putin's "grand vision and charisma" and criticized EU sanctions. He also accused the European Union of imposing a "reign of terror."
De Villiers' business partner in the proposed Crimean theme park project was Konstantin Malofeev, a Russian oligarch described as a close Putin ally. Malofeev, who through his media network Tsargrad promoted a return to Russia's imperial past, was also financially backing the Russian park plan. Both the EU and US have accused Malofeev of financing pro-Russian separatist movements in eastern Ukraine. Notably, Malofeev's wife, Maria Lvova-Belova, is the subject of an International Criminal Court arrest warrant for the alleged unlawful deportation of children from Ukraine to Russia, a role she holds as Putin's appointed Presidential Commissioner for Children's Rights.
Local opposition has focused on potential traffic and infrastructure strain, but the alleged connections to Putin have amplified concerns. Residents have questioned the source of funding for the project and the ethical implications of engaging with a company linked to individuals associated with the Russian regime.
Puy du Fou has defended its past dealings, stating that in 2014-2015, they liaised with French and EU authorities regarding potential projects in Russia. They claim that after sanctions were imposed, they ceased contact with Russian authorities and representatives in 2014. The company asserts that they explored potential project options in the Moscow region as any reasonable business would, and once it was clear Russia was not withdrawing from Crimea and sanctions were launched, they withdrew from all potential projects and partners in Russia. Puy du Fou maintains they have had no involvement or interests in Russia since then.
The proposed Oxfordshire park would be modeled on Puy du Fou's existing parks in France and Spain, which focus on historical reenactments and live shows rather than traditional rides. The plans include four period villages, 13 live shows, three themed hotels, and a conference center. The park is projected to create 2,000 jobs and is slated to open in 2029, pending a decision from Cherwell District Council later this year.