‘End of an era’ Shock news sparks an outpouring of visitor memories
GENERATIONS of Bristolians and visitors flooded social media with memories of family days out, school excursions and birthday trips to the muchloved attraction following the annoucement of the move.
Margaret Warner wrote: “What a loss to the city – it’s the 5th oldest zoo and the oldest provincial zoo in the world and is renowned for its breeding programmes for endangered species for zoos all over the world.
“I went there as a child every school holiday and would have loved to have worked there as the keepers had such close contact with the animals.
“I was disappointed when I visited about 10 years ago that most of the animals had gone to bigger zoos with more space although obviously much better for them.
“It’s sad that Bristol has lost so much of its heritage.”
Alicia Webster called it the “end of an era”, adding: “Hopefully the sale of the site should raise lots of money to be ploughed back into the bigger venue to make lovely new homes for the animals.”
Some people were concerned about the traffic impact of relocating to the Wild Place Project, which is near the M5 and other out-of
town attractions including The Mall at Cribbs Causeway.
Bob Starr, also commenting on Facebook, wrote: “Excluding the benefit of relocating the larger animals to better facilities it is the sad loss of a facility easily accessible by all and a wonderful community focused place to meet and enjoy the grounds and smaller animals and fish etc.
“The Wild Place is a nightmare to access in the summer with the
motorway overflowing.”
Bristol Zoological Society has confirmed it will submit a transport plan in due course to consider the impact on traffic, prior to the relocation.
Several readers expressed their disagreement with zoos in general and animals being kept in captivity.
However, many were at least happy that the move will allow animals access to bigger and better enclosures, as the site is much larger. Barney Taylor Furleger commented: “Bristol Zoo was just outdated and too small. Now they have a great chance to create a decent, world-class venue with an amazing conservation programme.
“Plus the opportunity to have decent parking (without turning The Downs into a car park!) and to attract people into the area.”
Lucia Facetti Hutcheson added: “I’m glad the animals will all be in much better surroundings. I will happily visit them in their new home.
“I am a bit concerned that the old zoo and buildings will turn into a luxury gated community for the very few.”
Bristol mayor Marvin Rees welcomed the move.
He said in a statement: “In the face of financial challenge, the zoo has made the very best decision for not only animal welfare and its staff, but for future generations who will have the opportunity to visit and learn at a world-class zoo offering spacious, modern, accessible facilities.
“We are grateful the zoo has pledged to make responsible decisions for the site when it closes in 2022, retaining the beautiful gardens, and ensuring any development builds homes only where existing buildings have previously been, and offers affordable housing.”