Twycross re-opened on Monday after rule changes
Cash-strapped attraction says it still needs help due to virus
FAMILIES can go and see their favourite animals at Twycross Zoo again as the amenity reopened on Monday.
Bosses at the conservation centre were devastated to learn two weeks ago that zoos had been put on a list of venues that could not open despite the coronavirus lockdown easing.
But that policy has now changed, with zoos, safari parks and drive-in cinemas given the green light to relaunch from Monday June 15.
Visitors must book a slot online for when they will be coming, as guest numbers have to be kept low to allow adequate social distancing.
A one-way route is in place around the zoo to keep people evenly spread, with protection screens in place at all pay and information points.
All food and refreshments will be served as takeaway options.
The zoo has struggled to cover its £650,000-a-month costs since closing to visitors on March 23, launching an appeal for public support while asking the Government for funding.
It had hoped to get money from a state funding pot set up to help zoos through the Covid-19 outbreak, but it was too large to qualify.
Dr Sharon Redrobe, chief executive of Twycross Zoo, said: “The last few months have been a real rollercoaster, but the support we have received has been humbling and has left us yet more determined to fight every battle needed to ensure the survival of our 57-year old zoo.”
She added: “While we are delighted to be able to reopen safely it is only the first step in what will be a long and uncertain road to recovery, but this decision gives us hope.
“We need to continue to work hard now to secure vital Government funding for large zoos, to aid in the financial crisis we find ourselves in and protect our future.”
Social distancing markers and signage are in place across the site.
Some indoor areas and play areas are temporarily closed for safety and in line with regulations.
There are also many hygiene points and handwashing facilities across the 100-acre outdoor site.
Karen Clarke, chief operating officer at Twycross Zoo, said: “We are delighted to be finally welcoming visitors back to our award-winning zoo, though we will be remaining extremely cautious and keeping our staff, visitors and animals safe, will remain our top priority.
“We have been preparing for this day for some time and have implemented considerable changes to ensure we are a safe place to visit.
“Visitors and members have shown us enormous support during this period, and it will be wonderful to welcome them back safely to enjoy a day out next week.”
Dr Luke Evans, MP for Bosworth, said he was delighted to hear that the zoo is reopening.
He said: “I’ve been working with and campaigning for Twycross Zoo since prior to lockdown having asked questions in PMQs, written to DEFRA, DCMS, the Treasury and the Prime Minister, and having had meetings with several ministers.
“Closing the gates was necessary but nevertheless devastating to the zoo’s business model, which in turn jeopardised their conservation programmes and the animals they look after.
“I’m delighted that they can now open their gates next week.
“Reopening means that Twycross Zoo will be able to access their most important source of income once more, but they are not out of the woods yet.
“Visitor numbers will have to be kept relatively low and financial support from the Government will be needed.
“Dr Sharon Redrobe and her team at Twycross have done a remarkable job in raising awareness of the challenges that all good zoos face. I will continue to work with Sharon and lobby ministers to seek reassurances that Twycross Zoo will receive help through the next tough period of lifting lockdown.” Stuart Bray, leader of Hinckley and Bosworth Borough Council, has written to the Prime Minister to call for support for the zoo.
Cllr Bray said: “Twycross Zoo has never faced a challenge to its survival such as this one in its proud 57 year history.”
He added: “The devastating financial impact of this extended period of closure on the future of this institution is alarming, not only for the impact on the endangered species and animal conservation work but also for the many livelihoods Twycross Zoo sustains in the Hinckley and Bosworth area.
“The council has been working closely with senior officials at Twycross Zoo throughout the closure and we were very concerned to learn from them that the zoo is not eligible for the covid-19 zoo support the government unveiled earlier this year.
“The future of now precarious.
“The council has already raised this issue with ministers through the District Council Network.
“Now I have written to the Prime Minister and urged him to review the funding available to larger zoos such as Twycross without delay.”
Full details of the safety measures in place are available on the Twycross Zoo website.
You can also donate to the conservation centre or become a member through the website.
We need to continue to work hard now to secure vital Government funding for large zoos
Twycross Zoo is