Zoo reopening to uncertain future
JUNE 15 RESTART OFFERS HOPE TO CASH-STARVED ATTRACTION
FAMILIES can go and see their favourite animals at Twycross Zoo again from Monday – as long as they book in advance.
Bosses at the conservation centre were devastated last week to learn that zoos had been put on a list of venues that could not open despite the coronavirus lockdown easing.
But that policy is set to change, with zoos, safari parks and drive-in cinemas to be given the green light to relaunch from June 15.
Visitors must book a slot online for when they will be coming, as numbers have to be kept low to allow adequate social distancing.
A one-way route will be 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 on
March 23, launching an appeal for public support while asking the government for funding.
It had hoped to get money from a state fund set up to help zoos through the Covid-19 outbreak, but it was too big to qualify.
Dr Sharon Redrobe, chief executive of Twycross Zoo, said: “The past 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.
“This is an important day and one
We need to continue to work hard now to secure vital government funding for large zoos
Sharon Redrobe, chief executive
we will never forget.
“While we are delighted to be able to reopen safely next week 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 signs will be in place across the site. Some indoor areas and play areas are temporarily closed in line with regulations.
There will also be several hygiene points and handwashing facilities around the 100-acre outdoor site.
Karen Clarke, chief operating officer at the zoo, said: “We are delighted to be finally welcoming visitors back to our award-winning zoo.
“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.”
Councillor Stuart Bray, leader of Hinckley and Bosworth Borough
Council, has written to the Prime Minister to call for support for the zoo.
Coun Bray said: “Twycross Zoo has never faced a challenge to its survival such as this one in its proud, 57-year history.
“While indications that zoos will be allowed to reopen with social distancing measures in place from Monday are very welcome, 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 Twycross Zoo is 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, where you can also donate to the conservation centre or become a member.