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Bristol Zoo and Wild Place Project to reopen
Bristol Zoo and the Wild Place Project can start planning how and when they will reopen, following a u-turn on guidance from the Government.
An announcement came last night that zoos could start to reopen from next week, following an intense period of talks and lobbying.
Bristol Zoo and the Wild Place Project closed on March 21 and have lost several million pounds over the past few months.
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Bristol Zoological Society, which runs both attractions, says that it plans to open the Wild Place Project before Bristol Zoo, with more detailed guidance is expected to come from central Government on June 13.
The society is implementing new measures to ensure visitor safety, such as essential purchase of tickets online in advance, one-way systems and extra handwashing facilities.
Bristol Zoo and the Wild Place Project have been shut since March 21. Photo: Bristol Zoological Society
“This is fantastic news and a great step forward,” says Dr Justin Morris, chief executive of Bristol Zoological Society.
“We are all thrilled to think that we can re-open our doors again and we want to thank everyone for the incredible support they have shown us during this difficult time.”
Bristol Zoological Society not only operates Bristol Zoo and Wild Place Project but also supports conservation breeding, science, education and research.
The society has been running an appeal while being shut, so that the attractions can be maintained and staff can be paid.
“There is no doubt that this is excellent news for us as well as zoos across the UK,” Morris says. “But we are still in a very difficult position financially and we are not on safe ground yet.”
Dr Justin Morris says the the zoo is still in a difficult financial position. Photo: Barbara Evripidou
Nonetheless, the society is looking forward to welcoming visitors again.
“We have gone to considerable lengths to ensure that when we do open again all our visitors as well as our staff and volunteers will be safe,” says Morris.
“We are bringing in these measures to ensure we can control the number of people on site and offer everyone a safe, responsible and enjoyable visit.”
Main photo: Charlie Marshall
Read more: Bristol Zoo launches fundraising appeal
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