Chester Zoo given green light to open from council, just needs government approval

Council environmental health officers have given Chester Zoo the green light to reopen with safeguards in place, now the zoo just needs the government to grant permission. 

Yesterday Chester Zoo voiced its concerns regarding the survival of the much-loved zoo unless it can raise £1.6m a month to continue its efforts. 

The Zoo took to Facebook to announce the concern and has sucessfully raised over £800,000 in less than 24 hours.

Chester Zoo has raised an inconsistency of allowing giant outdoor spaces to open without capacities on numbers or successful managment of social distancing, something which the zoo could put into practise. 

Cheshire West and Chester Council leader Cllr Louise Gittins said in a statement: “The council’s environmental health officers have been involved in Chester Zoo’s preparations for a safe opening and we are confident that the measures being taken will enable the zoo to operate safely, with significant public health measures in place.

“We fully support the campaign launched today by Chester Zoo, and call on government to apply more consistency and evidence in its plans for safe re-opening, with the support of local public health teams.”

Clare Hayward MBE (Chair of Cheshire and Warrington Local Enterprise Partner) and Angie Robinson (chair of Marketing Cheshire) issued a joint statement that read: “Public safety is our number one concern as the attractions and businesses in our region start to re-open.

“We know, as one of the UK’s leading visitor attractions, just how seriously Chester Zoo have taken their preparations to open in a Covid-secure way, making every possible adjustment to ensure the wellbeing of visitors, staff and the animals.”

Secretary Bob Clough-Parker said: “What on earth is the rationale for lifting restrictions on open spaces including National Trust parks, beaches, etc but then seeking to keep the open-air zoo closed. It’s nonsensical and represents a ludicrous example of topsy-turvy thinking.

“The zoo is a major contributor to the economy of Chester and therefore to the prosperity of its businesses and residents. We urge the Prime Minister to reverse the decision – and swiftly.”

Jamie Christon, Chester Zoo’s Chief Operating Officer will guest speak at the club’s virtual meeting on Tuesday 9th June.