Colchester Zoo in Essex has announced plans to become a charitable trust and expand its animal habitats, with many of these “tripling in size”.
The attraction, which opened opened in 1963 and is celebrating its 60th anniversary this year, aims to become one of the UK’s leading zoos.
As of January 2025, the commercial zoo will become a charitable trust known as Colchester Zoological Society.
The zoo has released an image of how it could look in the future. However, the rebuilding plans would be subject to surveys, consent and planning permission.
In a statement, Colchester Zoo said it hopes to create many new jobs for the community. In addition, it is “thinking of ways” to reduce its carbon footprint.
“A bigger zoo will not necessarily see the arrival of many new species – but will ensure that every animal we have, will have better and bigger facilities, with many habitats tripling in size,” it added.
New species may include gorillas, bonobos and the okapi “to retain very much the African theme we have had over the years”.
“Of course, all of this cannot be achieved overnight,” Colchester Zoo added.
Animal habitats to triple in size
“Surveys and planning permission application is required and granted before anything can start and we need to build the funds to fulfil these plans to the highest standard possible.”
Colchester Zoo is home to more than 160 species across 60 acres. It hopes to become a zoo “that the local community will be proud of”.
“We strongly believe that this vision will secure a future which will allow us to achieve our mission and revolutionise the zoo as we know it today,” it said.
Earlier this year, Chester Zoo’s planning application for a new snow leopard habitat was approved. Additionally, its new ‘Heart of Africa’ zone and hotel project are advancing.
Images: Colchester Zoo
