The UK’s Wild Place Project will be known as Bristol Zoo Project from next summer following the integration of two zoo sites.
Bristol Zoo Gardens in Clifton, the fifth oldest zoo in the world, closed in September after 186 years. It is relocating and merging with its sister site, the Wild Place Project.
Formerly called Wild Place Project, Bristol Zoo Project will be the Bristol Zoological Society’s 136-acre visitor attraction.
The zoo said the new name “reflects the charity’s past and future”. It was chosen after polling guests, employees and volunteers.
New 136-acre zoo
“We are on a journey,” said Justin Morris, chief executive of the Bristol Zoological Society (via Bristol Live).
“Wild animals are under threat of extinction and we think zoos have an important role to play to address this ecological crisis, which is why we are investing in our 136-acre site.
“It won’t be quick. We are finalising the designs and construction is planned to start in 2024. Changing the name of our site marks the start of that journey.”
At Bristol Zoo Project, 80 percent of species “will be linked to our conservation work around the world, living in spaces that more closely reflect their natural habitats,” said Brian Zimmerman, director of conservation for Bristol Zoological Society.
News of the name change comes days before the zoo’s plan to redevelop the Clifton site goes before city councillors. Planning officers have recommended the application be approved.
The decision to close Bristol Zoo Gardens was announced in November 2020. The new zoo will focus on conservation and education. It will include a conservation learning centre and medicine centre.
Bristol Zoo Project will be home to a group of endangered cherry-crowned mangabey monkeys, as well as endangered African grey parrots.
The zoo’s troop of critically endangered western lowland gorillas and blue-eyed black lemurs are being moved to the new location.
Images: Bristol Zoological Society
