Bristol Zoological Society has shared more details about its plans for Bristol Zoo Gardens as well as new concept art of the 186-year-old site, which closes to the public later this year.
Bristol Zoo Gardens is closing on 3 September 2022 ahead of Bristol Zoo’s relocation to the Wild Place Project in South Gloucestershire. The new Bristol Zoo is set to open in 2024.
“This is a special place in all our hearts. It has always brought people and wildlife together and it will continue to do that,” said Dr Justin Morris, chief executive of Bristol Zoological Society.
186-year-old site closes in September
“It will still be a destination for Bristolians,” Morris added. “It will be a place for the local community, visitors and residents to meet and as we announced before Christmas, the gardens will be open to everyone free of charge for the first time ever.”
The 12-acre site will include a new children’s playground, and the monkey temple, aviary and bear pit will be restored with new planting and seating. The theatre building on the main lawn will be used for cultural and educational activities.
New additions include a conservation hub, as well as a new café at Bristol Zoo Gardens’ iconic entrance building. There are also plans for a public art trail, and the lake will be enhanced to improve the habitat for amphibians and fish.
New Bristol Zoo to open in 2024
“The elements that make this such a special place, such as the secret paths, the mature trees and shrubs and their unique setting, will all remain,” Morris said.
“I genuinely believe the gardens will be a tremendous community asset for all Bristolians, for generations to come.”
In addition, the plans include building approximately 206 homes with solar panels and air source heat pumps. The proposals will be submitted to Bristol City Council later this spring.
He added: “This is our legacy, a lasting gift to the community of Bristol, which we know will be welcomed and enjoyed by generations of people now and well into the future.”
Images: Bristol Zoological Society
