Perth Zoo’s masterplan has received government investment of $43.5m, with construction on the first two developments – a new café and function centre – set to start before the end of 2021.
“For 123 years, Perth Zoo has provided wonderful memories for so many Western Australians,” said Premier of Western Australia Mark McGowan.
The masterplan focuses on creating new animal habitats and improving the visitor experience. It includes a new conservation centre and plaza-style zoo entrance, as well as a treehouse and play area.
“Now the time has come for the zoo to get a new lease on life – and this 20-year master plan will deliver on that,” McGowan added. “The first two developments, a new café and new function facilities, will break ground later this year.Â
New animal habitats
“These two community amenities will be unlike anything currently offered in metropolitan Perth and will be unique venues for dining and special events.”
In addition, the giraffe and tiger habitats and meerkat exhibit will be extended, while a new orangutan jungle will be constructed to support the Perth Zoo’s orangutan programme.
The new orangutan habitat will feature six large tents and significantly increased space for the animals, with a boardwalk through the tents offering an immersive experience for guests.
The primate habitat will also be expanded to include treetop tunnels. Other projects in the plan include the Lemur Raceway, which will boast overhead raceways for gibbons and lemurs.
Improved visitor experience
“The transformation of Perth Zoo will provide opportunities for many more generations to come to connect with wildlife and learn about conservation,” said Environment Minister Amber-Jade Sanderson.
“The master plan will enable the zoo animals to have expanded habitats offering all the creature comforts they require, whilst supporting the breeding and research programs that are aimed at fighting extinction.”
Elsewhere, British zoos have been forced to cut or delay conservation funding following losses of £200 million due to COVID-19, according to an estimate by i.
Images: Perth Zoo
