Paignton Zoo's new owner has announced the most significant redevelopment of the site in its 103-year history.
Libéma, a Dutch leisure company overseeing more than 20 businesses, including four zoos, took over the operation of Paignton Zoo, as well as Newquay Zoo, on 1 January.
Now, the company has revealed plans to transform the entire site into four themed zones with a completely new layout.
These zones are called Grasslands, Wetlands, Rainforests and Islands, and will be connected by a central plaza overlooking the main lake.
Work has already started at Paignton Zoo, with the first major phase of the project underway in the new Grasslands zone.
Here, the existing giraffe paddock is being expanded into a large mixed-species savannah for giraffes, zebras, ostrich and blesbok.
Also, a new plains habitat is currently being developed for the white rhinoceros, supporting the zoo’s ongoing role in conservation and species management.
The wider Grasslands area will also include habitats inspired by different continents.
New habitats and species
For example, in a South American-inspired habitat, guests will see rheas and vicuñas. A Central Asia-themed habitat will house Bactrian camels and yaks
Work is also underway on the new Wetlands zone, where a new habitat is being prepared for sitatunga, a rare antelope species known for its ability to move through water.
Plans are progressing across the Rainforests and Islands zones, as are further developments on the zoo's indoor habitats, where species such as babirusa, saki monkeys, and Komodo dragons are expected to feature.
Beyond Paignton Zoo's animal habitats, the transformation includes new pathways, improved visitor flow, enhanced play areas and updated F&B facilities.
"What we’re doing is not just updating individual habitats, but rethinking the entire visitor experience and how we tell the story of the animals in our care," said Steven van den Heuvel, transition manager for Paignton Zoo.
"Grasslands is the first major step, but it’s part of a much bigger transformation happening across the whole site. Over time, visitors will see new species, new habitats, and a completely new way of exploring the zoo."
Paignton Zoo's conservation work, including international breeding programmes for endangered species, will continue alongside the redevelopment.
Conservation work to continue
In addition, plans are underway to introduce new fundraising initiatives to support conservation projects in the UK and overseas.
"Importantly, this evolution stays true to what Paignton Zoo has always stood for," Van Den Heuvel added.
"Conservation, education, and animal welfare remain at the heart of everything we do, and this investment allows us to strengthen that work for the future.”
Images courtesy of Paignton Zoo
