WARRINGTON South MP Andy Carter has welcomed news that the Government “will do whatever it takes” to secure the future of Chester Zoo.
Following a zoom meeting earlier this morning with Kieren Mullen MP, Ed Timpson MP and Esther McVey MP, along with Zac Goldsmith Minister of State for International Environment, Climate and Forests, and Animal Welfare – they were able to convey the strength of local feeling to Ministers and help guarantee Government funding will be made available.
Mr Carter said: “This is the positive news we’ve been looking for; we’ve been able to make the case that Chester Zoo’s future must be secured and we’ve now had an absolute commitment from Government that they will do whatever it takes to deliver the support the zoo through the Pandemic.
“On Friday we were able to engage fully with the zoo’s management team to understand what was needed, The Minister made time to meet us on Sunday morning and we’ve been able to demonstrate the strength of local feeling
“Chester Zoo is such an important part of life in the region, not only does it do incredible environmental and conservation work, it’s a very important part of the local economy supporting thousands of jobs.”
“The Minister has agreed to look at how the zoo can re-open as soon as possible in a safe and welcoming way for families, staff and of course the animals. We’ve been able to explain how much space there is at the zoo so that social distancing can be maintained as well as highlighting the ways in which the zoo will adjust the visitor experience to make it Covid compliant.
He added: “I know that so many people want to see the zoo open again and welcoming visitors, Zac also gave a guarantee that officials will continue to look at how this can be done as soon as possible, safely, working with DEFRA, the zoo’s management team and local health protection officers .
“Thank you to all the supporters of the zoo for the enormous generosity they have shown in response to their appeal.
“Chester Zoo’s work must be allowed to continue and this financial guarantee will preserve the long term future of the zoo.”
Earlier this week the government had ordered that the zoo may have to stay closed indefinitely, which left the zoo on the brink of extinction.
Not being able to open, despite being a huge outdoor site with all the necessary safety measures in place, is having a devastating impact on the much-loved zoo, which is heading towards debt in excess of £24m by the end of 2020.
The zoo needs to raise £1.6m each month to keep going.
