AFTER taking the concerns of local residents directly to the Prime Minister with his Cheshire colleagues, local MP Andy Carter says he is delighted that Chester Zoo can reopen next Monday (June 15).
The news comes as the zoo prepares to celebrate its 89th birthday.
Boris Johnson is to announce that zoos, safari parks and drive-in cinemas can reopen in England from next Monday, in the latest easing of the coronavirus lockdown.
The Prime Minister will update the nation on the easing of the restrictions at today’s Downing Street briefing, as he sets about plans to reopen the economy while minimising Covid-19’s rate of transmission.
The news has been welcomed by residents, Cheshire MPs and local councillors, who have campaigned for Chester Zoo to reopen safely, including hosting a Zoom call with Zoos Minister Zach Goldsmith, where they highlighted the incredible conservation work and dedication of the team there.
Warrington South MP Andy Carter said it was great news, not only for the staff and animals, but also the many visitors who love the popular tourist attraction.
He said: “This is really welcome news, it’s great for visitors, employees and most importantly the animals at Chester Zoo.
“Working with Cheshire Conservative MPs and councillors we’ve been able to raise the issue with the PM, he’s listened and taken the right decision.
“I know Chester Zoo has been preparing to re-open for the last few weeks, I very much hope not that people from across Cheshire will now support them and enjoy a great day out.”
Echoing Mr Carter’s sentiment, Dr Kieran Mullan, the MP for Crewe and Nantwich said:“We pushed for the zoo to get support, no ifs ands or buts. And that is what has been delivered. So many residents wanted me to get behind the zoo and I want to thank all of them for their efforts in raising the issue with me. The zoo worked really hard to show government they could openly safely and should be very proud of their passion and care for their animals.”
Eddisbury MP, Edward Timpson, said he was also delighted with the news.
He said: “It’s fantastic that the Government has heard our concerns and decided to permit the zoo to reopen from Monday.
“I would like to thank all concerned constituents for raising this matter and donating to the zoo’s cause and Defra for listening to myself and my colleagues.”
The Prime Minister will say at the Downing Street press conference that zoos can reopen next week as long as they can uphold social distancing rules.
He will also announce the easing of restrictions on outdoor attractions where people remain in their cars, such as safari parks and drive-in cinemas, because the risk of spreading the disease is lower outside.
The move will pave the way for zoos to reopen in England alongside non-essential shops.
A Downing Street official said: “People are continuing to make huge sacrifices to reduce the spread of coronavirus and avoid a second spike, but we know it is tough and where we can safely open up more attractions, and it is supported by the science, we will do so.
“This is by necessity a careful process, but we hope the reopening of safari parks and zoos will help provide families with more options to spend time outdoors while supporting the industry caring for these incredible animals.”
An oficial statement on the Zoo facebook page said:
” A week ago we were in despair, not knowing when we would reopen, or if we could even survive much longer…
BUT YOUR VOICES HAVE BEEN HEARD! 📣
“We have JUST received the news that we’ll be able to open safely from 15 June.
“Your support has been incredible. Every kind donation, every word of support. It really is making a HUGE difference.
“The fight isn’t over for us just yet. But, for now, we want to celebrate this huge moment of relief with you.
“There’s no denying that we have suffered severe financial damage over the past three months and the road to recovery will be long and uncertain. But, your incredibly kind donations, animal adoptions and memberships are giving us a vital lifeline.
“Over the next few days we’ll be letting you know when and how you’ll be able to book a ticket to visit. Please bear with us while we do this.
“From the bottom of our hearts, thank you. You are SAVING OUR ZOO.”
