Chester Zoo appeals for help after being told by the Government to prepare to shut “indefinitely”
More than £1 million has been raised in just a mere 24 hours for the UK’s beloved Chester Zoo, after it has been said lockdown has left the tourist attraction at risk of closing the gates for good.
Throughout lockdown Chester Zoo has engaged with visitors by hosting virtual tours via Facebook live videos, with animals including red pandas, elephants, tigers and penguins.
The zoo, which has been closed to visitors since 21st March has been told by the Government to prepare to stay shut “indefinitely”. Chester Zoo has taken to social media to explain the recent unfortunate circumstances. Their Chief Operating Officer, Mr Christon, said it could face a year-end debt of a whopping £24 million, which would cripple the zoo.
Mr Christon opened up to explain that the zoo normally gets 97% of its income from visitors. He then went on to say that the zoo needs more than £1.6 million a month to cover the cost of its staff, 128-acre site, conservation, breeding projects and all of its 35,000 animals.
This heartbreaking news has certainly sparked a debate across the nation. Many MP’s have written to the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, to ask for the zoo to be allowed to reopen, as soon as possible.
Since the zoo’s recent announcement, a crowdfunding page has been set up on Wednesday of this week. Thousands up and down the nation have already donated in order to support the zoo and to protect the welfare of the beautiful animals.
In addition, The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs has said while zoos have not been included in the list of outdoor ticketed venues that can reopen, work “to understand how and when” they may be able to was “ongoing”.
A spokesman added: “We understand the challenges faced by zoos during these unprecedented times. But it’s vital that we do not move too quickly in reopening, to ensure public health is protected.”
“We have provided a £14m support fund to ensure zoos are able to continue to care for their animals.”
How you can show your support for Chester Zoo
To show your support please visit the Government’s official petition page.
If you wish to donate, visit Chester Zoo’s JustGiving campaign.
To view more of our interesting, funny or local articles – click here.
