South Lakes Safari Zoo, originally known as South Lakes Wild Animal Park, is a 51-acre (21 ha) zoo located in Cumbria, England, near the Lake District. The zoo was established in 1994 by David Gill and quickly became one of Cumbria’s most successful tourist attractions. However, the zoo also had a number of controversies under Gill’s ownership, including concerns over animal welfare and the death of an employee, which eventually led to Gill losing his license to operate the zoo in 2017.
The Establishment and Early Years of South Lakes Zoo
In 1994, David Gill founded the South Lakes Wild Animal Park, which later became known as South Lakes Safari Zoo. The zoo was established on a 51-acre (21 ha) site in Cumbria, England, near the picturesque Lake District. Gill’s vision was to create a unique and immersive zoo experience that would attract visitors from across the region and beyond.
During the early years, the zoo quickly gained popularity and became one of Cumbria’s most successful tourist attractions. Gill’s focus on creating a hands-on, interactive experience for visitors, along with the zoo’s diverse collection of animals, contributed to its growing success.
Controversies and Challenges Under Gill’s Ownership
Despite the zoo’s initial success, it also faced a number of controversies and challenges during Gill’s ownership. Concerns were raised over the welfare of the animals, with reports of poor living conditions and inadequate care. In 2013, a tragic incident occurred when a zookeeper was mauled to death by a Sumatran tiger, leading to a fine of £255,500 plus fees for the zoo due to health and safety breaches.
In 2017, further investigations revealed that nearly 500 animals had died in a three-year period, many of them in cruel circumstances. This led to the zoo being debated in parliament, with RSPCA inspectors obtaining a search warrant and compiling a report of their findings.
The Takeover by Cumbria Zoo Company Ltd
In 2017, Cumbria Zoo Company Ltd took full control of the zoo, and since then, there has been a “marked improvement” in animal welfare. The new management has implemented several changes, including the addition of qualified, experienced staff, improvements to animal enclosures, and upgrades to visitor facilities.
One of the key changes was the appointment of Lyndsay as the Education Officer. Lyndsay has designed new workshops and worksheets, and developed networks with peers in other zoos to enhance the educational offerings at South Lakes Zoo.
The zoo has also begun working with Uncle Pablo and Co to refresh its online presence and increase its digital marketing efforts, making the zoo more accessible to potential visitors.
Ongoing Improvements and Challenges
While the new management has made significant strides in improving the zoo’s operations, the facility has continued to face challenges. In 2018, Barrow council voted to grant the Cumbria Zoo Company Ltd a four-year license, after inspectors gave positive reports on the improvements made.
However, the zoo’s history of animal welfare issues and negative press has left a lasting impact, and the new management team must continue to work diligently to rebuild the zoo’s reputation and ensure the well-being of its animal residents.
Conclusion
The history of South Lakes Safari Zoo is a complex and multifaceted one, with both successes and challenges. From its establishment in 1994 to the controversies under Gill’s ownership and the subsequent takeover by Cumbria Zoo Company Ltd, the zoo has undergone a significant transformation.
While the new management has made impressive strides in improving animal welfare and visitor experience, the zoo’s past issues continue to linger. As the zoo moves forward, it will be crucial for the team to maintain their focus on animal care, educational initiatives, and public engagement to solidify South Lakes Safari Zoo’s position as a premier destination for wildlife enthusiasts and families alike.
References:
– Freedom for Animals – South Lakes Horror Zoo
– South Lakes Safari Zoo – 52 Weeks in
– The Guardian – South Lakes Safari Zoo Animal Deaths
– Kiddle – South Lakes Safari Zoo
– North-West Evening Mail – Timeline of Key Events