Natural Vision
We have some really exciting and ambitious plans to improve the zoo for you and our animals.
Natural Vision, our long term expansion plan, will transform the zoo into a world class animal and visitor experience.
Planning Approval
Planning permission for the project was formally received in November 2010 from Cheshire West & Chester Council and the Secretary of State, the Rt Hon Eric Pickles MP.
Natural Vision will be built in a series of phases between 2012 and 2024 and will allow us to develop a number of themed zones linked to our animal collection and international conservation programmes.
The core zoo will expand by approximately a third to cover 50 hectares, becoming one of the largest zoos in Europe.
Islands
The first phase is Islands and will feature the delicate habitats and diverse ecosystems of Madagascar, Mauritius, Sumatra and other South East Asian island groups.
Below is an artist's impression of the Islands project, however you can download a detailed Islands presentation here. (Note that it's a large PDF file, 10mb.)
We welcome your views and invite you to complete our feedback form.
An artist's impression of Islands
This exciting exhibit, which will include an Indonesian show house, a boat ride and underwater viewing of animals, is scheduled to open in 2015.
Species will include Sumatran Orangutans and Tigers, Komodo Dragons, several Lemur groups, Fruit Bats and Crocodiles.
Experience Cheshire
This zone will centre around the 19th century Oakfield Manor and will showcase Cheshire heritage, with linked attractions including native wildlife areas, Ancient Cheshire and an expanded food and beverage offer.
Work has begun on designing this zone and restoring Oakfield Manor to its original appearance.
Themed Hotel
One of the key elements in transforming the zoo into a two-day experience for our visitors is the creation of this 150-bed, themed hotel. It will be built with environmentally friendly materials and will be integrated into the themed zones.
Environment
Whilst the Natural Vision masterplan increases the size of the core zoo by approximately 30%, the majority of the zoo’s extensive land bank remains unaffected, and protected from development by its Green Belt status and by our commitment to maintaining it in an unspoilt state.
This land is home to a wide range of native wildlife species, including Great crested newts, Badgers, bats and a great diversity of birds.
Economy
It is estimated that Natural Vision will safeguard more than 500 jobs in the region, and will create a further 660+ jobs in the zoo and surrounding area - many associated with the hotel development.
Corporate Sponsorship
If your business is interested in supporting our projects you can get in touch with our Development Team on 01244 650 289 / 01244 650 265 or email development@chesterzoo.org