20 Sep 2010

The zoo would like to thank a number of organisations, particularly the NWDA, other bodies, individuals and community groups that have supported the project.åÊ

Prof Gordon McGregor Reid, Chester Zoo’s Director General, said: ‰ÛÏThe result is the culmination of years of planning, preparation and public consultation and represents a huge milestone for the zoo.åʉÛÏWe will continue to work with the relevant bodies and neighbouring communities throughout the remainder of this process and would thank everyone involved for their support to date.‰Û

The Natural Vision application, originally submitted in December last year, includes plans for the Heart of Africa Biodome, together with expansion of the main entrance and car park, a themed hotel and conservation college.

The Heart of Africa building is a tropical ecosystem. It will be an African rainforest-themed sanctuary for a band of Gorillas, a large troop of chimpanzees, Okapi and other rare and threatened species.

Given the scope of the project, the plans have automatically been referred to the Government Office North West.

SpeechåÊto Cheshire West & Chester’s Planning Committee åÊåÊby Prof. Gordon McGregor Reid – Director General of North of England Zoological Society.

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