New big cat house at Blackpool Zoo given the go ahead

Investment will see the current cat house partially demolished and replaced with a single storey building providing better facilities for both the animals and visitors, as well as a bigger paddock.

Planning officers, who used their delegated powers to grant the application, said the proposals fitted with council policies designed to protect the welfare of the animals and preserve the quality of the zoo as an attraction.

In making their decision, they said: “The local plan expects developments at the zoo to maintain or enhance the visual appeal, character and amenity of the grounds and adjoining conservation area.

“Proposals that provide for the proper care and welfare of zoo animals are to be encouraged.

“The new enclosures and big cat house would provide a modern facility in which to maintain and look after the animals and this would contribute towards the proper care of the animals.”

The decision notice adds: “The scheme would improve the facilities in which the animals live and are cared for and would in turn improve the visitor experience for guests by modernising and enhancing the attraction overall.”

Plans to redevelop the cat house, whose residents currently include tiger Alyona and lions Wallace and Khari, also include providing a 5.3 metre high security fence.

The new structure at the East Park Drive zoo will provide about 100 metres square of additional paddock space.

The plans show two public viewing dens, pens for looking after the animals, and accommodation for keepers plus an area for deliveries.

A covered veranda will be created at the front of the building to provide a public sheltered area for views into the pens and to the paddocks.

The big cat house design will be themed following the completion of building work with signage and information about the animals.

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