Zoos to start to reopen in England from June 15

We are delighted to learn that today the Prime Minister is expected to announce the reopening of zoos and safari parks in England from the 15th of June. 

A Number 10 spokesperson said: “People are continuing to make huge sacrifices to reduce the spread of coronavirus and avoid a second spike, but we know it is tough and where we can safely open up more attractions, and it is supported by the science, we will do so.

“This is by necessity a careful process, but we hope the reopening of safari parks and zoos will help provide families with more options to spend time outdoors, while supporting the industry caring for these incredible animals.”

For months, BIAZA has been making the case for support to Government through its Public Affairs Working Group and the All-Party Parliamentary Group for Zoos and Aquariums. This work has led to the creation of the £14 million Zoo Support Fund and to this new announcement allowing some zoos and safari parks to reopen. 

Dr Christoph Schwitzer, Chair of BIAZA commented: “It is a reflection of the hard work of the BIAZA community that we are able to see this change in England. Over the last few months, working with our members and other industry leaders we have contacted hundreds of officials and politicians, pushed every button we can so that Government realises the urgency of the situation across our diverse membership.”

“BIAZA is not under any illusions of the challenges we still face. Many of our members, including aquariums and tropical houses are not able to open and members in other nations remain under lockdown. We will continue to make our case across the nations as well as pushing for urgent financial aid to be made available from Governments. We are not out of the woods yet.”

BIAZA will be continuing our lobbying efforts to support safe reopening in the devolved nations and also reopening of aquariums and indoor zoo areas in England. We will continue to work closely with the relevant Government authorities across Britain and Ireland to secure ongoing financial support, reflecting the diversity of the needs of our members. 

As ever, being kept up to date on the challenges your organisation faces will strengthen our ability to act in the most appropriate way to support you.  

Please don’t hesitate to contact the BIAZA office if you would like to discuss anything in further detail.