Welsh Mountain Zoo could re-open in summer says minister – but no firm commitment on when

Visitors attractions such as the Welsh Mountain Zoo could be allowed to re-open in the summer to provide a “morale boost” for the public, a minister has said.

But Welsh Government economy minister Ken Skates stopped short of giving a firm commitment on exactly when

Last night, it was revealed by UK Prime Minister Boristhat safari parks and zoos in England can reopen from next week.

Staff at the Colwyn Bay zoo today provided an update confirming that the decision does not apply to the devolved nations.

They warned the zoo was facing “extreme financial damage” and encouraged people to lobby the Welsh Government to allow it to reopen.

However, Mr Skates said a decision would only be made when it was safe to do so, adding it would be dependent on the coronavirus infection rate being lowered.

He said: “It was only last week the Chester Zoo was informed that it would have to be closed for the foreseeable future.

“That’s what sparked such an outcry from supporters of Chester Zoo (and) what appears to have forced a U-turn this week on that decision.

“It would be more helpful I think to say to zoos that opening their attractions is entirely dependent on infection levels, and that they will be reopened as soon as possible in a safe way, but in a way that does not run the risk of increasing the level of infections.”

Mr Skates also highlighted the level of financial support provides to zoos in Wales during the pandemic.

The Welsh Mountain Zoo alone has received almost £350,000 through the Development Bank of Wales and the Economic Resilience Fund.

He said: “We are determined to do everything we can to help the 13 licensed zoos across Wales.

“I’m pleased to be able to tell the public today that to date, we have been able to make eight offers of financial support or grants available to zoos in Wales – grants that simply would not have been available in England.

“We are also determined to make sure that we support the animal welfare of zoos as well and making sure that our chief veterinary officer and her team of officers are in regular contact with zoos across the length and breadth of Wales.

“There will come a point where zoos can open safely, and I hope that that point is sooner rather than later, but we have to make sure that they can reopen in a safe way.

“That means introducing the guidance that is available to them. It means making sure that the public have confidence to be able to access them.”