Welsh Mountain Zoo receives green light to prepare for reopening – but minister insists closure was not enforced by legislation

The Welsh Mountain Zoo has been given the green light to start preparations to reopen to visitors once more.

However, Economy Minister Ken Skates has insisted that the attraction’s closure was never a requirement under Welsh Government coronavirus legislation.

The zoo in Colwyn Bay shut its doors after lockdown measures were brought in, but the North Wales Minister said specific stipulation relating to zoos did not exist under Welsh laws designed to stop the spread of COVID-19.

Zoos and other outdoor attractions have now been given two weeks’ notice to get ready to open their doors on July 6th.

Mr Skates said they could even open sooner as long as they put appropriate safety measures in place.

Speaking on a media call attended by North.Wales today, he said: “One business that has constantly been in the news is the Welsh Mountain Zoo.

“That was never required to close in Wales because we didn’t have the same regulations as in England.

“They closed and many other attractions as well because of the lockdown and the need to stay at home.

“They’ll now be able to take the opportunity over the next two weeks to be able to plan for a safe reopening.

“If they wish to reopen before then they will be able to, but we would urge them to make sure that they make all full preparations for a safe resumption of activity.”

The chief executive of the zoo previously warned that it was “looking into the abyss” because of lost income.

The move to give attractions notice to reopen was made after the government announced today that non-essential retail businesses would be able to start trading on Monday.

A number of other locations will also be able to reopen as a result of the decision.

Mr Skates said: “Private prayers in places of worship and house viewings are going to be able to take place in vacant properties and house moves will also be able to take place.

“We’re lifting the restrictions on outdoor sports courts, so tennis has probably been the sport that has been most regularly raised with elected members and I imagine with the media.

“No contact or team sports will be allowed so rugby unfortunately still won’t be allowed.

“Marriage and civil partnership ceremonies will be able to take place again though, subject to social distancing.

“And non-professional elite athletes, including Olympic and Paralympic hopefuls will be able to resume training.”