“Bring Back the Swamp!” – Charity’s plea for community support to re-open iconic Paignton Zoo exhibit
Paignton, UK – Due to popular demand, Wild Planet Trust have launched a new fundraising campaign to re-open the hugely popular Crocodile Swamp immersive exhibit to the public.
The Trust announced last week that both Paignton Zoo in Devon and its sister zoo in Newquay were facing financial difficulties, resulting in a number of jobs being cut. In response to the challenges, the charity have received an outpouring of support from the wider community.
For Paignton Zoo, which celebrated its 100th anniversary last year, the rallying cries have helped identify clear areas of focus for its recovery plan.
Stephen Kings, Interim Executive Chair of the Trust, stated:
“The overwhelming messages of support have been truly encouraging in our determination to recover the zoo. We have listened closely to the feedback received, and it is clear that Croc Swamp holds a significant place in the memories of our visitors.”
The Crocodile Swamp walkthrough exhibit, a longstanding favourite amongst visitors, played a vital role in engaging guests about these fascinating animals and the conservation efforts the Trust has been involved in. Sadly, the exhibit closed in 2022 due to extensive repair requirements that were not financially viable at the time.
The ‘Bring Back the Swamp!’ campaign aims to raise funds to go towards the refurbishment costs associated with the revamped Swamp exhibit, with a goal of raising £15,000. The repair work will include the construction of a new entrance ramp, alongside upgrades and modifications to the interior.
The Trust is confident that through this fundraising campaign, and with the continued support of the community, they can successfully ‘Bring Back the Swamp’ for visitors to enjoy year round. Kings continued:
“We call upon our supporters to help us reach our goal. Any amount, no matter the size, will make a huge difference and ensure that Paignton Zoo remains a vital centre for conservation, education, and family enjoyment for generations to come.”
Donations can be made online through Paignton Zoo’s dedicated Just Giving page, as well as on their website: Bring Back The Swamp! • Paignton Zoo
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