Statement from Wild Planet Trust

Update 01/08/2024: Since this article was published, we have now launched a fundraising campaign to re-open Croc Swamp. We would like to thank the community for the overwhelming support we have received.

A series of crippling challenges has forced the Trustees of Wild Planet Trust, responsible for the operation of Paignton and Newquay Zoos, to prepare a special rescue package to ensure the future viability of these institutions.

Despite the challenges faced, the Trustees assure that there is no immediate threat to the zoos and emphasise that the welfare and safety of the animals and team remain their top priority. They are committed to stabilising the zoos’ operations, ensuring they continue to be premier attractions in the English Riviera and Cornwall, whilst also advancing Wild Planet Trust’s renowned animal conservation efforts in fulfilling their purpose to help halt species decline.

To achieve this, a series of investments and improvements are planned for both zoos. However, the Trustees have disclosed that the operational costs for both zoos amount to a staggering £1 million per month, necessitating cost-cutting measures, including staff redundancies.

Stephen Kings, Interim Executive Chair of the Trust, stated:

“Unfortunately, the combination of COVID-19, Avian Influenza, and the cost-of-living crisis has resulted in fewer visitors to our zoos over the past few years. It is often forgotten that we are a charity purely funded by our supporters, members and visitors. Therefore this has forced the Trust to cut costs, which inevitably means redundancies. This decision has not been taken lightly. We consider ourselves a family at the zoo, but we have no option but to review our staff and operating costs.”

The Trust still owes over £1 million to the government for a loan taken during the COVID-19 pandemic forced close down. Additionally, Avian Influenza resulted in over £1 million in lost revenue in 2022, and the cost-of-living crisis has further decreased visitor numbers and income.

Mr. Kings emphasised:

“The health and welfare of our animals is our number one priority. As a self funded charity we need the public’s support now more than ever, with our supporters, members, and visitors joining us regularly throughout the rest of the year. We are working specifically to raise capital funding to refurbish the large mammal house, rehouse the baboons, reopen the currently closed Croc Swamp at Paignton, to extend old buildings to provide better accommodation for animals, develop the penguin pool, and remove the overgrown maze at Newquay. We have many other improvement plans in place for future developments so therefore need the support of everyone who loves our zoos.”

The Trust has already engaged with council, business, and tourism leaders to inform them of the current situation and to explore potential partnerships.

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