Blackpool Zoo is excited this week as its family of Orangutans has returned to their new lavish accommodation after a complete £1million transformation of their former home.
Vicky and her daughters, Cherie and Summer, along with resident male Ramon, have spent 18 months away as the award winning attraction pushes forward with its continuous investment plan.
The grand unveiling will take place on Thursday 24th July where the Mayor of Blackpool, Councillor Valerie Haynes, along with Marketing Lancashire’s Chief Executive, Ruth Connor, will cut the ribbon at 9.45am and guests can see the results of the extensive work before the doors open to the public at 10.00am.
The Blackpool Zoo ape house, which was originally built in the 1970’s, has been tripled in size to make it wider and higher with an upstairs viewing area and extended keeper facilities.
A new, wider external walkway has been developed which leads upstairs to an open plan viewing area, the ceiling is much higher and the new house features more efficient heating and improved lighting.
The kitchen area, which is now located on the first floor, is also much bigger than previously and includes state of the art appliances.
Specialist keepers and management designed the new layout based around the needs of the Orangutans, with enhanced visitor experience in mind.
A new play area for children, which is located outside Orangutan Outlook, also opened in July.
