THE Isle of Wight Zoo will re-open on Friday 19 June, its directors have confirmed.

It follows a government decision to allow the easing of lockdown, announced by the Prime Minister last night (Wednesday).

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The attraction has been closed due to the coronavirus lockdown and is one of many animal attractions on the Island struggling financially, because it has needed to continue to care for its animals despite losing visitor income.

The zoo, which houses big cats and other animals at Yaverland, near Sandown, says new restrictions will be in place.

  • Numbers will be capped each day so visitors should book online in advance via its website (https://isleofwightzoo.com/)
  • Indoor café closed, food and drinks served from outside kiosks
  • Toilets open
  • Play area shut
  • All animals will be on display except invertebrates and reptiles because the education centre is closed
  • Shop will be shut

The news has been welcomed by Isle of Wight MP Bob Seely.

He said: “This is good news for our local zoo which I know has been struggling through the Covid-19 pandemic. Like many others across the country, our zoo has lost income due to the necessary restrictions forcing closure, yet they have had to keep caring, and paying for, the animals throughout this period.

“I hope that Islanders will get behind the Isle of Wight Zoo and our other animal attractions and help to keep them going until visitors can return. This may mean visiting in person if safe to do so, or it may be through supporting fundraising activity.”

Charlotte Corney, Founder of the The Wildheart Trust which runs the zoo, said: “Our community is breathing a big and overdue sigh of relief today after hearing the news."