On 16th December 2024, Cumbria Safari Zoo (formerly South Lakes Safari Zoo) announced that it would be closing at the end of this year. Numerous ongoing animal welfare and safety concerns exposed by several organisations for many years such as Freedom for Animals and the Born Free Foundation sealed the fate of this zoo located in Dalton-on-Furness, Cumbria, UK, that has been described as the “worst zoo in the UK”.
Under its previous director, David Gill, nearly 500 animals tragically lost their lives at the zoo in just three years, while severe infrastructure failings led to the heartbreaking death of a keeper. Despite any claimed changes in leadership over the years, animal welfare issues have persisted, as documented in inspections carried out by the local authority, DEFRA, and independent animal protection organisations.
Barrow Borough Council in Dalton-on-Furness had been investigating Safari Zoo Cumbria after the anti-captivity organisation Born Free claimed to have found problems when it investigated the zoo in 2022. The landlord of the zoo premises, Zoo Investment Company (ZIC), also raised concerns about animals’ food and water. On 17th November, Ivor Churcher, a council inspector, undertook an inspection of the zoo together with Dr Matthew Brash, the council’s professional veterinary advisor.
There are no details about the zoo’s plans for the closure, and there is no information about what will happen to the animals they hold captive there. However, campaigners have said they are aware of a holiday cottage site in Tebay, owned by the individuals associated with Cumbria Safari Zoo, and will be keeping a close eye on any unacceptable plans to relocate animals to this site.
Freedom for Animals stated the following: “Freedom for Animals, alongside dedicated local campaigners and other concerned animal protection groups, have tirelessly pushed for the zoo’s closure, and to send the animals to appropriate sanctuaries. Through detailed legal reports, undercover investigations, protests, petitions signed by thousands of people, and an open letter backed by over 33 animal advocates, we urged Westmorland and Furness Council to take decisive action. That is why today, in light of this incredible news, we celebrate!…We are calling on the local authority to now ensure that every animal at the zoo is rehomed to appropriate sanctuaries, where they can receive the care they deserve and live free from suffering and exploitation.”
Sign up to go vegan for the animals in 2025 with Veganuary! https://bit.ly/Veganuary25
