South Lakes Safari Zoo in Dalton-in-Furness has closed to visitors due to a legal dispute between its landlord and the company operating it. The attraction, which has been managed by Cumbria Zoo Company Ltd since 2017, was recently sold to the Zoo Investment Company (ZIC).
ZIC stated that its primary focus is the safety and welfare of the animals, and it has engaged experienced keepers to assist. The company expressed hope that previous staff would join them. Cumbria Police attended the zoo on Monday but described the matter as a civil dispute.
Cumbria Zoo Company Ltd, which took over from founder David Gill, was granted a six-year licence renewal in April. The company said it had taken legal action, asserting no breaches of lease or animal welfare issues. It apologised to visitors for the disruption, which it said was beyond its control.
ZIC does not hold a licence to operate the zoo but plans to liaise with Barrow Borough Council, calling the closure short-lived. The council acknowledged a private dispute but emphasised its role in ensuring animal welfare and public safety standards are met.
The zoo, formerly known as South Lakes Wild Animal Park, has a troubled history, including the death of keeper Sarah McClay, who was mauled by a tiger in 2013.
