Positive visitor feedback helps Blackpool Zoo define its summer operations

Positive visitor feedback has helped Blackpool Zoo define its operations after most remaining restrictions were eased on Monday 19th July.

The attraction is continuing with its online booking policy and limiting the number of visitors on site.

There are no limits to the number of people allowed in the indoor areas but the zoo is recommending that people wear a face covering and respect others when inside.

Some talks and feeds will start again on Monday 26^th July and, where possible, there will be more taking place to allow people to enjoy a fuller experience and make their own personal choices if they wish to attend any busier activities.

All staff are continuing to wear PPE, work behind screens indoors and will socially distance from visitors as well as each other. 

Increased cleaning and the availability of hand sanitisation stations is remaining and visitors will still be encouraged to keep hands, paws, claws and flippers clean at all times.

All indoor and outdoor play areas, with the exception of the Playbarn, the miniature train and additional seasonal activities, are open. Cafes and food stalls, with the exception of the coffee shop in the entrance, have fully reopened and the increased outdoor seating availability will remain.

Since it first closed its doors on March 23rd 2020 the zoo has constantly adapted to innovative ways of welcoming visitors for a really wild, but super safe day out.

Darren Webster, Zoo Director, said: “The last 18 months has been the most challenging period in the zoo’s history but, with the help of a fantastic team, we have continually adapted to ensure we offered a safe and Covid secure day out.

“It has allowed us the opportunity and time to monitor the effects of new ways of working and gather feedback from visitors and staff.

“By continuing with an online booking system, which allows us to keep visitor numbers below our full capacity, we can ensure that people get to see everything they want to see without long waiting times or queuing and people have found this extremely refreshing.

“Increasing our talks and feeds means that visitors who may still feel uncomfortable with larger groups, have the opportunity to choose an activity time they will enjoy.

“The enhanced cleaning and availability of hand sanitisation points will also remain and we hope this helps to further ease any worries.

“After an extremely difficult time, we can’t wait to see people really enjoying themselves again.

“It’s been a long time coming, but we’re looking forward to a great British, Blackpool Summer!

“Once again I would like to thank everyone including visitors and staff, for their support.”

For further information please visit: https://www.blackpoolzoo.org.uk/