Edinburgh Zoo applies for permission to replace koala enclosure with new modern enclosure
Plans have been lodged to demolish an animal enclosure at Edinburgh Zoo and build a new modern energy efficient facility.
The Royal Zoological Society of Scotland has applied for planning permission for the construction of a proposed new koala enclosure and associated external works, at The Gatehouse, Edinburgh Zoo, 134 Corstorphine Road.
The proposals includes the demolition of the existing Koala Enclosure built in the 1970’s. The re-use of this building had been explored but there were significant challenges according to the applicant.
If the plans are approved, the old enclosure will be replaced by a new purpose-built more energy efficient building at the same site in the zoo. The new enclosure would be powered by the zoo’s existing solar meadow.
In the planning documents, the applicant said: "As demonstrated, we are proposing to replace an existing building that no longer meets current energy efficiency and animal welfare standards and presents challenges for safe maintenance.
“Originally designed to house lions, the building is not well suited to the current requirements for koala care. Upgrading the structure to meet contemporary standards would be impractical, making replacement the most effective solution.
“We are proposing a new, efficient building that will provide the koalas with a purpose-built enclosure designed to meet their specific needs, while also being highly energy efficient and powered entirely by the zoo’s existing solar meadow.“
Highlighting issues with the existing koala enclosure at Edinburgh Zoo, The Royal Zoological Society of Scotland added: “The existing structure contains some asbestos and would require significant remediation, along with substantial materials and energy, to bring it up to current standards.
“Even with such works, it would not achieve the same level of performance, safety, or compliance as a new build.
“We would therefore ask that planning permission is provided to demolish the existing Koala Enclosure and replace this with a new fit for purpose facility."
The council’s planning department will now decided upon this application, which has so far received no comments on the online planning portal.
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