Plans for hotel at Chester Zoo approved by council

Plans for a major Grasslands habitat at Chester Zoo have been unanimously approved by Cheshire West and Chester councillors.

Visitors to the zoo will be able to stay overnight in African-themed lodges, allowing guests to wake up to a sunrise overlooking Grasslands and the sight of giraffes.

The development will also include a new restaurant with balcony views of zebras and ostrich across the savannah.

The new zone, which will border the zoo’s existing African Tsavo reserve area for critically endangered Eastern back rhino and rare African painted dogs, is designed to 'connect visitors with nature' and will pay homage to animals' natural habitat.

Jamie Christon, the zoo’s Chief Operating Officer, said:

An open date for the Grasslands project is to be confirmed but zoo spokesperson said teams will now take time to formulate building schedules.