Priti welcomes re-opening of Colchester Zoo
The Witham MP, Priti Patel has welcomed the announcement from the Government that zoos can reopen from 15th June 2020. Colchester Zoo, which is located in her Witham constituency, has been closed because of the coronavirus pandemic and Priti has been in contact with the Zoo and made the case to the Government for them to be allowed to reopen, in a safe way.
Priti said: “The announcement from the Government that zoos can re-open is fantastic news and will be widely welcomed. Colchester Zoo is a fantastic attraction for Essex and a centre for research and conservation. The zoo should be commended for the way in which they have developed their plans to re-open in a safe way that respects social distancing. I have been in contact with the zoo and have made representations to the Government, putting forward their plans for a safe re-opening.”
“During the closure we have seen a high level of public support for the zoo. Once it is able to re-open, I hope residents will continue to show their support by visiting, while observing social distancing rules and encouraging others to do so. As well as supporting Colchester Zoo, I have been working with Visit Essex, the Essex Chambers of Commerce and businesses across the County to see how we can support the leisure, tourism and hospitality sector at this time and get more businesses open in a safe and Covid-secure way, to support jobs and the economy.”