The government has today (Monday 4 May) launched a £14
million support fund for zoos and aquariums in the latest
step to protect businesses affected by the coronavirus pandemic.
The social distancing guidance, urging people to stay at home and
save lives, has meant that zoos and aquariums have had to close
temporarily for the safety of their staff and customers.
Zoos are undertaking valuable work at this time to ensure that
their animal welfare standards are upheld and the animals’ health
needs continue to be met. This funding will help zoos cover costs
relating to animal keeping such as feed, heating and security.
Animal welfare remains a top priority for this government and
Defra will continue to work with some of the largest zoos to
discuss additional concerns about funding in the longer term.
, Animal Welfare
Minister, said:
“Even in these very difficult times, the government remains
absolutely committed to high standards of animal welfare. We know
that many of our zoos are facing real pressure as a consequence
of coronavirus, and we have made support available to them,
including business rates relief and the business interruption
loan scheme.
“This new Zoo Support Fund is designed to help those that need
additional support to maintain the welfare of their animals. We
are continuing to engage with some of the largest zoos to respond
to their additional specific concerns.”
Establishments covered by the Zoo Licensing Act will be able to
bid for a portion of the £14 million that has been made
available. Individual grant awards will be capped at £100,000.
The measures will support the English industry, in particular
smaller zoos, during this challenging time and follow an
unprecedented package of financial support already announced by
the government.
Chief Secretary to the Treasury,
MP, said:
“Zoos don’t just provide a great family day out, but are vital
for education, protecting endangered species and conservation
work.
“This fund, on top of the existing package of support we’re
offering businesses, will mean that zoos across the country are
helped to get through the coronavirus outbreak.”
Dr Madelon Willemsen, CEO of the British and Irish Association of
Zoos and Aquariums (BIAZA), said:
“BIAZA zoos and aquariums have gone to extraordinary lengths to
mitigate and adapt to the Covid-19 outbreak while maintaining
excellent care for their animals despite the loss of income.
“We are pleased to have worked with Defra in shaping this much
needed crisis support for zoos and aquariums. We continue to work
to ensure those most in need have access to this and other forms
of support.”
There are a number of support schemes already available to zoos,
including business rates relief, the business interruption loan
scheme and the job retention scheme. This is additional to other
available relief such as VAT deferral.
